Did you ever stop to wonder,
If one day it could be you;
Who cannot access buildings,
Do things you need to do?

For accidents or illness,
May strike at any time;
And introduce new challenges,
Into a life sublime.

So, when you see a person,
With a challenge at the fore;
Consider your own wishes,
Were the challenge at 'your' door.

With your imagination,
Take the time to muse;
How  you would cope with,
"walking in the other person's shoes".

 Some challenges are welcome,
While some are not by choice;
Some challenges are painful,
Yet, in others we rejoice.

Every challenge we must face,
Is one from which we learn;
Another's understanding,
Is the gift for which we yearn.

So, approach each individual,
From the very start;
With  knowing that the person,
Has a living, beating heart.

For with a heart comes feelings,
Not so unlike yours;
With a little understanding,
We can all help open doors.

© Peta Crane
  2003