Lorrae, I was a teacher for many years. In my class one year I had two boys. One had spina bifida, and the other had a repaired hare lip. Both were delightful, intelligent boys.

For a study, the class was required to produce their baptismal photos. Thomas brought out his photos and the children were super-curious about the big blob on his lip.

He looked at me, and I simply said, 'Do you want to answer the question?'

With all the courage in the world he simply explained about what it was, the surgery involved, and that was that. The students never ever referred to it again.

Swimming lesson time came along, and when Matthew took off his clothes the children were once again curious. What was all the scarring on his back? Again, he was ready, he told his story, and that was that.

Also, we had a young women who came to our school. She had cerebral palsy. She was so difficult to understand, but two things she was very determined to set straight was that she was just as smart as they were, but also, that she would much rather they not look away. Instead, at least look at her and say hi.

We also had James at after-school care. When he first arrived he would make eye contact with nobody. He looked so sad and uncomfortable to be there. By the end of the year everyone was James' friend. The students took time to play ball games with him.

Children are not complicated. Adults complicate issues. we can learn so much from the young.

Thanks for writing your story.