REVEL IN THE LIGHT

A group of families who have sons and daughters with disabilities decided to have the video, Revel in the Light, produced in 2004. "The video was completed in March 2005 by Deiren Masterson (MasterWorks Productions)." They wanted a short video that could be used to inspire people, teach them a different way of looking at things and to, above all else, help society see their sons and daughters as the treasures that they are. These parents feel that, not only are their sons and daughters gifted, but that they can actually lead the world to a more compassionate, collaborative and loving way of living. The Zulu term, “Ubuntu” which is defined loosely as “my humanity is inextricably bound up in your humanity” resonates with them.

Revel in the Light is meant to teach, transform and to invite the audience to action in changing their communities to ensure that all are welcomed and supported to be active participating citizens. It is a call for justice for those who have been traditionally left out of the mainstream of society. In the 8 months since its release, the video has had an impact on government officials at all levels, including the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (shown in Japan), the UN organization for Middle Eastern and North African countries (shown in Jordan), the United Nations committee on developing a convention on the rights of the disabled (shown in New York City). It has also reached the offices of Federal Ministers such as Ken Dryden from Social Development as well as the federal office for human rights. Politicians and bureaucrats at the local level have also viewed, Revel in the Light.

It is being shown throughout school boards and is being used for the training of all principals and vice principals throughout all catholic school boards in Ontario. Individual teachers have purchased it to assist their students in seeing others through a lens of giftedness.

Faith communities have also used it to help their members realize that including people with disabilities in parish life is not about charity but rather the recognition that each has something to contribute. The chairperson of Catholic Charities has a copy and hopes to find the opportunity for the Cardinal to view it.

Agencies that support individuals with disabilities are using Revel in the Light as a training/formation tool for their staff. Universities are showing it to students who are preparing to be educators, pastors, health professionals etc.
Individuals are purchasing it to, either keep for themselves or to give to a friend who they know will appreciate the message and will be uplifted. Parents feel validated when they watch the video and often purchase one for their own use.
Public libraries are buying them and the National Film Board has shown interest in listing it.

Revel in the Light has also been shown in corporate offices and board rooms of top banking institutions.

Whenever it is shown, whether it be amongst parents or in a corporate office, it gets a very emotional and electrified response. Rebecca and her family believe that it is because the world is ready for a paradigm shift in the world order. People want a more compassionate, supportive and loving world that is much slower than the present one. It is hard for them to imagine what it could look like. Rebecca’s story helps them get a glimpse of what can happen and has happened in an individual’s life when a community, including the schools, churches, places of recreation and neighbours dare to believe that there is a different way of doing things. They have realized that communities are so much richer when all include their gifts. Because Rebecca’s needs are considerable, she helps people imagine the “unimaginable” through her story. It is not a story about supports and services, although these are necessary. It is about relationships, friendships, family and ordinary happenings in the community. In many ways, Rebecca lives a very ordinary life but in our society that is still considered extraordinary.

The title Revel in the Light has many different levels of meaning but perhaps the most important is that it is an invitation to all those who view it to rethink their lives, looking at values and previous assumptions and to make changes so that they too can Revel in the Light of those who are already in our communities.

Questions:

1. What are your feelings and thoughts after having watched Revel in the Light?
2. Why does the video make you feel this way?
3. What obstacles are in the way for many people to experience the kind of life that Rebecca has led?
4. What are the building blocks/components necessary for individuals to live a full life as contributing citizens in the community?
5. What assumptions does society have which act as obstacles to individuals living a full life?
6. What assumptions do you have which act as obstacles?
7. What change can you make in the way you do things that will enable you to “revel in the light” of someone you may or may not already know?
8. What role do you play in your community which will enable you to help others see this different way of thinking?
9. How can you use your role to open the door to someone who wants to share their gifts?