Characteristics of the Blind

The English language with its wealth of idiomatic expressions makes the following deductions concerning the characteristics of the blind and their daily activities possible.

They may be excused for being forgetful, because out of sight is out of mind. They are very happy; what the eye does not see the heart does not grieve. They are also very affectionate, because love is blind. They often ignore things by turning a blind eye to them. They may be ignorant because they are in the dark about things, but do not underestimate them they've got it all taped. They are very friendly people and like to keep in touch. They also tend to have a real feeling for the world round about them though they may not be able always to see eye to eye with certain situations. They may also sometimes lose sight of certain facts, but do not underestimate their vision.

Despite being blind, they can still look forward to something and see you next week. You may not always be able to make them see what you mean, but they still are able to have their own view. They are not blind to their own faults nor to the faults of others. You can try pulling the wool over their eyes, but you may find that very difficult.

They are so good at what they do that they can do it with their eyes closed, but if they try to burn the candle at both ends, they may burn their fingers, Their medium of writing is easily spotted, is not pointless, in fact there is very much point in using braille and it is outstanding.

Blind people enjoy a social life. However, one must bear in mind that if you take someone on a date, it will always be a blind date. If they have too much alcohol, they may get blind drunk. Be warned: their rage and fear will always be blind rage and blind fear. When walking down the street at a fast pace with a white object being tapped about, they could be called hurricanes. An uneven pavement can be a real stumbling block. Blind alleys will not be too much of a problem.

They never walk with blinkers on, but they walk by faith and not by sight. If you were to come across blind people from Venice they would probably be called Venetian blinds. They are not allowed to drive, but it might be possible, provided they stick to blind rises and go round blind corners. Blind spots would not present a problem for them and at night they will not be blinded by the lights of other vehicles.

These are blind facts, but we hope that no-one finds the subject too touching and do not be so blind as those that will not see. Perhaps all this has been an eye opener to someone. May we all not lose sight of the fact that we are living in the age of so-called enlightenment, where visionary leadership is very important and where care must be taken not to be blinded by things that are unimportant. Hopefully all this has provided some light relief.

--author unknown

Source: This was read out loud (by a sighted person, of course) at my first-ever Committee to Aid the Blind meeting. Proof that we blind folk know how to laugh at ourselves!

By Lelia Jo Cordell from Springfield, Ohio