Having stayed with a blind relative sometimes I think blind people struggle so much to prove that others must be right and they must be wrong. Defending, explaining, and justifying their choices as a blind person is something they always do more often. Because some of us don’t know what it’s like to walk in their shoes… I wish we wouldn’t question why they walk the way they do. Here are 4 things blind people shouldn’t have to justify to anyone.
When they don’t want to use our white cane.
Perhaps people find themselves in a place that is familiar and safe, and they don’t want to use their cane. Maybe they find themselves in a situation where they are feeling a bit self-conscious about using their cane, so they don’t. They can, and they will let us know that they feel more comfortable using them as a sighted guide. Their decision doesn’t have to win anyone’s approval. After all, it’s their white cane, not ours, and they will use it of their own volition.
What words they use to describe their vision loss.
If someone asked about their vision, it is their choice on how they should respond to that. I have heard people say things like bad eyesight, don’t see very well, vision disability, visually impaired, and vision impairment partially sighted low vision. They may even use the “B word” or legally blind. Some folks don’t like the “B word”, and prefer not to use it. Others may be okay with it and use it more freely.
Why they need-blind friendships.
Their blind family and friends are never going to truly understand their down days or daily difficulties. How could they? They’re not blind and they would never want them to be. Creating blind friendships through social media, in person, or over the phone, can build a wonderful support network for them. They like to know they are not alone and that someone else can relate to their troubles and triumphs.