Special Needs Invitation: Come Touch His Cheek

by Gary ShulmanOct 1, 2013Advocacy, Special Needs Parenting0 comments

"Touch His Cheek" by Gary Shulman bridges the gap between those who see people with special needs as a burden and those who see them as a gift.

Special needs are perceived differently by different people. Those who don’t know any children with special needs may see their conditions or perceived limitations as a burden. But many families who live with those who have special needs see their loved ones as a gift. Today, guest blogger Gary Shulman shares a poem he wrote to draw the two groups closer together. This poem comes with a tissue warning!

Come Touch His Cheek

This child of mine you stare at so,
Please come closer so you will know
Just who my child is and what I see
when those sweet eyes stare back at me
I see no limits to my child’s life
Although I know
It will be filled with strife,
I’m hoping that doors will open each day
I’m praying that kindness
will come his way
You look frightened?
You tremble with fear?
Come, come closer
touch him my dear
Touch his cheek so soft
so sweet
Be one of those people
he needs to meet
Someone who will look
and hopefully see
The skill, the talent
The ability
Please come closer
You don’t have to speak
Come a little closer
Just touch his cheek
And when you do
you will see
this sweet, sweet child
is no different
than you or me

Your Thoughts?

What do you think of Gary’s poem? What potential do you see shining in your child’s eyes? Leave a comment.

Do you like what you see at DifferentDream.com? You can receive more great content by subscribing to the quarterly Different Dream newsletter and signing up for the daily RSS feed delivered to your email inbox. You can sign up for the first in the pop up box and the second at the bottom of this page.

By Gary Shulman

Gary Shulman, MS. Ed. was the Program Director of Social Services, Training Coordinator, and Special Camp Fair Coordinator for Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc. for over 24 years. He recently transitioned from that position to the role of consultant/trainer on a private basis. Gary’s passion is bringing relief to families of children with disabilities as well as to the professionals who support them. His workshops are informational and inspirational. Through an interactive format, participants are taken on a journey of discovery. They learn about programs and services that make life easier when caring for a child with a disability and are motivated to think about their needs, wants, wishes and dreams and to move to realize them.