Emmanuel
Cristina I. Guerrero
BEFORE YOU READ:
1. What is unconditional love? Have you ever observed it between children? If so, describe it.
2. As you read, underline the ways that Emmanuel was integral to the community.
Accepted and Supported at School
When my son was in middle school, he had a friend named Emmanuel. He was born blind, but his disability did not stop him from learning or playing.
At school, his classmates and teacher helped him. In the morning, when his parents dropped him off, his teacher was there to meet him. During the day, his friends helped him go to his classes. They guided him. Emmanuel was always attentive in class and willing to learn. All the students knew about his disability. They helped him without judging him. I think he felt accepted and supported.
Playing and Having Fun at Home
My son and his friends sometimes visited Emmanuel at his house. My son told me that when Emmanuel was at home, he did not need to be guided. He moved around his house as if he could see everything. The kids would play, run, dance, and have fun.
What I Learned from Emmanuel
They were in school for several years until they graduated and each took different paths. Emmanuel and my son taught me something important. They taught me the value of friendship.
Friendship between children can be a form of unconditional love. They can teach us something about community and respect and helping others in need.
AFTER YOU READ:
1. What did the author learn by observing her son’s relationship with Emmanuel?
2. Read the article on p. 24, “That Boy.” What is different and what is similar about these stories?
Cristina I. Guerrero is a student at Ysleta Community Learning Center in El Paso, Texas. She is trying to learn English but it is hard because all her life she has only spoken Spanish. However, she has set her mind to learn it because she has seen how important it is for getting a job or having a conversation with other people.