Conversations Are Not Always Random - They May Help Someone

A lady approached me at Target. I was browsing the clothing sections, when I quietly heard "excuse me." coming nearby. I assumed she was trying to walk by, but that wasn't the case.

I rarely go shopping. But, when I do, I usually have a list and know exactly what I'm looking forward. This is because of the severity of pain and fatigue I experience when walking. If I'm on my feet too long (even as little as ten minutes), I may not be able to do as much the next few days.

But, for some reason, in this particular morning, I happened to be at the store longer. And I quickly learned it was so I could have a conversation with this sweet lady.

The lady asked about my AFOs (ankle foot orthotics). Now, given the fact, I wore light-colored jeans that day, it made sense why she would notice. She seemed generally curious, but that wasn't all. She wanted to know why I wore them and how they helped me.

The conversation continued as I shared about my AFOs, how they help me with walking and stability. And the part of it not taking away my chronic pain, but it does help my energy levels. I learned that this lady was also experiencing pain and thought that maybe something like my braces might help her.

It's not a rare occurrence that I'm asked about my AFOs. For many, they have never encountered someone wearing them and especially not one in their twenties. I used to ignore comments or try to avoid answering questions about my physical challenges. This came out of the insecurities and not wanting others to know about my disability. I felt ashamed that I needed help when on the outside I looked normal. Most of the time no one would notice that anything is different when they are hidden. That mindset did change though when I've continued to let my braces be more visible.

Over the years, I've come to realize that it's an opporunity to help another. Whether that's through educating or sharing part of my journey of health challenges. I really see it as something from God when I'm approached. Especially when it's by someone who asks with a kind nature and wants to know if it's okay to ask about my braces. Often these conversations are kept brief, but sometimes they lead to hearing their story and struggles.

If I wasn't open to answering questions about my AFOs, I would probably have missed out on opportunities to share more about my what I go through. And I wouldn't have been able to help someone who may also benefit from using a mobility aid.