Talent Show

Wednesday, January 30th, I attended a talent show put on by the kids/adolescents at Larue Carter Hospital. It was touching and saddening to watch. I appreciated the effort they put forth, identified their courageous attitude for participating, and felt sad because I knew that many of these individuals would grow up to face very difficult lives.

I was amazed at the courage these children showed. They participated in something that most people wouldn't dream of doing. They went out of their comfort zones and sang and danced in front of a large audience. I was proud and hopeful to see what resiliance and dedication these kids had. However, with the good always comes the bad. I realized, watching these kids perform, that many of them would go through life with many problems and would probably suffer due to their mental illness. It was sad to recognize this; I realized at that moment just how little we know about mental disorders. I hope that in their lifetime their will be better, more effective treatments to help them cope in society. Only time will tell.

It was a great experience that brought out positive and negative emotion in me. I was happy to see their strength and dedication but sad to know that many of their lives would be difficult. However, I realize that life is what we make of it and believe that each person truly has the opportunity to be happy; at least that is what keeps me going. The idea that we can all find a place where we can be happy and free is my dream.