Like this:

integration is the norm

I guess we touched on this subject on the last post but maybe we will get into this further as some mail i get asks about getting involved with a filipina and thier views on a disability. I have learned quite frankly that a disability has no merit on the kind of person you are in the eyes of the Filipino people. My experience is that most filipino look on it as a hinderance for you and are willing to assist you in what you are trying to accomplish, ie. going up a steep ramp, reaching a high shelf etc. but unlike here in the US a disability really doesn’t carry the stigma in the Philippines. A filipina woman will respect you and expect you to be a caring faithful, and contributing member of the extended family just like any other would be. And yes that is refreshing. I am not sure that this kind of value is carried thoughout the asain countries but i have a feeling it is as you look on the amenities and strides the Japanese people go through to respect the disabled community and there as well you are expected to carry your own weight, be self supportive and take cre of your family. In the Philippines there is no governmont social support even for someone that is disabled I guess you can equate it to the strong survive conotation. But the reality is the strength comes from within the family. the family is taught to support each other from within even if they are old or disabled. This may be another reason for your interest in developing a relationship with a filipina or becoming part of the filipino community. It really is nice to be looked upon as differantly abled insted of unable and therefore we will support you with a meager stipend for the rest of your life. Don’t get me wrong, the US is to be applauded with thier effort to take care of thier own, but maybe its more of a pity and since you can’t we will type of attitude whereas in the asian pacific community you are expected to find another way therefor relieving the stigma placed on you. Let me know how you might feel about this.

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