I some times wonder 
We are all from different walks in life and we all have our own personal perceptions
on what we think our special gifts are, which we are thankful for!!
I feel modesty is a gift, being sensitive to others whom may not be as fortunate as ourselves,
and helping those who struggle with that which we take for granted.
I have always been drawn to wanting to work wiith special needs children and children
who have social and emotinal problems... those who are refugees and learn English as a second
language....
Why...??
I feel for their stuggle for what is needed within our society to survive.
I have mentioned in a previous post way back that I suffer with dyslexia and a form of
dyspraxia so I was drawn to want to help those who like me battled at school!!
How I got into education is a miracle 
But I did!! 
I know at present I am not working... and most of you know the story behind that!!
I am also re-thinking about where it is I want to go and am in a limbo stage... which
is not good 
I sometimes wonder when people presume we need confidence with words, spelling,
when the key factor here is not confidence but a special needs awareness
I do get so angry with the impersonal way education is looked upon
The UK offer so much to special needs education but we frown upon the weaknesses
and make littel of those who leave school with possibly no qualifications...
This is sad indeed but we must show sensitivity and a way of encouraging those
less fortunate then ourself and maybe use our so called gifts to help those
in need to progress with a sensitive and careing heart.
The most precious gift is modesty and the heart to show sensitivity to others.
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wotzizface
- 2009-10-17 @ 14:59:38
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juliepenkova
Pro - http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 15:12:22
Oh .... yes ..... you like spelling to be perfect... sorry mine is not
This post is not personal to you but to the fact that I feel let down by those
who I respected that look on those with reading, and writing dilemmas as shut off
from this world... and that those with the ability to be gifted with these
atributes can shine!!
Well shine away I say.... and enjoy the gift!!
Sorry I am peeved off at present!!
I feel like your avatar....
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Sometimes i think there is too much emphasis placed on 'qualifications and education' and not enough on skills, experience and demeanour. just because someone has every qualification going does NOT mean they will be good at it - for example people with special needs!!
I know its not the same really but my boyfriends uncles and mum are blind and they were all surprised at how i was the first time i met them because they said everyone usually treats them like idiots whereas i didnt.
my friend is amazing with special needs and autistic children but is finding it hard to get a permanent job because shes not a qualified social worker etc etc.
good luck getting out of limbo and deciding what to do!! xx
p.s sorry for the very long comment!-
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 15:30:07
Hi
Thank you for this very valid comment.
I know how superficial most people are regarding those who are not confident
with expressing themselves via literacy, reading, writing the gift of conversing etc, and take for granted how difficult it can be for many people in life and for many reasons and circumstances too, there can be so many other issues involved.
Sadly there are those who feel and have expressed....
"Confidence with words, meanings, spelling, opens up the entire world to us"
How would your uncles and boyfriends mum who are blind feel about that remark!!
It peeeved me mega... I am still fuming... and do agree with everything you
have expressed!!
Thank you
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you are a warm lovely lady with a golden heart!
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 16:13:47
Thank you lovely Davij
My heart is open too much... and I hate when others are so impersonal
and smug!!
I feel let down...
Some times true colours are revealed when one expresses themselves and their gifts!! -
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wotzizface
- 2009-10-17 @ 15:44:56
In defence of myself I think at this stage I should make it clear that I am quite aware that many people have legitimate reasons for using unconventional spelling and grammar. Those are not the people to whom I was referring when I commented on low standards.
I'm sorry if I've offended anyone, but I do think that either our education system is letting us down badly or some people just have no respect for our beautiful language.
Can I come out of the corner and take my hands off my head now?......-
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 16:02:07
I am more sad in heart then offended and it is due to lack of understanding...
It is taken for granted that education is not to blame but parenting, upbringing
and the lack of respect for teaching staff ... who are now social workers as well!!
Abroad do not have these issues... the education standard is higher and that is due
to good parenting and life style... but thats another topic!!
Many people can not spell, or lack confidence with words and meaning because more often then not confidence is not the issue.... it is often in connection with social and emotional dilemma with regards to families, children born with or who develop ASD, ADHD,
Their brain pattern can not comprehend spelling, they may have a pattern of behaviour that blocks their communication skills, and they are often not detected
till much later when the child then developes a complex... knowing they are under acheivers!!
Believe me, you are one of many who think we have a beautiful Language and it
is a gift.... for me it has been a mega dilemma and only other sufferers understand!!
Take your hands off your head now 
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Hi Julie, I think you are an amazingly accomplished woman. I had no idea you suffered from dyslexia and dyspraxia. Teaching special needs children is a very high calling indeed. Society does concentrate on qualifications and ignores things which cannot be quantified, like a better quality of life. You have a wonderful gift to offer to children or adults.
A golden opportunity is waiting.
Liz.-
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 18:13:17
Thank you
I felt very passionate regarding certain ways that people wish to portray
gifts in life.... not me thanks!!
Thats not my way of seeing the world let it be for others if they wish!
I think as you express that which cannot be quantified.... we all see the world
in our own way and that leads as you say to a better quality of life!!
I do hope I find a good job soon
Thank youX -
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Hello Julie....I also did not know about your 'indispositions'....I would never have thought so....wouldn't make any difference to my having a high regard for you; as it is...ALL of us are flawed...many of us are very fortunate that our flaws are not as apparent as those of others...I have always said...most people sooner espy the person with a badly broken leg (or arm) than the person with a broken spirit.....So with 'flaws' - you're lovely....Hugs!
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 17:24:58
I have suffered with dyslexia and a form of dyspraxia all my life...
but never knew that was what was causing me so much drawback within my
education, I was diagnosed with this condition about 10 years ago....
I noticed it within the fact I was seeing other children with the same difficulty
within reception classes and year one, and felt I needed to be tested...
as I recognised the pattern within childrens early phonic's.... to my amazemment
I was told I had severe dyslexia.... and a from of dyspraxia....
I cried when I found out... not because I was sad... but because it explained so much about why I found school so difficult....I still managed to get my GCSES
but not in English Language
It is the hidden flaws that are dismissed and often critisized....
and to make matters worse you would not say to a blind man.... I have the gift of sight.....
No more then you would say to an illiterate person... I have the gift of Literacy!!
We are all aware we have gifts... but I think to have to applaud them is of
no significance... but to utilize them well is a hidden gift and a caring gift!!
This last paragragh Bushka is in reference to why I wrote this post and why
I felt the need too!!
Thank you Bushka.... I am very low at present... and knowing of others gifts
is anothers dilemma... talk about rubbing salt in the wound!!
Thank you for your sensitive words of encouragementXX
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jollyweez
- 2009-10-17 @ 17:08:37
I was born talking! By the time I was three I could say the ABC's and count to a hundred. Only because my brother had just started school! I was lucky, and all I did was copy him.
Then, my Aunt Charlotte had just learned to read. She was in her sixties then.
She was so excited that she put me on her lap, and we learned to read a book together. I still had not started school. By the time I was in the first year of school, I could read and write.
However, when it came to maths, I would cry!
You see, we all have our various talents. If I had to exist by depending on mathematics for a job, I would starve to death. I am talking about Geometry, Algebra and higher math. I was a bookkeeper for 25 years, for my late husband had a construction company in Florida.
But, I would not call that math. That is counting and adding, with the help of a machine!
I think you know there are four ways of learning. I can't remember the formal words for them, but we all have different ways of learning.
I was often terrified of my teachers as a child, for they were downright mean back then.
WWII had just come to an end, and all the teachers, mostly lonely spinsters, had no time for giggling children. Or for those who could not learn. These women had lost brothers, lovers, husbands, uncles, sons...So very many never came back.
These women were depressed, and so was the entire nation of Britian, depressed and poor as hell.
The teachers, male and female, were allowed to 'wack' us! The ruler would do nicely, across one's knuckles. Or a dunce's cap to sit in the corner facing the wall, for all to see. Humiliatiaon for not having the correct answer.
So, even though I was good at reading and writing, I would forget instantly the poem we had been told to learn the day before. I would not remember, because of the fear.
I think it is a lot easier now to learn. At least these 'giants' are not going to 'wack' you. They would be clapped in jail now. I think the children of today are given a lot of leeways. They are helped far more than back then. They are not made fun of, as we would have been. Nor ever called stupid, as we would have been.
Sometimes, a weak child would end-up being beaten-up in the school-yard, and called 'daft.'
So, I think you have all got it easy these days. If you can't learn to spell right, what does it matter? Everybody has got a computer now. You can starve to death, but you will still have access to a computer, even if it is only at the library.
There is an awful lot to help children now, and most of all, the adults seem to care far more than they did back in the 1940' 50' & 60's.
Rejoice!-
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 18:30:12
Thank you Charlotte for taking the time to comment!!
You probably know what triggered this post off!!
I seen your lovely comment on this paticular blog post and that is fine,
and very inspirational in regards to the topic Literacy being a gift!!
But to then bring in confidence is needed with words, spelling, is rubbing
salt in the wound and shows lack of understanding in regards to those who strive so hard to attain those gifts Charlotte...
I would never for example say to you.... I have the gift of health... knowing
others may suffer with their health.
I do know how diplomatic you are and you have a lovely way of putting matters
across that would show no offense or pompousness in regards to any subject.
I am sure if you where portraying a gift... you would choose your words wisely!!
Sorry Charlotte But that post I found offensive to those who are illiterate.
as I said to Bushka you would not say to a blind man... I have the gift of sight.
Ok .... the gift of literacy is amazing... but to bring in spelling and the UK
students leaving school can hardly read nor write... and how aweful it must be...etc
then say.... I have the gift of literacy...
then comment on how education is FREE...
what other condesending comments can we add.... I know free school meals... free after school care..... Free knickers(SORRY)
the attitude was and is very pompous.... it was an offensive and insensitive post... if you do not suffer with this dilemma it can not be comprehended
Yes enjoy the gift with modesty... enjoy all you read!!.... !!
I find this group... is one were you must be wise with your words!!
All the best Charlotte
Love and hugsXX -
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WyrdSeeker
Pro - 2009-10-17 @ 17:36:02
A very thought provoking post. Thank you. Please don't underestimate the wonderful gifts you have and how much love & light you bring to the world. At the end of the day, people should be judged by their deeds and actions, not words.
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-17 @ 17:49:30
How are you!!
Your comment is most profound and is exactly the point!!
Thank youX
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avenscent
- 2009-10-18 @ 12:26:29
I think that is a good thing you want to do. People scorn others for there lack of ability to do things but they themselves have there own failings, nobody is good at every thing and patiance should be shown and kindness to those having difficultys.xx
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-18 @ 16:23:11
Thank you avenscent
I was very disheartend that someone who represents "Hope" on this site
was extreamly insensitive and smug regarding the topic literacy.
To catogorise people who have difficulty with reading and writing as "how aweful
for them".... where is the hope there
No sensitivity was shown in regards to my comments only more smug remarks
to rub salt in the wounds and total lack of care... I am surprised she got
a response to her post... she sure showed her higharchy way of thinking,
talking about "FEE"schooling... how poor she was.... oh please !!
We all have a sad story to tell, I am of a one parent family and on top of that had
severe learning difficulties when at school till around the age of 14, when I became aware
and struggled to achieve what others find easy.... dare I say as she said.. "a gift"..
then the dillution of free schooling makes me laugh... the money comes from others taxes!!
Sorry Avsent... but I am sure you understand... you are very caring!!X
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WildWitch
- 2009-10-18 @ 13:02:57
I know exactly where your coming from. Though i feel confident with words when it comes to numbers i have similar issues with numbers as a dyslexic person would have with words.
I applied years ago to go into teacher training, but due to my maths problems i didnt have the confidence to take the access course. The tutor spoke to me, he couldnt understand why. As much as i tried to explain my problem with numbers. He asked me what books i read, when i gave him a huge list of fave authors he said if i could read those books and understand them then there was no way i had problems and should sail through the course. I know though, the maths bit would fail me. Thats also the reason i didnt go to do my nurse training, something id always wanted to go for since i was a child.
I left school without any qualifications as far as i know, i did sit a few exams but didnt even bother to go back to find out my results.
I have no idea how i ever qualified as a nursery nurse then go on to be a learning mentor, even though out of work now, i look at my qualifications and cant believe they are mine these days.
Phew, long whinge there, sorry.-
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-18 @ 16:39:50
How strange ... you sound like me talking
I went through the same... you see I am also useless at maths
I better laugh or I will cry...
I too could not further my training because of maths qualifications
I do feel people like to categorise us and presume we are failures before
we have set foot out of school!!
Look at Alan Sugar... what a brilliant person to aspire too
He developed his skills over his life time... he certainly is not doomed!!
No more then you or I.
The fact you never went back for the results of your exams ... shows
how free spirited we are when young... look now what you have achieved.
Not sure if you know why I did this post.... but I do feel that when people
make comments they should be backed up by facts....
You and I know that there is no such thing as "FREE" education
The notion that there is such a thing is a monstrous myth....
anything of value must be paid for.... all state funds are forcibly taken from
others taxes... nothing really in this world is free!!
You and I did well
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WildWitch
- 2009-10-18 @ 17:17:54
I dont know much about Alan Sugar.
This may come as a surprise to you, i have a whole folder full of certificates and qualifications now, but got kicked out of school at the age of 14, why, because i refused to wear uniform and dyed my hair. I just wanted to just be me, go to school and learn, but just wanted to be me while i was learning, didnt want to wear navy blue or fit into any shape in the peg box.
Im so rebelious. Its a sad world when people in society are only accepted because they chose to conform, not everyone is able to conform to what the powers that be say is normal. If only the schools and educators would accept this, maybe everyone would stand a fair chance.-
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-18 @ 17:39:47
We would have been good school buddies!!
I was suspended twice....
It was a boy thing or two....
I spoke back to the deputy head and told him what I thought of him
I was 17 at the time.
Being a Roman Catholic School... I was called some names... and I gave some back
I also was shown up on a school trip for sciving off... and I humiliated
the teacher and got him into trouble... as he was not guiding the children
appropriately... I was 15 then!!
My Gob has not changed-
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WildWitch
- 2009-10-19 @ 10:43:33
I hated my school days, just wasnt cut out for them at all.
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juliepenkova
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- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-19 @ 12:11:01
.... lets a moving on ....
Have a good week.... with Hope of good opportunites
coming our way ...X -
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sarangijibt
- 2009-10-19 @ 12:40:48
Helo Julie,
I have seen an Indian movie lately about a boy who had dyslecia, or as we call it legastenia (I don't know if it is the same, but seems to me being in principle so).
The teacher who discovered his disease and helped him to develop his special skills was one who had these problems also in his youth.
So the message was in the end: we need them all, the normal ones and the ones who have special skills but are a bit special.
You have overcome your problems, you are a valuable person with special skills.
You are special.
I like to be your friend.
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-19 @ 15:24:07
Thank you so much Sarangijibt
It is wonderful when specialists discover the root of a problem
and find ways to help... cause and effect....as they say !!
I still have to check my spelling and I am slower at writing and putting
stuff together... It is an on going battle but one I strive to do
and why I like to help children with learning difficulties.
We do all need each other within education...
and if we are unfortunate to not have the basic skills of literacy
we can always further our education after mainstream schooling....
I like being your friend too X
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janetweightreed
- http://www.janetweightreed10.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-20 @ 07:10:50
Good post Julie, and hope that things progress positively with your work situation.
When you least expect it, something just right will turn upx-
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juliepenkova
Pro
- http://juliepenkova.blog.co.uk
- 2009-10-20 @ 11:35:04
Thank you Janet!!
At present they keep offering me work I am not happy with
After what happened I am I confess being very specific and particular in regards
to what I want as I am not a young recruit and want something that will be
of inspiration to me...
Yes something good will turn up I am sure
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That's me told then......