It is so sad that people think this way. Life is life - it is not good or bad, fair or unfair - it just is. Most people wander through it believing in the illusion of control  or oblivious to what is truly important - the connections we make with the others who walk this journey beside us. How sad that many feel the need to narrow their world by limiting their experiences and interactions with only those who share only superficial similarities (race, creed, abilities, etc.). What they will miss! There is only one race : the Human Race, to borrow a cliche.

I can't say how many times (and he's only 3 years old) that I have already heard from people who meet Anthony "Oh, but he'll outgrow it (CP)" or "But he will walk some day" or "Isn't it a shame he can't play like other children". I used to grit my teeth or come back with a caustic remark. Now I just smile and let them know that I am happy with how he is and wouldn't want him to be other than the wonderful little boy he is. Most people look at me with a mixture of shock (that I wouldn't want my son to be "normal") or pity ("poor thing must be in denial"). Then the typical response is " But he's so cute..." like it's a shame for him to be cute AND handicapped... URGHHH. Most people just don't get it (including my Mom).

A few people, though, have smiled with me and UNDERSTOOD. So maybe there's hope after all.  :-)

Yvonne


>>> [log in to unmask] 09/26/00 09:19PM >>>
Dear Magenta, thay said that it (my wheelechair) reminded them of what life
can do. and thay do not want to be reminded of what life can do to a person..
Like putting them in a wheelechair.  Lynn

Magenta Raine wrote:

> Lynn, what specifically did they say offended them about your wheelchair?