This is a very interesting article, with several points I've definitely ranted on myself. I have a disability placard for my car. Some days I have more energy than others. Some days I am more willing to use my limited energy for certain activities. Some days I am barely able to put any weight on my feet and legs. And those are issues that only have to do with walking. There are disabilities beyond the ability to walk distances comfortably. Because of the frequent leg/foot pain I often use a cane outside the home when walking an uncomfortable distance (which varies) or will be unsure of how far I will be walking. Then I learned that if I am going to require any other accommodations (using a motorized cart at the store, sitting when other people are doing something useful, needing to leave early from a gathering, etc.) I had better "perform" my disability. Usually when I have my cane it is because I need it, but sometimes I'm just so tired of "the look" that I just take my cane along whether I think I'll need it or not, just as an outward sign that there is an actual need. Never mind that sometimes my hands cannot handle the pressure of using the cane, it's unacceptable to not have a visible disability. What about this? What if we let people do what they need to do, we do what we need to do, and we quit making assumptions? We tend to know precious little about even acquaintances' privates lives, never mind strangers. Why assume we know what their needs are based on their appearance, including age, happiness, grocery choices, weight, etc. etc. etc. Realize that being limited in any way (the definition of a DIS-ABILITY) is not something anybody would do for fun. It also takes a great deal of work to deal with the inconveniences. Trust me, you wouldn't do it long term "for fun". Working full time with a normal amount of challenges would be much easier. Please consider these things the next time you see someone who doesn't "look" disabled.
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