Tolerance

I’ve been trying to lay low on social media but I have been lurking and reading and I have to say, it’s very disheartening overall. One thing I’ve seen a few times in the last week or so hit home with me personally. I thought it would be a relevant train of thought to share here.

When I first began writing here and shared some of my experiences, I received a lot of messages of disbelief regarding the way I was treated at certain times, things people have said to me, and situations that I had to face- not BECAUSE of my disability, but because of certain persons’ reaction to it (in those situations).

It occurred to me then, and again now, that regardless of what side of the coin you are on, you never know what it’s like to be in someone else’s shoes unless you actually walk in them. In my case, even that doesn’t apply, but I think you know what I mean.

I do not claim to understand what it’s like to be discriminated against on the same level as those who are and have been fighting for equal rights for generations but I do know what its like on my own level.

I’ve been disregarded by women who seem to feel like I’m less than them as a person.

I’ve been denied access by bouncers who didn’t think I fit the mold to enter 'their' stupid clubs.

I’ve been laughed at by men who don’t think I’m worthy of their company.

The list could go on and on and there are some people in my shoes that have unfortunately been through much worse. I have no doubt, they will also continue.

All of these things occurred because of who I am on the outside. Every one of those situations could’ve been avoided if people were more open minded, educated, or just exposed to the superficial differences among us.

Friends of mine have been horrified and appalled being with me during these experiences or even hearing about them. I am confident that no one who personally knows me or anyone ‘like me’ would treat anyone else that way because they know what I’ve been through or spent enough time with me to understand more.

When we are exposed to certain prejudices in our own lives, we may not be able to understand fully, but at least a little better what others experience on a regular basis. Tolerance, understanding, and the ability to just listen and hear what others have to say with an open mind seem to be greatly lacking - more so right now.