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Actions speak louder than words. Our values are often demonstrated more by our actions than our words. I learned this week that Ann Parker, daughter of Graham Parker, had a birthday. She turned six years old. Like all six year olds, Ann probably had a birthday wish list. Ann’s birthday wish list did not, however, include gifts for herself. This little girl wanted to do one thing; she wanted people to give donations to Signal Centers, donations that would help the disabled and disadvantaged. Ann was concerned about helping others. At six years old, she understood the value of helping those who could not help themselves, and her act of kindness is a shining example of what we call family values. Her act is a shining example of community values. Signal Centers describes its mission as providing “community-based programs of education and support for children, adults and families with physical, educational, and socioeconomic challenges to promote their independence and achievement of full potential.” Signal Center describes its vision as envisioning “a world in which disabilities and disadvantages are seen as opportunities rather than obstacles and where the abundance of opportunities for these individuals leads to unconditional acceptance.” Ann, at the age of six, obviously decided she wants to live in a world where disabilities are seen as opportunities, and by asking for donations for Signal Centers she is already taking part in ensuring that the donations she sought lead to unconditional acceptance of those who are less fortunate than her. How hard was it for Graham's daughter to seek donations to help others—making her birthday gift a gift to those in need? She probably never gave it a second thought, never thinking of herself-this wonderful six-year-old only thought about how she could help others seek the opportunities we take for granted. Ann’s heart is in the right place. Ann Parker has values—she has the values of love, and of giving. When Ann grows up, she will keep these values with her—seeking to help others live in a world where disabilities and disadvantages are opportunities, living in a world where these opportunities give those in need unconditional acceptance. Happy Birthday Ann, thank you for your generosity and giving; thank you for your values— It is a great gift to us all.
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