PAX LUMINA - November 2021

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This issue of Pax Lumina focuses on the world of the differently-abled. When this topic was mentioned, there were some eyebrows raised, politically correct ones for sure. The world of the differently-abled, according to those eyebrows, conjures up an image of a different, separate world for some of us who are less fortunate than those “abled” inhabiting the rest of the society. We agree; but also disagree. Yes, discrimination of all forms reinforces stereotypes that perpetuate further discrimination, exploitation and cruelty. But, on the other hand, if we do not talk straight and hide behind politically correct and diplomatically acceptable gibberish, the truth will be hidden from those who can face the truth and act for change. This magazine addresses such people. When we looked at what we thought to be the world of the differently-abled certain things became clear. There is no clear boundary between the world of the differently-abled and the world of the so-called abled. It is all mixed-up and fuzzy. There is only one world of people, all differently-abled in different ways. Of course, there are those who care and those who have yet to learn to care. While the former does their best to share their abilities with those who need them, the latter just talks and talks. But all of us, I am sure, will agree that one of the biggest problems facing the world today is pollution. It is noise pollution. Instead, we need action. And we feature some of those who have reached out to their neighbours on this planet with hope, dream and empathy. It is also true that the differently-abled do not form an undifferentiated mass of humans waiting for our sympathy. They too have a right to live a life of fulfilment and honour here. Many people do not even understand what autism is.