[nabs-l] Good luck with your endeavors

[Darian Smith]

Best of luck!  At some point, it is expected that most of, if not all
of us may stepaway, but never too far away.
  It's  always good to think about yourself while you think about
others, and one daywe all have to  truly consider ourselves to truly
be happy.
 I wish you the best in  acheving that complete happiness!
  Darian

On 5/20/11, Bridgit Pollpeter <bpollpeter at hotmail.com> wrote:
> Dear Nabsters,
>
> I've not posted in weeks, but as many of you know, finals are a crazy,
> crazy time of year.  Though my post have often been few and far between
> over the years, I've always enjoyed the lively discussions and plethora
> of information.  My husband and I are stepping down from our various
> leadership positions so we can focus on personal, and professional
> goals.  We are not quitting the Federation altogether, but we are taking
> a well deserved break.  I wanted to say a few things before I take an
> extended absence from this list.
>
> I graduate in August, but I'm applying to different MFA programs for
> creative writing.  I'm also interning with a public relations group this
> summer, which, only two weeks in, and I'm already busy with projects up
> to my eyes!  *smile*  My husband begins grad school in the fall, and we
> both are searching for new employment opportunities.  I hope the future
> holds many more opportunities, and I'm figuring out what my next step
> will be.  My husband and I are excited about some opportunities looming
> on the horizon including a family.  We have reached a point when we want
> to focus our energies on personal goals, and find the balance between
> Federation involvement and everything else.  The work we have
> accomplished with the NFB means a lot to us, but it is now time to
> accomplish goals for selfish reasons!  *smile*
>
> As the future leaders in this organization, and the future voice of the
> blind, I encourage each of you to work diligently towards your dreams.
> Don't ever let anyone, including the NFB, tell you that your dreams are
> impossible.  Obstacles only exist because we allow them.  Keep this in
> mind, if it is difficult and scary, you are probably moving in the right
> direction.
>
> Strive to achieve as much independence as possible.  The blind have
> limitations because society decided this long ago.  We based our reality
> on perceptions, not truth.  As blind people, we can achieve whatever we
> set our minds on.  Let limitations be a thought of the past.
>
> Be efficient with your skills.  Both partials and totals, prepare
> yourself for each and every situation.  Don't let fears, ignorance and
> perceptions hold you back.  Remember, the tools of the blind, Braille,
> canes and dogs, adaptive technology, are not badges of the handicapped,
> but are tools of the independent.  Let's change the world's opinions by
> insisting they accept us, and our tools and methods, as capable, equal
> people.  The better you are with the skills, the more success you will
> achieve, and people will recognize that blind people are not less
> capable.  Your life is what you make it.  If you grasp this, you will
> find a whole new world open to you.
>
> Learn from your past, but don't dwell on it.  We can't change what has
> already happened.  Grow from your experiences, but don't define your
> future by any negativity from the past.  Live in the moment, but always
> think of the future.  Your teens and twenties will fly by so chase your
> dreams now.  If one avenue ends and does not bring what you hoped for,
> choose another route and keep moving.
>
> Do not allow blindness to define you.  Blindness is but one part of you.
> You are a full person who has a lot to offer.  Blindness does not make
> you completely different from anyone else, so don't let it become the
> defining aspect of you.
>
> Please, please keep an open mind in all things.  Don't be ruled by what
> others tell you, or what you hear.  Consider all sides before making
> decisions.  No single person, or organization, has all the answers.
> Growth and change is good and should happen.  With no growth, stagnancy
> occurs, and no one is helped when there is no forward movement.
>
> Keep your own council, and learn to make your own decisions.
> Questioning is not a bad thing.  Do not be afraid to speak up and voice
> concerns and suggestions.  If your voice is silenced, consider finding a
> new venue where your voice is appreciated.  We expect the rest of the
> world to open their minds about blindness, let's not close our minds in
> return.  Work to achieve true equality, which means sharing that
> equality.  Open your mind to new experiences and people, and don't allow
> blindness to become a means of reverse prejudice.
>
> I'll still be around, and I may pop on the list from time to time, but I
> hope we all experience bright things in our future.  For anyone
> interested, I will continue to advertise my blogs as many of you have
> been awesome supporters.
>
> Good luck in all your endeavors.
>
> Bridgit Pollpeter
>
>
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-- 
Darian Smith
Skype: The_Blind_Truth
Windows Live: Lightningrod2010 at live.com
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/goldengateace

"The purpose of life is a life of purpose.

— Robert Byrne