From A DisAbility Perspective -

The Difference Between You and I...

*I am a resident.  You reside.

*I am admitted.  You move in.

*I have behavior problems.  You are rude.

*I am non-compliant.  You don't like being told what to do.

*When I ask you out to dinner, it is an "outing."  When you ask someone out, it is a date.

*I make a mistake during my check-writing program.  I might get my own bank account.

      You forget to record some withdrawals from your account.  The bank calls to remind you.

*I wanted to talk with the person behind us at the grocery store.  I was told not to talk to strangers.

    You met your spouse in the produce department.  He couldn't find the bean spouts.

*My case manager sends a report every month to my guardian.  It says everything I did wrong. 

    You are still mad at your sister for calling your mom after you got a speeding ticket.

*I am on a special diet because I am five pounds over my ideal body weight. 

    Your doctor gave up telling you.

*I am learning leisure skills.  Your shirt says you are a "couch potato."

*After I do my budget program tonight, I might get to go to McDonald's if I have enough money.

    You were glad the new French restaurant took your charge card.

*My case manager, psychologist, R.N., occupational therapist and house staff set goals for me for next year.

    You haven't decided what you want out of life.

*Someday I will be discharged...maybe.  You will pursue your own dreams and lifestyle.

                                                                                                                                        By Elaine Popovich