Disability versus Ability 
December 3rd marks the “International Day of Persons with Disabilities”. This is not a day we hear much about but such a very important day. Follow this link to see the overview of this day of observance and some of the latest stats concerning individuals with disabilities (some of the stats may surprise you):
http://www.un.org/en/events/disabilitiesday/background.shtml
The stigma that surrounds individuals with any type of disability is staggering. It is interesting though, the unique stigma that comes with mental health disabilities. It seems that the uniqueness of a mental health disability is a double edge sword. On one hand one cannot “see” the disability as apparent as an outside physical disability; therefore, one may not have a sense of the same type of discrimination. On the other hand, because others cannot “see” the disability the individual is many times judged in unfair ways and has expectations placed on them that are not realistic. This many times creates/deepen shame for the individual.
In scripture there are many times it will reference the “outsider” in the group and how we are to treat the “outsider”. In Matthew chapter 25 scripture speaks about what we do to the “least of these”. We are to build up and show love to all and this includes the “least of these”. In scripture it is clear that when we do show this love it is as showing it directly to God. Therefore, who are the “least of these”? Different people have different opinions and it seems safe to say it would include those in our society that seemingly have a disability and are not able to contribute to society as the majority does. It is important to remember that the person’s worth/value is not based on the things they can or cannot do. When we keep this is mind we are free from the traps of judgement and comparison and are free to show love and kindness. The type of love and kindness that does not see an individual marked by their disabilities but rather the abilities/gifts blessed to them by God.
~Kelly Saylor
