Future Reflections

The National Federation of the Blind Magazine for Parents and Teachers of Blind Children

Vol. 4, No. 3 July- Sept 1985

Barbara Cheadle, Editor

ISSN-0883-3419

For more information about blindness and children contact:
National Organization of Parents of Blind Children
1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 659-9314, ext. 2360
www.nfb.org/nopbc • [email protected] • [email protected]

Dear Readers:

The time has come again for our special issue of FUTURE REFLECTIONS. Every year, about this time, we mail a selected collection of NFB literature about blindness. These excellent speeches and articles have dealt with all aspects of blindness.

This year, we have some more very exciting articles on issues that are extremely important to blind children and their parents. We have:

--Blindness: The Pattern of Freedom
by Dr. Kenneth Jernigan

--So What About Independent Travel for the Blind
by Steve Benson

--The Blind in Medical Professions
by Ramona Walhof

--Suggestions for the Blind Cook
by Ruth Schroeder and Doris Willoughby

In his 1985 Banquet speech, "Blindness: The Pattern of Freedom", Dr. Kenneth Jernigan outlines, with clarity, power, and perception the obstacles to freedom encountered by the blind. It is worth reading, and rereading for the insights and inspiration it offers.

"So What About Independent Travel for the Blind", is one of the best articles about cane travel you will ever read. It is sensible, positive, and quickly dispels fears and myths about independent travel for the blind. Author Steve Benson states that, "Skills of independent mobility are neither obscure nor terribly complicated. Rather, they are known, available, and acquirable." He then proceeds to demonstrate the truth of that statement with specific suggestions and information.

"The Blind in Medical Professions" is an important article in at least two ways. First, it is a source of information and encouragement to young blind men and women who would like careers in this field and second, it demonstrates again the importance of attitudes and expectations.

The last article in the collection, "Suggestions for the Blind Cook", was made available to readers upon request several years ago. Since then, the article has been revised and update The alternative techniques outlined are an invaluable aid to parents as they teach and encourage their blind son or daughter to be independent in the kitchen.