People with intellectual disabilities possess unique and irreplaceable gifts.

They may not live according to the standards of efficiency that society often values. Many face limitations in what they can do, and those with severe disabilities often require extensive assistance with daily activities such as eating. In some cases, they are unable to act independently and live in ways that differ significantly from others. In societies that place high value on efficiency, strength, and competence, people with intellectual disabilities often find themselves living in the space of “weakness.” Living in such a vulnerable state can be painful. When support is unavailable, when comparisons with others become a source of suffering, or when loneliness and lack of friendship take hold, their anguish may manifest as anger or cries for help.

Assistants at L’Arche Kana no ie—support workers who live alongside people with intellectual disabilities—arrive with the intention of helping those in need. But as they share daily life through meals, work, art, prayer, and celebrations, they are gradually drawn beyond superficial relationships. They are invited into honest, reciprocal connections—where both joy and conflict are experienced as equals. Many people with intellectual disabilities care little about titles or past achievements. Some possess a mysterious insight that gently touches the emotional wounds we carry from childhood. Others delight in small joys. Even when mocked or rejected, they are unafraid to love. In supporting people with disabilities and forming mutual relationships, we come to discover a new value system—one not based on efficiency.

At L’Arche Kananoie, this transformative process—where assistants and visitors alike, meet people with intellectual disabilities and, in doing so, discover their own true selves— is treasured above all. If you spend time with a person with an intellectual disability and become their friend, you may find that this helps you return to your own true self. Engaging with someone without hiding your own vulnerability invites you, little by little, to forgive your own weaknesses. For those of us who do not yet know how to accept our vulnerabilities, the presence of someone who simply stays with us is essential. People with intellectual disabilities teach us that we are enough just as we are—through their very presence and openness.

Interactions at the L’Arche Kana no ie

Current welfare systems still fall short of ensuring that people with severe disabilities can live fully within society. The Inochi Forum, together with L’Arche Kana no ie, envisions and promotes the formation of small, inclusive communities where people with and without intellectual disabilities live together with mutual respect. In each of these communities, people share daily life regardless of ability, welcoming guests, sharing meals, praying, and celebrating together.

Local residents meet people with intellectual disabilities and form friendships that transcend differences.

An inclusive society is one in which everyone is supported to live as their authentic selves. This is because people with intellectual disabilities convey a profound message: “You are enough, just as you are.” Their presence teaches us that our lives are supported by countless connections with other Inochi. Disability and vulnerability are not burdens—they are opportunities to say: “Your presence matters to me.”

The Inochi Forum is also committed to expanding a circle of joy that celebrates the Inochi we all share—strong and fragile alike.

[References]

・L’Arche Kana no ie blog
http://larchekananoie.blog.fc2.com/

・L’Arche International website
https://www.larche.org/

[Action Platform]

Medical and Welfare

[SDGs]