Be Inspired By 8-Year-Old Lele - SENIA’s World Changer

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In the true spirit of International Children’s Day today, we'd like to celebrate a child who is bright, curious, and building a more inclusive school community, one classmate at a time.

Meet Shen Xueyue, a grade 2 student at Keystone Academy. His English name is Lele (the Chinese character for ‘joy’), perhaps because he enjoys laughing and is pictured beaming in almost every photograph I see of him. Lele was awarded the SENIA World Changer Award in May this year.

We had the privilege of speaking to Lele to get to know this fine young man.

Hi, I'm Lele. I’m 8 years old, born and living in Beijing. I like playing Go, listening to music, drawing, playing with LEGO, and travelling. I love to laugh but sometimes I can be a bit shy.

I was born with cervical vertebra disease, so my parents have taken me to see orthopedists in many hospitals. I have learned that the problem with my spine is very serious and causes my nerves to be compressed so I have difficulties moving part of my body.

Most orthopedists said that they are helpless when it comes to my disease. We once met a doctor who told us that I could not be treated, that I should have been paralyzed long ago, and I was lucky enough to be able to walk and go to school.

That frustrated us for a long time until one day, we met a doctor who encouraged me by saying that there will always be difficulties in one’s life, but that there must be a way for us to solve them. That day really matters to me and my whole family.

Some may consider me a little bit “different” from them, but what truly are the differences? I think there is no clear definition of “different” - Wearing glasses? Being obese? Or being a leftie? These all seem like “differences” to me. I’ve learned from books and movies that, in fact, everyone has something different from others, but that should not lead them to give up on life. Instead, they are usually more courageous and hardworking because of this “difference”.

So I explain to my classmates why I can’t lift my arms, why the teacher has to help me with some things, and why my mother takes me onto the campus in the morning. No matter what problems I encounter, my mother always explains everything to me to help me face them bravely.

Similarly, I share with my classmates why I have such problems, allowing them to understand. I think just facing difficulties is the best way to overcome them. People are always curious about the unknown. When you learn about something and understand it, you will not fear it anymore. I will probably have a cervical spine surgery this year, which is a great challenge I will face, and I believe I will manage to overcome it.

When I won the SENIA World Changer Award, at first, I simply thought that it was an honor and I was very happy. Later, when I learned more about what it means, I felt that this award symbolizes how special people like myself are recognized and accepted by others; that society cares for us and is encouraging us to live better lives among the community. At first, I didn’t understand the word “change”. But my mother taught me that “change” can mean “to make a contribution”, and that my behavior and attitude towards life can make a difference to others.

There are so many kind people around me, when I’m in trouble, they always encourage me and help me. I am very fortunate that I chose Keystone Academy and thankful that the school has accepted me. The teachers here treat me with great respect and allow me to participate in all study programs and activities, so I can take martial arts and PE classes like other students, and I think I’m doing pretty well!

I would also like to thank my family for their unconditional love and encouragement. My mother often tells me that everyone is an independent individual and must learn to accept themselves as well as the differences of others. Everyone should be welcomed for being different and unique.

I once watched a special performance at school given by a disabled band. Although each of them had different disabilities of varying degrees - some are blind, some are deaf - they can still shine on stage. I even had the chance to go on stage and present them with flowers, which inspired me deeply.

I’d like to tell everyone that we are all unique and you don’t need to compare yourself with others. It’s quite normal and good for people to be different from one another. There is a saying in a text we read recently, “I am who I am as others are who they are.” I think that’s just what I want to express. We should try our best to do what we do, face life with strength, and don't forget to be tolerant and help others.

It is truly uplifting to see how a brave young soul can be such a source of courage and inspiration to others. Thank you Lele for being your amazing self and encouraging us to be the same. We wish you love and kindness on your journey ahead!

Happy Children's Day

Images: Courtesy of Lele's family

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