The Blind are People too

by Daniel Taverne
Before becoming legally blind, the idea of walking around without seeing was so foreign to me I felt awkward each time I encountered the blind out and about. That said, whenever I observed blind people strangely tapping along with those orange and white sticks, I’d make it a point to steer clear of them. Unfortunately, I think most people feel as I had and avoid them as well.

To all those who are uncertain about blindness, let me enlighten you. Blindness is not a condition that indicates a person is crazy, or weird. Blindness is merely a condition that forces the effected into finding new ways of doing things. Still, there are things you should know about the blind that will help you feel more comfortable with them.

The first thing you should understand is how easy it is to be accepted by someone who is visually impaired. In fact, you can feel good knowing a blind person, no matter what you look like will judge you by your personality and character rather than by what you look like.

Additionally, take it from me, nobody knows better than the visually impaired that accidents happen and you’d be hard pressed to find a sighted person who is as understanding as the impaired when it comes to accidents of your own.

Something else you aught to know is that in the blind population, having a good sense of humor is just as important as having one in the sighted community. That said, I like a good joke just as much as the next guy. However, since it’s easy, and sometimes tempting, to play tricks on the blind, there is a point where humor can cross the border between funny and meanness causing a lot of pain.

For instance, pulling out a chair just as a blind person sits isn’t humorous, and neither is tossing him a brick or some other hard object while yelling, “Think fast!” Be sure, therefore, that what ever tricks you play on your blind friend will not be insulting, callous or mean and that the blind person can take a joke.

Another issue to consider is figuring out if a visually impaired person wants help. When considering this it’s always a good idea to ask the person if help is desired. Don’t assume it is and start helping without an invitation. This issue mainly arises for me when someone assumes I can’t find my way around a room and suddenly yanks on my arm to lead me.

Additionally, there are many occasions when visually impaired people like the challenge that comes with trying to complete tasks independently only to discover half way through them that some assistance is needed. Again, don’t assume it is. Ask first.

Other than their advanced ability at being creative in overcoming figurative and literal obstacles, the blind are as normal as anyone else. Don’t, therefore, be alarmed or frightened when encountering us out in the world. Simply introduce yourself, strike up a conversation, and soon you’ll understand that the blind are people too.