In honor of the recent worldwide Special Olympics, I want to talk about what the "special" in "special needs" really means. Growing up with my little sister Gabby who has autism has really refined what the word "special" means to me and how I approach those with "special needs" in my own life

What "special" doesn't mean

First I want to talk about what "special" doesn't mean. "Special" does not mean pitiful, sad, weak, or limiting. It does not mean that those with special needs are incapable, unlovable, or dumb. I don't know how many times I have tried to help Gabby do a simple task only to be reminded by her that she is completely capable and independent. There was one time that I tried to help her carry in the groceries since they were fairly heavy, and I wrongfully assumed she couldn't do it. Boy did she prove me wrong! She carried the bags inside, making a big show of it by huffing and puffing to demonstrate just how heavy it was, but did it herself and was so proud of her own accomplishment. Every day I struggle not to just do something for her to make it easier on her, or on me, and I try to remember that "special" shouldn't be a synonym to "can't."

"Special" means gifted

Just because someone with special needs might not have the ability to speak correct English grammar, or be able to move on their own, or do any number of things, does not mean that they cannot do anything at all. Instead, the way I see it, is that often when someone lacks in one part, they make up for it tenfold in another. I know so many kids who are not able to "properly" communicate yet give me and everyone else the most joy in the world when we are around them just by their smiles and personalities. When my sister is happy or excited, she is completely contagious and brings joy to those who don't even know her, and when I'm crying, she might start crying too, and say that she feels sad, just because she is so connected to the emotions of everyone around her.

Special means unique

I often find that once you put the label of special needs on a person, it severely limits them as an individual. You start to see everyone with special needs as a single entity, when in reality, they are all incredibly unique individuals with something special, yes special, to offer the world. A few of my sister's friends who have special needs are completely different from her, not only in their diagnoses but in their personalities and talents and lives. When I need a hug or some empathy I might go to my sister because she knows how to give the best hugs in the world and can immediately bring a smile to my face, but if I want to talk about Abraham Lincoln and his views on cotton plantations I might go and talk to another friend of hers. Each child with special needs is a unique person and has their own story, and it hurts to see them all lumped together, when they are all so different in the best of ways.

Special means spirited

Without a doubt, in every child and adult I have met with special needs there has been an undeniable drive to do something in their lives. For my sister it might be going on the choo choo at the zoo and screaming with excitement or swimming in the pool, well actually the hot tub or "hotty" as Gabby calls it, and trying to get her to go back into the frigid pool to little success. For others it might be running in the 100m dash and getting first place, or even competing in the Special Olympics. Whatever it may be, I find that it is nearly impossible to sway them from their goals.

Special is good

Above all, I want to say that special is good. While there are ups and downs in the lives and the lives of the family and friends of a special needs individual, I think I can speak for the entire special needs community that it is all worth it. It's worth it to see the smile on the child's face, worth it to see them accomplish something they had worked so hard to do, and worth it to see the view from their perspective. I can guarantee that once you meet a special needs individual, your world is changed and you see everything in a brand new, amazing, and special light.