So you're out and about with your sibling and you see a friend whom you've met only once or twice. Of course, they probably haven't met your family, never mind your sibling. So you introduce your sibling, chat for a minute or two, and go on your merry way. I would say give it 10 minutes or even a day or two before they ask, "so what's wrong with him?" They ask this like it's a simple black and white answer. Like this disability DEFINES who they are. So how do you respond? Do you tell them exactly his diagnosis? Or do you leave it as bland as, "he has a disability"? Keep this in mind the next time you ask or think about asking someone what the diagnosis is of a loved one. He may have a disability, but I promise, he is MUCH more than that.
In fact, he is the most loving and caring person I have ever laid eyes on. He can brighten up your day, even when you think the world is ending. He knows when something deep down is wrong. He is struggling every day with something, but can always manage to cheer you up. But I also shouldn't even have to explain that to you; I shouldn't have to explain that although he lacks in some ways, he absolutely excels in other ways. So yes, you can ask in the most innocent way, and believe me, I see it and I understand. But although he is struggling with his disability, he still manages to teach me something new every day. Some days I get so down and just think about all of the things that I have to do and how difficult they may be, but then I think that he has to do the same thing. These worries, these fears, the stress become less heavy when I think about how he has to handle these as well.
But not only has he taught me to look at things from another view, he also has taught me to think of all of the good qualities in a person rather than the bad. If he does talk about someone's bad quality he is always there to say something good about them. He has never only talked about someone’s bad qualities. Usually, he oversees the bad qualities, which can be a good or a bad thing. So, before you make the quick judgement about someone solely based on their disability, stop yourself. This disability, believe it or not, does NOT define who he is as a person. If you give him a chance, he can teach you more about being a better person than you will ever know.
Be kind the next time you see someone with a disability because you may be saying mean things about them, but I promise they are saying nice things about you.