The effects of verbage....

In the last post, Four days the beginning of May, it had a lot to do with my health issues. I wish to be has independent as possible. I have allowed the opinion of others to effect my opinion of myself regarding any or all disabilities I have. Although I truly need help from time to time, and using a walking staff from time to time is a far cry from the need of a walker, a caregiver and/or Trimet Lift service. It was sad but easy to think that I needed those other things because, I realized with the help of my best friend, people seem to understand physical disabilities better than mental health. I also realized when people ask what I do, I am not my disability, I am an artist and crafts person specializing in jewelry making right now and practicing the Art of Bonsai soon (perhaps teaching it next year). I have found that if others ask what I do and I say I don't work because I am on disability, they always ask why, so I tell them and it often leads to a feeling of judgement because I don't look or, to them, act like I am disabled. I do not wish to be deceitful but it isn't anyone's business but my own as to how I earn money really. I earn money making jewelry or I can say I am retired or semi retired. If for some reason I feel it is important for a person to know more details, then I may chose to share about my SSD and specifics about my disabilities.

Also, with regard to a "caregiver", until I get a used car, I am more in need of a personal assistant which is a less dependent oriented term.

Also I've realized that the reason I felt I may need a walker was in part because of the waiting and walking to bus stops that sometimes have nowhere to sit while I wait. If I get a used car, sooner than later, the bus issue will be a moot point.

I also realized that I can pay a mechanic to help me decide if I am getting a good deal on a used car or not.