Bound and Unbound

I’m sure you’ve never heard of her – 
Her name was Judith Scott.
The cards were stacked against her
So she didn’t have a shot.

Both Down’s and deafness were her lot;
Her twin was not affected.
An institution was her home
Where nothing was expected.

When she was in her 40’s though,
Her sister got her out
And only then did she first taste
What life was all about.

A center for disabled folk
Taught art and Judith thrived.
In sculpture using cloth and objects,
Artistry arrived.

Her colorful creations now
In Brooklyn* can be found.
Together they’re displayed and titled
“Bound and” yes, “Unbound.”

No one knew what Judith Scott
Was thinking while creating,
But she’s the proof within us all
Potential might be waiting.

*Brooklyn Museum
Copyright © | Year Posted 2015

Poem

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Johnson Avatar
February 28, 2015 at 4:28 PM
Oh wow, I got chills reading this. The soul within deserves to live. This champions that and so did she. Peace. :) And you wrote this beautifully ilene.
Callus Avatar
February 28, 2015 at 3:38 PM
Very lovely tribute to a woman who missed a lot in life because of Down Syndrome and deafness. Very touching, and it should be an inspiration to others. #7 // paul
Smith Avatar
February 28, 2015 at 10:03 AM
A touching write Ilene...I googled the images...really beautiful...hugs Tim
Allison Avatar
February 27, 2015 at 6:31 PM
what an inspirational story Ilene - thank you for bringing it to our attention:-) Hugs Jan xx
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