[humanser] New THOUGHT PROVOKER #152- The Cursed

[Mary Chappell]

Robert,
I was initially struck by the protagonists name--Robert. Might this be a
reflection on a past personal experience? Whether it be or not, that
sometimes issues of the heart can be determined by factors of the mind can
be disheartening. That the two individuals in the provoker found such
pleasure and connection with one another is beautiful. That culture and
tradition can so blatantly disregard the same is equally as ugly. It is
important to remember such road blocks are not only formed against those who
are blind but against any and everyone with a difference that is
misunderstood and further misperceived.
I think of the countless times, in general public, I have been confronted
with "God bless you..." Sometimes because my blindness is somehow perceived
as a blessing and, far more often when it is perceived as a curse.
Robert, if this was a personal account I pray that you found the pleasures
and happiness with Dara that the two of you sought. If no, I hope you are
planning to build on the beginnings of this work and create something that
has a realistic and beautiful ending. All the best.
Mary Tatum Chappell, Alexandria, Virginia.

-----Original Message-----
From: humanser-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:humanser-bounces at nfbnet.org] On
Behalf Of Robert Leslie Newman
Sent: Sunday, December 20, 2009 10:38 AM
To: human services list
Subject: [humanser] New THOUGHT PROVOKER #152- The Cursed

Human Services
RE:  The Cursed 

Here is my #152nd THOUGHT PROVOKER. It is a study in how various religious
factions will view the blind; from near sainthood to being cursed. If you
have not read the PROVOKER, it follows.  Recall that I collect responses and
post them upon my web site for all the WWW to read and learn from and that
URL is- Http://thoughtprovoker.info <http://thoughtprovoker.info/>   If you
wish to receive THOUGHT PROVOKERS sent directly to you, just write me and
ask, at-  newmanrl at cox.net 



THOUGHT PROVOKER 152
The Cursed

"Hi, I'm Robert. Your accent, if I am reading it correctly, places you from
somewhere in the Middle East?" 

The attractive dusky-skinned, dark-haired woman looked quizzically at the
guy approaching. He was about her age, nice looking, using a long white
cane. She had first noticed him upon her arrival in the hotel lobby, and
later in the registration line and reception area for those attending the
two-day conference. He had impressed her with his poise as he maneuvered
about independently, responding charmingly as he dealt with the awkward
reception his presence sometimes elicited. Without hesitation, she spoke up,
"Hello, and, yes. To put a finger or two on the map, Cairo originally, but
most recently, right here in Philly. My name is Dara --- I'm the only one
sitting in this row." A realization was blossoming within her; this guy's
disability didn't make her feel uncomfortable.

Anticipation fueling his every stride, Robert moved into the row. He hadn't
expected such a provocative seatmate at a conference where he knew there
wouldn't be anyone he'd know. Her voice is so beautiful, he thought.
Feeling at ease and maybe too much so, he couldn't believe his next words,
"Well, guess I'll sit by you and fill up the row so it's just ours."

They didn't have the entire row to themselves. Yet throughout the morning's
presentations, they indulged in periodic soft-spoken exchanges.  Some
concerning the information being presented, some purely personal, and
sometimes, sharing some stifled laughter. 

At the end of the morning session, they decided to have lunch together.
Later, they had dinner, then the next morning, breakfast, and then lunch
again. The conference was over at 4:00 PM. 

"I've got to see you again. How about tomorrow lunch or dinner somewhere?"
Robert asked.

"Yes, me too. Ah --- how about you come over to my apartment and I make
dinner --- you bring a refreshment."

"Yes!"

The night of their date, dinner finished, with more wine, soft music, and a
deep lingering kiss, Dara said, "I once heard that it was very disconcerting
to look into a blind person's eyes. But ah --- being this close and looking
--- I'm not sure I know what they are referring to."

"Well I'm told --- good art work on non-scratch plastic like I have, can
work miracles."

"Ha! Oh Robert my dear man," Dara snuggled closer, "you are so full of
surprises and delights. I must tell you that I feel that I am falling in
love with you. "Fingertips caressing his cheek,  "Before we get more
serious, we must go to my father. He must meet and pass his judgment on my
choice."

"Woo, You mean we have to get your father's permission to fall in love?" 

"No, it's not that way. I have my own heart and feelings. I respect you for
who you are, my dear. Just that, my father is the --- head of the family. It
is the way within my culture. The man oversees the affairs of the family.
You will like him. He is a generous, loving, and God fearing man. And his
being judgmental; well --- it goes along with the position "

The day came for their trip to Dara's family home and her introduction of
Robert to her father came. Her mother served them tea and sweets. They
talked, drank tea, talked some more, and though her family were very polite,
they were nevertheless very curious about how this blind man lived. 

After dinner, in her father's study, Dara and Robert spoke of their feelings
for one another. And her father answered. "My dear daughter, I do not give
my permission. Let me make this very clear, Robert, though you are a fine
fellow, I must oppose this marriage. I do not want my daughter to be fated
to the life she would have to live if she is betrothed to you. You are
blind, a condition which greatly, how should I say it --- blindness severely
impacts your life--you are stigmatized; you have reduced independence and,
therefore, your prospects to financially care for my daughter are
handicapped. No. I forbid this union. You are one of God's cursed."


Robert Leslie Newman 
Email- newmanrl at cox.net
THOUGHT PROVOKER Website- 
Http://www.thoughtprovoker.info

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