[nabs-l] Spacial Awareness as a Totally Blind Person

[Valerie Gibson]

I'm curious about  the same thing--visual communication and how to
effectively start a conversation so that the sighted person knows
you're speaking to them. I understand moving your head in the
direction of which they're speaking helps, but what if you "know"
someone is beside you, but you cannot accurately judge hight or
anything so you don't know where their eyes are generally located.
being a short person, this is difficult.

Another thing that interests me is why certain facial expressions mean
certain things and why.  One guy thought he'd offended me when he
asked if i'd like to take a seat. I was far from offended, but i guess
something on my face registered  offense.  it's hard to portray what
you want the sighted person to see if you've never seen, or been
explained, this.

just my thoughts...

On 10/12/09, J.J. Meddaugh <jj at bestmidi.com> wrote:
> I've learned over the years that being totally blind presents a unique set
> of challenges not seen by thsoe with some vision. Of course the converse is
> true as well. For me, one of my biggest places where I feel I could improve
> involves spacial awareness. I'm curious to hear from others with any tips on
> ways to be better aware of their surroundings. How do you effectively and
> consciously avoid other people's personal space when talking or walking from
> place to place?
> A lot of these situations seems to come up at parties, also, when it's
> sometimes difficult to figure out the best place to stand or sit and hold a
> conversation without looking awkward. And of course, as a blind person, if
> you try to walk around and talk to people, some sighted people will just
> start asking you where you are going or if you are looking for something.
> Surely there must be ways to just fit into the group.
>
> Finally, some of these challenges apply when trying to network at a
> conference with unknown people. Does anyone have any tips for how to
> politely but effectively start a conversation or break into a group
> conversation between others which has already started?
> I'm talking about the various networking receptions which are held by
> companies or take place at conventions and other events.
>
> Thanks for any help.
>
>
> J.J.
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