I am blind. This is, in a sense, an advantage. Not because it means I’m more capable in some way than sighted people. Of course, I could be more capable than some sighted people in some ways, but that’s not due to my blindness.
I say my blindness is an advantage in that it allows me an easy explanation for my challenges when I don’t want to elaborate. Other blind people – those in the “competent blind adult” community – may think I’m setting a bad example. Honestly though, I don’t care.
I know blindness shouldn’t bind me. It shouldn’t keep me from achieving my goals. But neither should autism. Or mild cerebral palsy. Or any of my other disabilities alone.
But I don’t want to have to pull my every disability apart to see how it does or does not – or should or should not – limit me. I am not blindness, autism, cerebral palsy or whatnot. And yes, I know I’m more dependent than other people with my diagnoses. But I am not my diagnoses. I am myself and I lead a meaningful life as much as I can. And that includes not letting other people define what that is.
Written for Three Things Challenge #MM75. I didn’t know how to fit in the word “abound” and actually had to look up its definition to be sure I would, if using it, use it correctly.
A Multitude of Musings 
This is brilliant Astrid! We are more than what is seen on the outside.
Books and covers and all that. Thank you so much for joining in and putting across such an important message!
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Aw, thanks so much for your kind reply! This means a lot.
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🙂 my pleasure Astrid.
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Yes you are so more then a condition, you are you and if people have a problem with you well that’s their problem not yours
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Thanks a bunch for validating me with your comment!
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While labels don’t define a person, I can see how it would be easier to not go into the complex person you are (we all are) and just let people see your blindness. My kids have various label,s and I found them useful in getting them help, but that’s all.
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Yes, that makes sense, you using your kids’ labels mostly for the purpose of getting them services.
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A good attitude to have Astrid, our disabilities should never define us!
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That wasn’t really my point, but you’re right. Thanks for commenting.
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I really like this post and what you had to say. We adapt and live the best life we can … instead of letting our diagnosis rule our lives. Well said, Astrid!
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Thank you! Your point about us living the best life we can, is truly validating.
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You’re welcome.
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