
05 Dec Mirror Mirror
When we look out of the window of our eyes, we tend to conceptualise the vast differences between people without realising that we’re essentially all the same.
Sure, we have different jobs, social standings, bank accounts, homes, cars, clothes, friends, interests, talents and personal values. Yet we all share the same emotions such as hope, joy, sadness, anger, disappointment, grief, fear, anticipation, happiness, pride, love and to feel understood.
Our concepts of individual differences may become even more pronounced when considering those who present with some form of disability, even with a common issue such a poor vision. How many of us are reluctant to admit that we need to wear glasses? Is this because we hold a prejudice against such a ‘disability’ as it will make us feel or look different? Are our reservations based on needing to appear OK, thereby fostering an innate discrimination to any form of disability?
So how do you imagine someone with a diagnosed disability of many forms is viewed? Do these individuals feel it when they are misunderstood, pitied or feared? Do you think someone who is unable to walk or talk can’t sense how we view them?
Having worked with a vast range of people who have been diagnosed with a disability, I can testify that they are acutely aware of how they are perceived. This is because they naturally share the exact range of emotions that everyone else does. And it hugely influences how they may function around someone who seems unaware of this fact. This is especially so when only the disability is noticed. When feelings are disregarded, it can generate a sense of despair, powerlessness and mistrust of others.
In my new book Rainbow People I share heart-warming stories of people with an intellectually disability, many of whom also experience a physical or psychiatric disability. You’ll meet these people, including Robbie, who was the inspiration for the title of my book. Each offers you the promise to enrich your life.
I also invite you to meet Moira Kelly AO who wrote the forward to Rainbow People. Moria has dedicated her life to the service of others and her visionary outlook is an inspiration to everyone.
This will make a valued Christmas gift and Rainbow People is available here! Profits go to charity.