To be realistic, those of us handicapped in any form are a section of society just the same as those with blonde hair are a section of society. The important thing is that we are allowed to be a productive part of society unlike days of old when so many were shut away in institutions.
So much depends on how handicapped someone is on how much they can give, the community Peter mentions sounds ideal for those with a mental handicap.
Part of the problem with the average person is that they do not really know the mentally challenged unless they live next door or are in the family.
We get a lot coming into the shop with their carers, usually to buy CDs or videos, all have their 'little ways' which we get used to, all enjoy their outings and a chat if we can. I am always heartened by how tolerant the other customers are, which shows how society is slowly changing, thank goodness.
