The faceless ones

Sadly those who are too sick to work have to contend with issues of shame. 

In a society where we are "framed, boxed, categorised, sifted, found wanting in society's eyes" as I wrote about in the poem here, we experience deep frustration at being pigeon-holed and stigmatised.

It all impacts our lives adversely, affecting our relationships and connections with others.

For instance, on the rare occasions when I am alone downstairs in the house and have to answer the door during a late morning/afternoon/evening period in my nightclothes, wearing  bed-head hair, a dazed, sleepy expression and a veneer of embarrassment; I either say nothing (for such a state is normal to those who know me) or mumble something like, "Please excuse me, I'm unwell today" to those I don't.

Then I hasten to close the door as fast as possible to avoid curious stares from neighbours or passers-by who may wonder what they are seeing. I just want them to understand I am sick rather than lazy.

Does it always take a stick or wheelchair to convince people we are ill?......

I'd love you to come on over and read the rest at my friend Mia's blog where I am delighted to be guest posting today..She is a fellow M.E and chronic illness sufferer and a beautiful person with a heart to help others who are struggling.

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