According to the neighbour, since the boy isn’t “normal” like her kids and makes noise, his “non retarded body parts” should be donated to science and he should be euthanized.
This happened in Ontario.
Anyone else craving a culture of life? (Le sigh.)
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At one time, what some refer to as the ‘Dark Ages’ (vis a vis ‘Dark Ages’ Rodney Stark might be worth reading in ‘The Triumph of Christianity’ Ch 14 – ‘The Dark Ages and Other Mythical Eras’) , children like the one spoken of here were referred to as the ‘innocents’. Many people come to see these children are a blessing as they help the parent realize life is not about materialism and ‘success’. On the flip side ‘normal’ children can allow parents to be further caught up in materialistic goals as their children ‘succeed’ in academic, athletic or ‘career’ involvements. I recall one father who was grateful as the needs of his special son gave him the daily opportunity to care and love.
I heard this story on the radio today and am happy that Canadians are rallying around this child and his family. The person who wrote the letter chose not to sign it, which says a lot about the author.
David – that’s a really interesting point. Someone else encouraged me to read up on how children were treated during that period. I should get around to reading the book.
Mary – yes, the groundswell of support must such an encouragement for the family. I’ve been touched by it. I can only imagine how they feel.