My Christmas Wish(es)

 If I had three wishes,

No jewels or riches for me,

Just a little help for this brain of mine,

To finally tell left from right.

No more your other left jokes,

Just simple directions, please.

I'd wish for my goals,

To stop playing hide and seek,

With barriers popping up, 

Like unexpected guests at a party.

From a disability point of view, 

Could we make the world a bit more accessible? 

That’d be a cracker.

Maybe that’s all just one wish,

Wrapped up like a festive present,

One where laughter meets understanding.

And the world gets a nudge 

In the right direction 

Because honestly 

Who wouldn’t want that for Christmas?l

The poem illustrates the everyday challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, touching upon the desire for understanding and accessibility. It also alludes to the broader conversation around the social model of disability.

What is the Social Model of Disability?

The social model of disability is a way of viewing the world, developed by disabled people. In this model, disability is caused by the way society is organised, rather than by a person’s impairment or difference. It suggests that barriers in society are the real issue, not the physical or mental limitations that individuals might have. These barriers can be physical, like buildings not having accessible entrances, or they can be caused by people's attitudes to difference.

The poem's wish for simple directions and a more accessible world aligns with the social model's focus on reducing societal barriers and increasing inclusion.

Steps Towards Inclusivity

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding different disabilities and the challenges people face is the first step. Read, attend workshops, or engage in discussions about disability awareness.

2. Promote Accessible Environments: Whether it's at home, work, or public spaces, encourage the use of ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets. Ensure digital spaces are also inclusive, with features like alt text for images and captioning for videos.

3. Use Inclusive Language: Be mindful of the language used when speaking about disabilities. Avoid terms that are outdated or carry negative connotations.

4. Listen and Ask: Encourage open conversations and listen to the experiences of disabled individuals. Ask them what support they might need, rather than making assumptions.

5. Advocate for Change: Support policies and practices that aim to dismantle societal barriers. This could include campaigning for better public transport options or more inclusive educational practices.

6. Be Patient and Understanding: Understand that everyone has different needs and abilities. Patience and empathy can go a long way in creating an inclusive environment.

This poem's wish for a world where laughter meets understanding and where barriers are addressed highlights the essence of the social model of disability. By taking small steps towards inclusivity, we can contribute to a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Love and solidarity, 

Aspen Greenwood