Dorothy Smith talks about the Standpoint Approach/Theory. How we become a part of the group, but we are not being completely objective. We are able to see things happen from with-in with a feeling of connection and relation, even with a stranger. Our experience is hands on while our perspective is just looking. When we were talking about this in class I could not help but think of how children help and become friends with other children that have a mental disability. I had a mentally disabled friend when I was in elementary school and now that I work in an elementary school, I see many other children helping and caring for their friend(s) with a mental disability.
At a young age children can see when another child is having problems, or needs help and they will go help them. In my case I was friends with a girl who is autistic, I would become her "buddy" in gym class soon I somewhat became a part of their group. I was allowed to come into the classroom when they were doing activities and I could help out. I was able to interact and see what life was like in their eyes. I was an experience I wouldn't trade for the world.
I really like how you use children as the example. There are only two type of honest people in this world, drunk people and children. Children's views on things has not yet been tinted by all the negativity in the world. I think children have more of a subjective view because of this. It's hard to believe that we were in their shoes once, and all of a sudden forget how to be nice to one another.
ReplyDeleteIf only there were more heartwarming people like you in this world. Many individuals stay clear of outside extremities when it comes to disabled indivduals, Citizens especially in the U.S are afraid of problems and other peoples problems. This is sad but true! I too come close with any individual no matter what their problems are. I had a friend in high school who every one thought was a creep and weird but I touched her heart and many others saw that. We still keep in contact and I still believe I have a big impact on her life.
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