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Old Oct 26, 2019, 08:03 PM
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bpcyclist bpcyclist is offline
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Member Since: Sep 2019
Location: Portland
Posts: 12,681
Quote:
Originally Posted by sarahsweets View Post
Hey @bpcyclist, I see what your point is but do not totally agree. I know what you mean by someone who changes with the wind, an opportunist. I see this as a negative but I do think being closer to certain people changes the way our jokes are between each other and personal experiences matter.

I am an alcoholic in recovery and work with other alcoholic addicts. Amongst us all we may make jokes about our past substance use or being a drunk and its fine. We both shared that experience and commisterate over it. I have gay friends that make jokes that are offensive if anyone else said them but between them its ok and I think this is because of a shared experience. I think some people have lower tolerances for people at different times. I have one friend who is so scattered and all over the place that I need to prepare when I socialize with her. I adore her and she is a good friend but a lot to take. I do not think this makes me a manipulator or someone looking to be in power or control. Do you see what I mean? Am I misunderstanding you or are we sort of on the same plane?
No, we're on the same page. I was referring specifically to a case where, given an absolutely identical set of facts, a person treats two comparable, non-disabled people completely differently, simply because of who they happen to be. Obviously, I would not have the exact same conversation with my sweet Down Syndrome neighbor as I will with the accountant down the hall about the details of the fire we just had on the third floor. That would be inappropriate on my part and this is not manipulation. It's being compassionate and socially appropriate.
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When I was a kid, my parents moved a lot, but I always found them--Rodney Dangerfield
Thanks for this!
rdgrad15, sarahsweets