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In An Instant, Part Sixteen
I watched Aunt Elaina, proud of her, for finding the courage she needed to speak up for herself. She had every right to teach, a wheelchair didn’t mean she couldn’t, why couldn’t they understand that. Even the parents wanted her in that classroom, if they hadn’t believed that she was capable of teaching, they wouldn’t want her teaching their kids.
I don’t get why sometimes adults have such a hard problem with people who are different. Something horrible happened to my Aunt, but that doesn’t mean she should be punished again, for something she had no control of. Maybe sometimes we are the ones who need to give the Spassky’s in our lives a lesson, a lesson in compassion.
I could tell Aunt Elaina was nervous though, and tired, tired of always having to prove herself. She wants to be a voice for herself and for others who are not able to speak for themselves, or maybe they just don’t have the courage too.
Aunt Elaina was impressive though, and brave, the way she stood up for herself, the way she made sure she was heard. I hope I can find that courage when it’s my turn to speak up for myself, or for anyone else who needs someone to stand up for them.
Mom’s proud of Aunt Elaina too, I know that. She’s not only fighting for what she feels is right, she fights everyday for independence. Yes, she still needs help with a lot, and…
