Written by: Aimesaka Farial Liza K Warjri; Fifth Semester; Media Technologies; 2023.
Namenangsan Warjri, who goes by the name Nangsan, a twenty-year-old boy who was born with Trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome, a genetic condition that affects a person's physical and cognitive growth. Growing up, I always knew that my brother was unique which meant that he experienced life differently than most people. But to me, Nangsan has been much more than his condition, and that only made him more beautiful. Nangsan is not defined by his diagnosis of Down syndrome. He is a son, a brother, a friend, a champion of life and a wonderfully unique individual with a heart full of love and a passion for life. This is a story of Namenangsan, a young man who teaches us to live and love without limitations.
Nangsan is independent in many realms. In other areas of life, he requires more support. He has a unique worldview that has brought so much of beauty and love into our lives. Growing up, I always felt protective over Nangsan I wanted to make sure he felt loved and included, even when others didn't understand him. However, as I grew older, I realized that he was teaching me far more than I could ever teach him. Through his eyes, the world was different. He saw beauty in places and things that I had never considered looking for. He could turn an ordinary day into a magical adventure simply by finding joy in the little things.
When I'm feeling overwhelmed by the stresses of ordinary existence. I recall the tiny things in his daily life that he always appreciated. "WOW" comments he'd receive from his family members. "Look at you, Nangsan, you're very handsome! Your moustache has grown longer. You've finally matured!" or by his smile after getting him a packet or two of his favorite spicy chips. I remember how his perspective on life brought so much joy into my own. And I attempt to view the world through his eyes again, to appreciate all of the beautiful things that can go unnoticed when we aren't looking.
Watching him experience the world in such a unique way taught me the genuine value of differences. It taught me that we do not all have to perceive things the same way in order to appreciate them. Our differences, in fact, can make the world a more intriguing and colorful place.
Though school wasn't always easy for him, for the past year he has always been looking forward to going for his vocational training lessons; he has never wanted to miss out on his classes and gets grumpy when he misses a day. Nangsan's strengths began to shine as a student at Mary Rice Centre. He adores his teachers, who have always been there for him and are willing to assist him without hesitation. He and others wouldn't have become who they are today if it weren't for their unconditional love and support. Their teachers are their guiding lights. Though he struggled with communication at times, he had an undeniable curiosity and love of life. But through it all I saw the beauty in those differences. I saw how Nangsan's unique perspective helped him connect with others in a way that was truly special.
Everyday, as he commuted to school, Nangsan's always excited about the possibilities of new challenges and experiences. He was eager to learn, grow and expand his abilities. Of course, there were obstacles along the way, as there always are. But, he never gave up. Despite his challenges, he truly loves his vocational training course and he loves the sense of pride and satisfaction that came with completing a particular challenging project, his teachers and classmates always saw these accomplishments as a cause for celebration, and made sure to celebrate them.
Despite his positive attitude and things he has accomplished Nangsan's Down syndrome has limited his freedom and independence. One of his greatest desires is to have a job and be able to go out with his friends, but this has proven to be difficult because of his condition. Nangsan has always been vocal about his wish to work. He has a strong work ethic and believes he could contribute to society if given the opportunity. However, to find a job, that accommodates his needs might be difficult. But, for Nangsan, everyday was a new adventure full of opportunities for growth and learning. And every day, he proved that with hard work, dedication and positive attitude, anything is possible.
Nangsan has taught us so much about the value of diversity. He has showed us that the world is a wondrous place when we accept and celebrate the unique gifts that each person brings to it. He reminds us that life is precious and the beauty of our world is in the eye of the beholder. Many people have preconceived notions about what they are capable of achieving, which can lead to them being excluded from various aspects of society. They are viewed as dependents and burdens, incapable of leading independent lives, such individuals are locked out of employment opportunities, which hinder their growth and development. This result in many of them being isolated and living in segregation. Unfortunately, this only makes the situation worse as it exacerbates their sense of helplessness and dependence. Instead of being supported to lead independent lives, they are pushed further into a world that makes them feel inferior, which in turn affects their self esteem and confidence.
Moreover, people with disabilities are often seen as people who can't contribute to the society. The truth is that they are capable of contributing and can participate to society if given the chance. They are just as capable of achieving their goals and aspiration as other individuals, and in some cases, they have even exceeded expectations. As a society, we need to learn to recognize and value these contributions, to create an inclusive environment that celebrates differences.
Stereotypes often overshadow the unique abilities and potential of people with Down syndrome. As the world learns to appreciate the diversity that exists in our society, we need to embrace and celebrate the differences that make each person unique. People with Down syndrome are a vibrant and valuable part of the world we live in. Together, we can dispel the stereotypes and help them to reach their full potential.
Namenangsan may not be like everyone else, but that's what makes him so incredibly special. He has taught me that life is beautiful because of the differences that exists within it. Through my brother's eyes I've learned that the beauty of differences can truly change the way we see the world. Through my brother's eyes, I discovered a new appreciation for the beauty of differences. I learned that being different is not something to be ashamed of, but something to be celebrated and cherished. Nangsan has remained optimistic and hopeful, never letting his condition define or limit his potential. His journey is about much more than his own personal struggles and achievements. It is also a call to action for society to create a more compassionate world where everyone can live a life of dignity, purpose and joy.
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