
In the South American country of Chile, there is a group named “Huellas de Inclusión (“footprints of inclusion”)” which provides counseling services and organizes assistance programs for children with mental disabilities and their parents. Together with Karina Graciela Guerrero Valderrama, a special education teacher, the parents have set up a small performing group. Through different kinds of performances and constant practice, it nurtures the self-confidence and sense of life of the children. This is no simple matter; they must overcome their own disability and lack of co-ordination. But their determination drives them to complete the performance – they are happy and not tired.

The children are not professional. But their will to live drives them to practice regularly and succeed in completing public performances. They have greatly moved the audiences, who see the spirit of the children in not giving up on life and their future.

On July 7, the Tzu Chi volunteers went to the Colegio Palmares Oriente in Quilicura. There were painting on ceramic plates, hand-made woolen clothes, water colors and a performance on stage. A volunteer of the organization said: “before, we did not have such good musical equipment. Its donation by Tzu chi volunteers has made everyone very happy. This is the first performance in which it has been used.”
The children came on stage. One moment their hair waved, another they were giving flying kisses; they were wearing hand-made woolen costumes. They received the warm applause of the audience. Karina said: “today’s activities give hope to our children that they can show their ability and fulfill their potential. At the same time, it is a model for other foundations and groups.”

After the performance, the children saw the happiness on the faces of the Tzu Chi volunteers. While they could not express in words their gratitude, both sides felt the warmth of the other. They wanted to thank them for the gift of the musical equipment, enabling them to complete their performance smoothly. The volunteers hope that the children can continue with their rehearsals and performances, enabling them to show their courage and sense of life, and move so many people.
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