Dear Paul,
Hello, my name is Stephen and I am an eighth grade student at a middle school in northern New Jersey. You visited my school on Thursday, October 17, 2002. You told us a very touching story about your handicap and the challenges you have faced in your life. I am going to tell you just how much your story changed the way I feel and look at other people and myself.
I grew up in this town all my life. I was brought up and educated with the same group of kids since kindergarten. I thought I could trust them. But last year during lunch something happened that changed all that. I was sitting down and eating with five kids that I went to my grade school with. Then two of them just started to ask me questions about sex, and kept on asking me if I knew what this is or what that is. I felt very uncomfortable and asked them to stop but they wouldn’t. They both kept on laughing after every time I said that I didn’t know because I really didn’t know and didn’t care to know. I then told my guidance counselor everything and he dealt with them.
You were right. I see what you mean when you talked about the wooden board with the hammer and the nails. There are a lot of holes in my heart. But these are the largest. But what actually happened that hurt me even more was that they never apologized. Those nails from that day are still pounding my heart today and will probably pound my heart for the rest of my life. Everyone has feelings. A lot of people do not see it that way. I most certainly do. I am a very sensitive and caring young person. I especially don’t tolerate that kind of behavior.
I know that you are going to school for meteorology to become a research meteorologist. You told us just how much you loved the weather and that you can’t wait to be one. Nobody should stop you from becoming a research meteorologist. Even if they say you can’t do it. If you stick to it and have your heart set on it, you’ll most definitely be a great meteorologist. Someday I plan on becoming a train engineer even though everyone says that trains are stupid. I don’t care what a couple of people may think, it does not change my opinion and my dream.
I have always had a love for arts and crafts. Even though I am not very good, I still paint and create things because it’s fun and I enjoy doing it. Just like you. I would do anything to have the artistic ability that you have. Your paintings and drawings are outstanding. You have definitely inspired me to keep trying and to never give up.
A person’s handicap certainly does not change the way I see and feel about another person. It is who they are. You are a sensational man with many talents, opportunities, and abilities. You have taught me not to judge someone on their outside looks. What’s inside is important. You taught me not to tease anyone because of what may be left after my apology. You taught me to keep my mind and heart set on the dreams that I make for myself no matter what anyone says. You have caught my attention and my sensitive side.
You have made a dramatic difference in my life. A very good difference. I am now very determined and motivated to keep on doing well in school and in life. I want to thank you for everything you shared and talked about because that is something that I’m never ever going to forget. I would love it if you were to come and talk to us again someday. THANK YOU!
Sincerely,
Stephen
8th Grader
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