Everyone knew that I was ‘different’ – everyone except for me.
My family tried very hard to take the concept of “different” out of my understanding. Others took great pride in pointing out my disability to my parents and siblings – and to me. Some, believe it or not, thought that they were being helpful. Some just intended to be funny; others meant to be cruel.
All I know is how it made me feel.
I learned early that I would have to toughen up if I was going to be able to deal with being ‘different’. After all, I was reminded of my disability every day. Sometimes it was intentional and sometimes it was accidental – but I was reminded nonetheless.
I remember riding in an elevator with a father and his young son. As I left the elevator, I heard the child ask his father, “Why does that man walk like that?” His father quickly and softly replied, “Don’t ask questions”.
Why not? What is the fear? The fear of offending? Walk around me, ignore me or laugh at me – will I not be offended then? Is it the fear of embarrassment? Whose embarrassment? Yours or mine?
I wish that everyone had the self-assuredness of that young boy; I wish they had the courage to ask their nonjudgmental questions so that they could come to an understanding to satisfy their curiosity. I wish everyone would simply accept me just as I am.
Yes, I am different. But so are you. We need to be! Imagine how boring life would be if we had 8.3 billion copies of the same person.
We all need to learn ways to bring people together, not force people apart.
Unity in Diversity should be celebrated every day. On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, make it a point to ask someone to share a part of their story with you – and yours with them.
You may be surprised at what you find out – about them, or about yourself!
Michael Freeman is the Union of National Employees’ Regional Representative for Human Rights in Ontario.