COUNT ME AS A PERSON; ACCEPT ME AS I AM!!!

Roses are red, violets are blue;
although I am blind, I am still a person like you!
So, please include me; I like to have fun too!
Look beyond my white cane, and you will see,
I am personable, smart, and very funny;
But most importantly, I am still me!
When you ignore me or pretend I am not there,
It makes me think and feel that you really don’t care.
Take the time to look deep, deep, inside,
You’ll find our relationship is more than a prize!

Communication is an everyday practice that everyone engages in through verbal and nonverbal messages. It is these customary interactions that enable people to form bonds with one another. When it comes to social interactions with blind/visually impaired individuals, some people may feel perplexed. In some cases, communication with a blind/visually impaired individual is viewed as being more difficult than it actually should be. In my opinion, good communication skills such as dialogue, active listening, and empathy are efficient ways to interact with someone. There is no formula on how to relate to a blind/visually impaired individual. What should really take precedence in an interaction is the time spent with one another. It is important to cherish and value the people in your life, no matter what their physical circumstances may be.
Since it is the season of love and appreciation, remember blind/visually impaired individuals like to enjoy themselves as well. Do not assume what a blind/visually impaired individual may or may not want to do, but instead ask the person for their input; whether it is going out to dinner, the movies, bowling, etc. With patience and understanding, activities can be a pleasurable experience. Beautifully Blind wishes all of our readers a Happy Valentine's Day!