[nabs-l] Good luck with your endeavors

Sat May 21 19:46:28 UTC 2011

If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when? -- Rabbi Hil-el

Mike Freeman
sent from my iPhone

On May 20, 2011, at 15:47, Darian Smith <dsmithnfb at gmail.com> wrote:

> 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
> 
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