So, I was reading another blog the other day, and it brought to mind some other things that I have thought about. Being with a quadriplegic, it of course is going to have its ups and downs. Every relationship has its ups and downs, it's to be expected. And when I entered into this relationship, I was completely willing and accepting of taking on these ups and downs.
One good and bad part is the stares. People are just naturally curious. Kids are just beyond naturally curious, and have no filter. Which can really be awesome. However, over time people try to suppress that natural curiosity and filter, and it turns into the stares. Personally, they don't bother me too much. It may be because I grew up with an aunt who uses a power wheelchair, and I have always just been used to it. Honestly, I still catch myself staring at other people in wheelchairs. I am honestly oftentimes trying to figure out why they are in a chair. For some, it's obvious. Others, not so much. But whatever, I'm getting off track.
When people stare at us while we are out, I just nod and keep going. Because being with Legalquad is something that I absolutely love, and I want people to see that about us. Even though he can't feel it, when I catch someone staring at us, I tend to squeeze his hand a little bit. For me, that is just reassuring, even though I know if he's not looking, he has no idea that I am doing it. I'm sure that people stare out of curiosity. But I also know that they are staring at his service dog. He has a 4 year old golden retriever service dog. As good as she is, it's hard to hide 75 pounds of dog, lol.
Truthfully, the only time I mind people staring is when we are eating, especially if it's food that he needs to be fed. I feel like that is an invasion of our privacy. I don't stare at you while you are eating, please mind your own business while we eat and enjoy each others company.
While we are growing in this relationship, and I am learning more and more about what it is like being with a guy who is quadriplegic, I have learned a lot about myself as well. And I have learned that the stares aren't all bad. I haven't yet been asked if I'm the caretaker or something along those lines, but the hand holding and kissing may give that away ;)
