July 18 - Blind Expectations

When I hear the word “blind” I think of someone without sight - but there are variations of that meaning. Being blind doesn’t only mean being unable to see with one’s eyes.  People can also be blinded by narrow perceptions and expectations. I was confronted with this just the other day.  I am waiting for knee surgery.  The comment was made that the knee surgery would not make much difference to my activity level.  After all, I was visually impaired and wouldn’t be doing the same things as people who were sighted. To say that I was affronted would be an understatement.  Admittedly I don’t aspire to be a tennis pro or a downhill skiing champion.  However, within my circle of sighted friends, we like to walk long distances, sometimes swim, go to yoga classes and generally enjoy life. At the time I was too surprised to correct this stranger’s narrow perception of my abilities and capabilities.  I hope that he will watch the upcoming Paralympic Games and expand his perception of the accomplishments of people who are without physical sight. I am wondering if I should have labelled this post Blind Expectations or Expectations of the Blind.  What do you think?