Had fun with my interview on The Catholic Guy, Lino Rulli. We talked about the blog and the post Inspiration NOT.
Received emails from folks who do not have Sirius and couldn't listen so I figured I'd do a short post. But getting back to Inspiration NOT...
A lot of discussion has happened about that post - on the blog, off the blog. Sr. Edith's post on the subject made me realize that able bodied people can get it - and certainly listen to what we are saying as people with disabilities. I liked her point about how, in an inclusive world, we could talk about being inspirational in a very different way.
It can sound like a contradiction to say we do not want to be called "inspirational", but as I said on the interview, we certainly do not want that term used when we do ordinary things- just because we are disabled. I believe the "p" word (patronizing) came out of my mouth. In any event, it's what I think when someone tells me I'm courageous to be at the mall in my wheelchair.
Although around Christmas, EVERYONE is courageous to be at the mall.
Lino is a great guy - very funny and he's one of those special folks who like people and enjoy them.
Special. That's another word we need to talk about...
2 comments:
I was all set to enjoy listening to you, but things were hectic around here about then, and I missed it!!
Were you able to find out if there's a podcast version?
As for patronizing, so many people says things that fit this category ... and most of them haven't a clue that it's offensive. Their attitude is so deeply ingrained that they think they are being nice, and end up huffed with YOU because you didn't appreciate their concern. Sometimes the best thing for somebody to do when they are faced with behaving around someone who is "different" it just to keep their mouths SHUT.
I was very proud of a young Mom in the Thrift Store the other day. Her little girl passed me and asked me what that stick was for. I told her I needed it to help make my legs work better, and she was perfectly satisfied. She proceeded to tell her Mom that the lady walked with a stick.
Mom didn't shush her, or in any way make her feel that her question was inappropriate.
That's a great story you shared. I don't know if you read Scott's comment under an earlier post but he suggested just that- answering the child's question directly . As for the show, do not think there will be a podcast version. But thanks for your support - I totally understand things getting hectic!
Post a Comment