My eyes scanned the table in an attempt to locate the position of the butter dish. Where was it? There was a break in the chatter as the others silently watched my effort to locate the elusive dish. Then Lyle reached over in front of me and passed the dish across the table to Jennifer. Everyone let out their breath and burst out laughing. “Good call, Dad,” said our son. It had been clear to one and all that my inability to see had made it impossible for me to comply with Jen’s innocent request.
This is what I love about my family. They are both mindful and forgetful of my poor vision. They don’t put my vision at the forefront of our interactions. I am fortunate to have several close friends who are able to walk this balance between care and concern and a measure of protectiveness.
Please pass the butter. I love it! For the instant of forgetfulness on Jen’s part, I was just one of the family without need of any special considerations. When it was obvious that I didn’t have the ability to see and comply, the mindfulness kicked in, Lyle passed the butter and we were back to a normal family gathering again.
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