This post was originally published on my Facebook page. I thought it should go here too.
Advertisements
My Life
Paratransit is Separate and Unequal
As I wrote before, paratransit, the transit service offered people with disabilities by local public transit entities, is not something I ever wanted to join. Given the lack of sidewalks in parts of the Portland area, and other reasons, I did finally register. While I have had a few decent rides from paratransit, I realize the service is one that should be avoided at all cost.
Wrong Should Equal Harm
I was having a discussion with a close friend about the amount of moral judgments that take place in society today. Most conservatives oppose same-sex marriage, because they say it’s wrong. It’s the same when it comes to the rights of people who are transgender. What those conservatives can’t explain is who is actually being harmed.
An update on My Job
To recap, I started as the Disability Equity Specialist on March 19, 2018.
Don’t Delete Facebook
I’m guessing most of us joined Facebook to share updates and information with friends and family. Some of us learned to enjoy Facebook groups of people with similar interests. Deleting Facebook would cause us to lose access to things we actually enjoy. So, the answer isn’t to delete Facebook. The answer is to remember why we joined Facebook in the first place and interact with it on our terms.
History is More Important Than Math
Obviously, everyone needs an education in basic math. Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions are encountered by most people on a very regular basis. On the other hand, the vast majority of people rarely use algebra, calculus, or geometry.
Canceling my Social Security
On Friday, I began the process of canceling my Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. While I’m obviously thrilled to be starting my new job tomorrow, I have to admit that I was a bit nervous to start the process that will result in my no longer collecting benefits.
Practicing With my Cane
As part of my preparation for my new job, I decided I should once again get comfortable using my cane. Obviously, I much prefer going places with Ufi, but there may be times when it would make more sense for him to stay home. Also, there may come a time when he is sick. And, of course, he will eventually retire.
I Have a Job!
March 1, 2018, started out as a normal day. March 1, 2018 will go down as one of the most important days of my life. As the title indicates, March 1, 2018 is the day my years-long job search came to an end. I no longer have to read through job listings, think about cover letters and resumes, and wonder when I’ll get another chance to prove what I can do. Very soon, I will start work as the Disability Equity Specialist in Portland’s Office of Equity and Human Rights.
Democrats Failed Dreamers and Children
In the wake of the deal to keep the government open at least until February 8, Democrats are patting themselves on the back for securing a six-year extension of funding for the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).