I am frequently judged by my looks for reasons that are obvious in the picture above -- I have somewhat "extreme" facial piercings, various piercings in my ears, and short black hair that gives me a somewhat androgynous appearance.

However, I am also judged for reasons that cannot be seen in the picture -- I have a physical disability that affects me in various ways: some are visible, some are not. Regardless, I have very few limitations, but I am still subjected to the ignorance of others.

My condition is congenital -- it is sacral agenesis. It has many implications, but some of the most notable are the fact my growth is stunted and I am unable to walk without crutches. Although I lead a considerably "normal" life and have very few obstacles, I must still face the stares and questions of others.

As I have gotten older such things have been easier to deal with, such as talking to children or just ignoring the incidents all together. What is frightening, though, is the ignorance of adults. I am nineteen years old, and I have noticed that people far older than myself blatantly staring at me. Even worse, such people have approached me and my friends or family members in public and asked everyone but me questions about me! I am perfectly capable of answering such questions, but I am treated as if I am completely unaware or unable to do anything.

Sometimes it seems like it is too much to handle, I have gotten stressed out in public many times before because people would not simply mind their own business and keep their eyes to themselves. Just yesterday I was in the grocery story with my youngest sister when she said "Those boys over there are staring at you, wondering what your crutches are all about and how you use them." I had noticed their glances but failed to acknowledge them any further. I replied to my sister "Well they need better things to do, don't they?"

My sister had once been curious about my crutches and disability, but now she sees past it and -- like myself -- does not see why others cannot do the same.

If I -- or anyone else should be judged upon anything -- it should be upon character. Unforunately, outward appearances often stop others from getting to know anyone beyond what beliefs they have already formed about them. If someone would take the time to talk to me before judging me because of my piercings or my disability, they would know that I have feelings, too, and that I am worth getting to know.