Serendipity: James - finding something valuable after it was given
“James is a 23 years old who understands many things.
James requires his medication to be given to him… he enjoys going to the shops and meeting people. He listens to his beloved music whenever he can and has an extensive musical repertoire. James carries a little AM/FM radio, which fits into his left hand and by the use of his thumb he works the dials. The radio is a place where elastic bands reside, which are stretched over his radio and carefully placed so as to not cover the little red light that comes on when the headset is connected. Sometimes there are so many elastic bands on his radio that he cannot work the dials. He often gazes at the little red light and to his joy announces ‘it’s flashing.’
James knows each radio station by just listening and whether it is AM or FM. His radio has been a gateway to a world of music that is part of his everyday life... it is a gateway where music enlivens and entertains... it provides a conduit to the magic of music that stimulates and encourages… it has become a quintessential link between James’s world and reality. The music excites and delights but more than this, it has been responsible for a significant part of his development.
Even as a little boy James has been encouraged to enjoy music. Songs have been made up that have helped James to have fun, laugh or be encouraged to use new words. It is heartening that James can sing many words but has difficulty with pronouncing the same words. Songs have been used to celebrate his ‘wins’, memorable moments and times of achievement. Songs have helped him express emotions and at times, provided opportunities to interact with people.
Music has helped develop James’s concentration and memory. Driving in the car, he listens to taped music. Some songs he sings. James may sing the chorus by himself, sometimes making up the words. He can recognise many songs by just hearing the first few bars. His recognition of classical pieces has impressed people and leaves James feeling pretty good about himself in knowing something that other people did not know. We have sung songs that have helped to develop his self-esteem and confidence. Some of the songs include the lines ‘You say it best when you say nothing at all’ or ‘You only get what you give…’
There have been a few occasions when some people have objected to the sounds of his radio while many others understand. It is understandable that there are times when it may be inappropriate to hear the crackle of a radio… but for James any time is a good time to hear music. His love of music has enabled other people to join his world and through his positive attitude and sharing manner has encouraged other people.
Everybody who has met James has come to know his love of music. His little radio goes everywhere with him. It is more than just a moving celebration of sound. James through his love of music and simple delights has reminded people of life’s basic values and what is really important.”
Lessons learned
Caring for a person is a two way process; the care receiver knows they are loved, the caregiver receives greater understanding.
Understanding a person’s vulnerability has provided a keyhole view into another world; it is a glimpse of a person who needs to be loved and wants to belong.
Humility and grace has provided parents with an understanding of their personal values and helped them make sense of their lives; they understand that humility is a source of learning that strengthens personal values and provides insight.