I watched the TV show 20/20 last night. One of the stories was about people with Williams Syndrome. This syndrome is a genetic disorder. According to the show, people with Williams Syndrome do not have some of the genetic markers that help us develop our sense of caution. The story talks about how dangerous that can be for the person with the disability. that can be a great strain on a parent or care provider. It's also sad for the person with the disability. It's hard for them to develop the social skills needed to be successful in their lives. In other words, they can be so friendly and trusting that it gets annoying.
The show highlighted a camp that helps people with this disorder. The camp helps teach following directions and taking turns. Some of the basic skills needed to function in today's world. But the story also highlighted the bad parts of living with this syndrome. People can easily be taken advantage of. One young lady had her own apartment but a man came into her life and told her to pay his bills. In order to keep his friendship. I never knew all the diagnoses of the people I worked with when I was a paid advocate. I am sure I worked with some people who had this condition. I thought 20/20 did a good job of talking about how the world would be a better place if we were all as friendly as these people were, but if you are too friendly, it is easy to be taken advantage of.
I think that it is easy for anyone who wants to be nice to be taken advantage of. Simply because there are people out there who aren't as nice. In a me first world, if you don't want to be a me first person you need to be very careful. Do we have to use each other in our own pursuits of happiness? I hope not. Take care
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