http://ballastexistenz.autistics.org/?p=477
Once again, Amanda has managed to capture so many of my past thoughts and write them down in a convincing, comprehensive way.
Over the years, I have been accused of exaggerating my symptoms, malingering, making excuses, etc. (As it turned out in the end, it was rather the obvious. I understated my symptoms, worked harder than was healthy, and made excuses for why I just had to destroy myself. ) I believe one of the reasons this is true is my generally cheerful disposition. People don't expect a chronically ill person to look happy or content. Instead, we're supposed to be dour and depressing to be around. Those who don't summarily decide a happy chronically ill person is faking are just as bad, because they decide that "brave smile" is "inspirational".
Happiness is no crime. Enjoying zooming around in my wheelchair isn't unnatural, a sign of faking, or inspirational. Its natural to feel good about traveling quickly and smoothly. Enjoying life is nothing but a good thing, and its a sad thing so many people have to step in and try and dampen that.
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4 comments:
Well said.
WCD
Here here!
What, we are allowed to smile? Can we listen to mp3 player and wave at people while we accelerate down a hill too?
It's amazing what people aren't afraid to tell you, like, "You're not disabled"... :S
It's about the same as telling a cancer patient to "just get over it," except far more socially acceptable.
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