Taking the time to get to know someone could be more important than you realise. Endeavour Foundation employee Lucas shares his thoughts about what it really feels like to be judged.

You might never know exactly what experiences in life you are going without if you judge someone poorly based on physical appearance.

There is a world out there that would love to meet you if you only take the time.

I was out with friends when a stranger asked me, “How do you feel about people who treat you differently based on how you look?”

I was taken aback by that question because after 30 years, I had forgotten I look different.

This brought me back to primary school, where I was reminded of that fact every single day.

The Reality of Judgement

I know when people treat me differently.

I see their stares and can hear their words of judgement as I am walking down the street, living my life in the same way they are living theirs.

I start to doubt myself, instead believing that they are right in their judgement of me.

Their words can cut deeper than they will ever know.

But I view myself as no different from anyone else.

My family and friends see me as someone who is capable, intelligent and caring.

My friends know this because they took the time to get to know me, which very few had really done before them. 

Scratch Beneath the Surface

I am more capable than you might think.

I have my Certificate III in Business Studies.

I have developed a career that has gone from packaging to being a receptionist to being a content writer – all with Endeavour Foundation.

I grew in my career because I believed in myself, even when others did not.

To answer the stranger’s question, it does not feel great when people treat me differently because of my appearance.

Being Me

I am a son, a sibling, a neighbour and a friend.

I feel no different from anyone else. There is more to me than what you see.

I have a good brain. I might doubt myself, but I will not let that stop me.

I will continue to be me, which is more than what you may see.

Unleash Your Potential

Are you keen to live life your way?

Discover how Endeavour Foundation can help you reach your full potential – with a wide range of disability services.

Get in touch with us today.