Perspectives

The "Perspectives" section of our website is designed to open dialogue about issues related to children's behavioral health, systems of care, and transformational efforts in the state of Oklahoma.  The perspectives posted here are those of the author only.  We welcome responses and continued dialogue.  Tell us what you think in the "Contact Us" section at the bottom of the page.

Gerri Mullendore recently shared the following poem at the Systems of Care State Team meeting.  She acquired the poem at an advocacy workshop she attended in St. Louis last December at the Federation of Families Annual Conference.  Thanks for sharing this, Gerri.

I Am A Parent

Conni Wells, 1994

I am a parent of a child with special needs.  That is my sole reason for being here. I have no hidden agenda; no secret mission.  My directions are driven by past frustrations and our family’s successes. They create my vision and supply me with energy.

I am a parent of a child with special needs.    I don’t know everything. On some days, I don’t know anything. What I know can’t be found in a book, and you can’t hire someone to teach it to you.  I can’t separate what I am from where I have been.

I am a parent of a child with special needs.  I know what it is like to believe in the impossible, to hope for the unattainable, and have faith that it will all work out.  I share this with other families who get through each day on little more than belief, hopes, and faith.

I am a parent of a child with special needs.  I didn’t ask for this position and I can’t give it back. It belongs to me and is my responsibility, just as my child is my responsibility.

I am a parent of a child with special needs.    I work to prepare other families like mine for the system and I work to prepare the system for other families like mine.  When I fall short of your expectations and when I disappoint you, please remember why I was asked here in the first place.

I am a parent of a child with special needs.    That is my sole reason for being here….

Perspective Archives

Download your PDF copies here

  Muted Voices by Joey Clifton

  I Am a Parent by Conni Wells

Send mail to joey@okfederation.org with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 05/09/07