Category: Personal Updates

I Enjoy Blogging/Creative Writing. Here’s why: (a list)

Derek I. Schmitz

I enjoy blogging and creative writing a lot. Here's a list of the reasons why: Coping mechanism: Writing is a massive coping mechanism for me. When I'm upset about something (SHOCKER: Men get upset too), I write about it. Venting: I also creatively vent on important issues on my other website, derekschmitzviews.wordpress.com (shameless plug, btw)… Continue reading I Enjoy Blogging/Creative Writing. Here’s why: (a list)

Two Mass Shootings in 24 Hours

Derek I. Schmitz1 Comment

There have been 2 mass shootings in 24 hours. You have got to be kidding me right now. I can't believe I have to do this again. Firstly, I would like to send my deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers to Dayton, Ohio and El Paso, Texas. I can't believe that this is the world we… Continue reading Two Mass Shootings in 24 Hours

Validation and Feeling Valid

Derek I. Schmitz6 Comments

Validation is a huge thing in both the disability and LGBTQIA+ communities. The definition of the word is to offer recognition or affirmation that a person or their feelings or opinions are valid or worthwhile. The definition of valid is having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable or cogent. It is important that… Continue reading Validation and Feeling Valid

Person-first or Disability-first language

Derek I. Schmitz2 Comments

Let's start this post with an example of both languages. Disabled person is disability-first, as it describes the disability that the person has before the gender. Person who has a disability is person-first, as it puts the gender/fact that they are human before the disability. Different people prefer different usages. Disability-first, to me, means that… Continue reading Person-first or Disability-first language

Don’t be “Sorry” about Disability

Derek I. Schmitz

Please don't pity disabled people. We live with what we are given. We understand that our situation is different, but most of us know how to adapt around it. Pitying us gets us nowhere. Validation gets us somewhere. Pitying makes us feel bad (or worse) about the disability or condition that we live with. We… Continue reading Don’t be “Sorry” about Disability