A Credo of Support

Do not see my disAbility as a problem.  Recognize that my disability is an attribute.

Do not see my disAbility as a deficit.  It is you who see me as deviant and helpless.

Don not try to fix me because I am not broken. 

Support me.  I can make my contributions to the community in my own way.

Do not see me as your client.  I am your fellow citizen. 

See me as your neighbor.  Remember none of us can be self-sufficient.

Do not try to modify my behavior.  Be still, listen. 

What you define as inappropriate may be my attempt to communicate the only way I know.

Do not try to change me, you have no right.  Help me learn what I want to know.

Do not hide your uncertainty behind "professional" distance. 

Be a person who listens & doesn't take my struggle away by trying to make it all better.

Do not use theories and strategies on me.  Be with me.

And when we struggle with each other, let that give use to self-reflection.

Do not try to control me.  I have a right to my power as a person.

What you call non-compliance may be the only way I can exert control in my life.

Do not teach me to be obedient, submissive and polite. 

I need to feel entitled to say No if I am to protect myself.

Do not try to be my friend.  I deserve more than that.

Get to know me and we may become friends.

Do not admire me.  A desire to live a full life does not warrant adoration.

Respect me, for respect presumes equity.

                                                                    (Kunc & Van der Klift, 1995)