ANDREA ~ I think this fellow is genuinely trying to reach out to you with friendship; albeit, he sounds a bit analytical in the way he talks (esp politically). Perhaps he is a professional academic (possibly a University Professor); but, don't let that stop you from conversing with him, at least to see if you like them (him and his wife).
Some people are indeed intimidated by disabled persons; they feel a little awkward at first. Others just walk right up and start talking to you like they've known you all your life; probably becuz they feel more comfortable with you. I have worked in the social field all my life (Community Support Worker); educated in the Social Worker field as well.
I was born with Spina Bifeda but had corrective surgeries at four and eleven years old. Although I struggled, I was able to walk despite what the experts expected (they thought I wouldn't); I had an idelible Irish Spirit that kept me going (very fiesty, still today). I wanted to walk like my brothers; and I did.
As I got older, my limitations became more pronounced; a lot of pain issues and difficulty walking as the years went on; so naturally, I have great compassion for those who have similar difficulties as me.
I worked in my first Nursing Home at twelve, where there were elderly and many disabled persons, including people with MS, CP, and other health issues. I have also worked with persons with Alzheimers, many types of mental disorders, developmental and learning problems, and so on; therefore, I am very comfortable with all of them.
Truthfully, not everyone is; so I think that is what this fellow was trying to tell you. When I was in college, it was obvious that most of the other students didn't understand what people with handicaps and mental disorders were like becuz (as this fellow explained), they hadn't been exposed to them in their formative years (childhood education and experience).
Today, we are really trying to educate all children together and esp here in Canada, disabled persons are out in the mainstream of our society; this has been done on purpose. Our government is trying to get them out of nursing homes and reclusive institutions and into the general public; and they have succeeded very well. They have been closing the institutions, and limiting the beds available to nursing home facilities to only very ill, long-term care patients.
They have released mental health patients into their communities with the support of health care providers, social workers, and families; and, it has all worked out very well. We also have group homes for those who don't do well on their own, but who don't want to live with family (some may not have any family). I have worked in several of those homes; and was very impressed with all of them.
ANYWAYS, I am just trying to explain to you why some people might think or feel that way; he may think that you are more severely handicapped than you are. Regardless, I really think that he means no harm, and would encourage you to just respond by explaining more about yourself.
I hope this is helpful to you in some way; take good care
ROSEBUD
help needed please!
