Recently someone asked why I don’t write more about great things that happen. While it’s true that I’m often pointing out things that aren’t so great, the reason is pretty simple.

The bad, sad and negative things are anomalies – small blips in what is otherwise a happy life, one full of good people who are caring, committed to inclusion and striving to lead by example. The blips do get my attention, and I like to explore them in writing.

But back to the good stuff: My favorite people are those who try to include everyone, regardless of race or class, gender identity or sexual orientation, ability or disability. These forward thinkers look for opportunities to minimize the marginalization of folks. I’m so fortunate to know many people who are like this – dedicated to helping everyone feel that they belong and are not an afterthought.

Over the years, I have had some amazing supervisors who have really tried to help me, as an employee with a disability, know that I am part of the group and not on the sidelines. I can think of only one exception, long ago, and even that was a learning experience.

I also have learned a thing or two about reasonable accommodations and how important they are for helping a person feel like any other team member. To everyone who has made my life as rich and rewarding as it is, thank you.

We are all imperfect beings in an imperfect world. We all deserve a little grace. We’re bound to get it wrong sometimes, as we can only truly know our own lived experiences, not what life is like for everyone else.  But an outlook that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion can be a really good starting point.

Denise Blackburn-Smith was born with cerebral palsy and has been a Franklin County DD service coordinator for 17 years.