[nabs-l] Good luck with your endeavors

[Kirt Manwaring]

Bridget,
  It's been a pleasure.  I'll miss your lively conversation and
passionate opinions.  I've enjoyed butting heads with you, I've also
learned a lot from you.  I know your family comes first, none of us
would have it any other way, but I look forward to you popping in from
time to time as life permits.
  Best wishes,
Kirt

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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