NO MAN IS AN ISLAND

 Connections. Conversation. Every human being needs to feel connected. Included. Those of us with disabilities are no different. In fact, it is even more important for us. 

No matter how hard we may try. We will always be on the outside looking in screaming, "see me," but many people won't hear us. 

We do not crave attention We just do not want to be overlooked or left out. We are proud of our accomplishments. We want to share our successes with everyone.

People with disabilities fight to be included. We fight to have our voices heard every day. We.need to know that we are viewed as more than our disability.

It sucks being needy. Dependant. Our need for validation, reassurance that we are good enough stems from a lifetime of being told. negative things about ourselves. Tell us positive things. That would  be much more beneficial  to us 

For many of us, the internet connects us to the outside world. Our friends, family. Since COVID we have relied on social media more than ever. When service is interrupted we become depressed We may not know how to pass the time. Computer technology is what many of us rely on as an outlet for our creativity.

People do not want to really get to know us. It takes a little extra time and effort. If we talk about the things that are important to us too often we turn people off. They become tired of hearing our stories

When we meet someone who is willing to look past our disability something as mundane as a trip to the supermarket can be a blast.

Change is hard on us. Change is a fact of life. We  may need assistance in dealing with major life changes/

People are not required to have conversations. with us. Becoming too attached to someone is not a good idea. When the person moves on we are the ones that are hurt.

What's the best thing you can do for those of us with disabilities? Treat us as equals. Talk to us. Connect with us.

No man is an island. People need people.