Are You Blind or What?
That's a question I've heard countless times over the years. It's a great question because it opens up a conversation about the nature of blindness and how it affects people differently. For some, blindness is seen as a spectrum, while others view it strictly as a disability. Personally, I don't consider myself disabled.
Navigating Employment
In my 33 years, I've learned that disclosing my blindness upfront on job applications often leads to no callbacks. I choose not to mention my visual impairment on my resume. Instead, I let my potential employers discover it during the interview. This strategy stems from a belief that our world is still very discriminatory. As soon as you mention a disability, you're often treated differently or looked at in a different light.
Facing Curiosity
In both my online presence and daily interactions, if I don't mention my blindness within the first minute, people inevitably ask. Questions like, "What's up with your eyes, bro?" or "Are you messed up?" are common. When I explain that I'm blind, the reaction is usually, "Oh, okay, I knew something was up but wasn't sure." It's challenging to navigate these conversations because people often have misconceptions about what it means to be blind.
The Spectrum of Blindness
Blindness, for me, isn't a disability. I can walk, talk, and do everything else—except see very well. This doesn't make me disabled; it simply means I experience the world differently. There are people who can see perfectly but live with constant pain. Are they disabled? It's a complicated question that highlights how subjective the concept of disability can be.
Living My Life
Despite my visual impairment, I live a normal life. I enjoy my coffee, interact with friends, and pursue my passions. The only difference between me and a sighted person is my limited vision. This doesn't warrant special treatment or government funding in my view, as I'm fully capable of managing my life.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the labels and perceptions about disabilities can be frustrating and confusing. They often don't capture the full reality of an individual's capabilities and experiences. So, whether you're visually impaired or not, remember that everyone's journey is unique.
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