An exceptional person
Editor,

This letter is in response to Dr. John W. Smith's letter "A normal person," Sept. 23. After reading the first paragraph of Dr. Smith's letter, in which he explains how he tries to educate the community about blindness, I came across this sentence: "I must believe that my efforts are not in vain."

Immediately I thought to myself, "They aren't." I was saddened by Dr. Smith's experience at the Department of Motor Vehicles, but I can personally assure him that his efforts are far from in vain.

This is because I had Dr. Smith for INCO 220 a couple of years ago.

I have to admit I was a little shocked, and very curious, when Dr. Smith walked into class on the first day. I had never really known any blind people before, much less had one for a professor.

By the end of the quarter, however, I had been permanently convinced that blind people are capable of equalling, and often exceeding, anything that people with sight can do. Dr. Smith was one of the best professors I've ever had here at OU - and I'm a senior, so I've had quite a few.

His enthusiasm and kindness were infectious.

Unfortunately, there will always be people like those Dr. Smith encountered at the DMV who are victims of their own ignorance, and I pity them because they are missing out on really getting to know someone special like Dr. Smith.

But as far as I'm concerned, he is an incredible role model to everyone everywhere in his determination and bravery in the face of discrimination. He has given me an education that I will never forget.

Liz Crotty
ec118194@oak.cats.ohiou.edu