Participating in the Circle of Friends community service program really enhanced my life.

Not everybody hears Jessica when she speaks, but I do. When I hear "lala" I know she's calling my name and when I hear "peetha toosay" I know she's reminding me to meet her in the cafeteria for lunch on Tuesdays. Once a week I was honored to eat lunch with my friend Jessica. We'd laugh together, just like all the other laughing tables that sit together at lunch. Two years of "Circle of Friends" program gave me the opportunity to befriend so many peers on campus that I wouldn't have otherwise sought out.

     I used to be annoyed by my peers' response to Jessica and the other "challenged" kids in the special needs program at SAMOHI (Santa Monica High School). I now know that I was especially fortunate to have something that many of the other high school kids didn't even know existed. When I wasn't even looking for it, I found a jewel that sparkles inside me wherever I go. Jessica has taught me everything that I need, and that is patience and compassion. Instead of feeling annoyed when other kids laugh at her as she walks by them or gets frustrated when she's trying to explain something to them, I feel compassion for their lack of understanding, validating that their ignorance leads only to fear and nervous laughter. When they laugh AT her, Jessica and I both laugh with each other, sharing a special bond that no one can bully or pull apart.

            When my classmates see me having fun with Jessica, they became less afraid to interact themselves. I am grateful for the influence that our relationship has had on others, but most of all, I am thankful that we still have each other, long after my transfer to another high school. I continue to take her out to lunch or to bring her home just to pet my dog or smile at each other. If your college hosts a similar program on campus, I will seek it out, and if not, I will create one.

by Ella H.