Perspective on Disability
Disability is often viewed as an abnormal part of life in a normal world. However this view ignores the fact that every person - regardless of disability or non-disability - falls short of perfection (physically, intellectually, sensorily, socially, and psychologically).
Disability is not a defining personal characteristic. Rather, disability can be seen as the gap between capability and present demands of the circumstance. Disability is a relationship between a person and their environment. Rather than talking about disabled people, we should more often talk about disabling environments.
- For housing this means access not only to one’s own house but to the houses of others.
- For employment, this means more than work accommodation… it means building new businesses that emphasize strength based employment, alternative management structures and creative entrepreneurial approaches.
- For transportation, this means more than mere accommodation and access. It means valuing and celebrating the participation of every individual in community events.
- For education, it means more than accommodated learning. It means self-directed personal growth and the pursuit of personal passions.
- For community, it means creating the opportunity to build community connection points for individuals around the world. To demystify disability through interaction – without favoring ability or disability.
- For medical services and care it means more than health maintenance and filling care gaps, it means well-being and proactive health management.
In the Christian Bible, every individual, including those with disabilities, is valued and loved by God. Jesus showed compassion, emphasizing equality and acceptance, especially to those who are marginalized in society. There are many stories without regard for disability or non-disability of enduring and overcoming challenges with an emphasis on a future hope in being perfected in God's presence.