Growth

            Visiting AFI was exceptionally more enjoying than I expected, and more edifying. When we first arrived, I was still a little apprehensive. It was not until we got to hang out with the clients that my apprehension peaked and dissipated. As I first walked in to the lunchroom to find a spot to sit, I really didn’t know where to turn. I timidly surveyed my surroundings until I made eye contact with a female client. She excitedly pulled a chair out and beckoned for me to sit next to her saying, “Here. Come here. You. Sit here. This seat is for you.” Obviously I sat next to her. She excitedly shook my hand, introduced herself, and asked my name. The three other clients that were sitting with us watched in rapt attention as she carried the conversation on her back. I had no need to fear a lull in the chat as she was always full of questions and answers.

            After a few minutes, Amanda sat down with us, and our friend fired off the same slew of questions. Occasionally the client sitting next to me would look at me and rolls his eyes sarcastically and say, “Man, these girls can really talk, huh?” I acted like an old friend talking smack and said with a laugh, “Tell me about it!”

            I’ve always said leaving your comfort zone leads to growth and improvement. I definitely grew in that I will no longer feel any kind of apprehension towards the mentally handicapped. They love and want to be loved just like anyone else. Probably moreso. Actually, I imagine many of them have an understanding of love that I would be jealous of.

            The play might have slightly influenced my experienced of the trip a little, but the trip greatly influenced my experience of the play. I sympathize more with Jack. I find the boys even more innocent and enchanting. I can hear them speaking their lines much more clearly. My heart really goes out to them more, and the humor I saw in the scenes felt much more justified. Almost as if I understand them more, and I know that I’m not judging them, but I’m enjoying the unintentional wit they provide.

            I’ve grown, and that’s always my goal. I’m excited to see how my growth if manifested in other areas of my life, too.