How to Navigate Encounters and Friendships With Disabled Folks
I have a face that is, for better or worse, approachable. In college, a friend mentioned that before we met, she’d see me around campus and think, “There goes that girl who smiles a lot.” Okay, yes, I smile a lot. I sometimes smile when I’m uncomfortable; I’ve been known to laugh when I’m sad. But, inevitably, this unflappable approachability of mine tends to lead to this type of interaction:
Stranger: Hi…um…
Me: Hi!
Stranger: No offense, but can I ask you a question?
I can’t get offended too easily as a mixed-race, disabled woman. If I did, I’d have a hard time leaving my home. But then I do leave my home and strangers feel comfortable talking to me as if we’ve already gone out for ice cream. I usually know what they’re wanting to ask.
