Encouraging Words for People Affected by Disability

By |Published On: April 13, 2018|Categories: Uncategorized|

People with disabilities often face discouragement. Whether it’s news of a terrible diagnosis, lack of understanding, or the reality of the day-to-day routines of caregiving, a genuine word of encouragement from a friend can make all the difference. We’ve gathered a few quotes and ideas to help you cheer up a friend, even when you may not know what to say.

Encouraging quotes from others:

We pray these quotes will inspire you to encourage someone with a disability, special needs, or chronic illness:

  • “Perseverance is not a long race. It is many short races one after another.” – Walter Elliott
  • “Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn’t mean he lacks vision.” – Stevie Wonder
  • “Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you … as by the attitude you bring to life.” – John Homer Mills
  • “Go as far as you can see; when you get there, you’ll be able to see further.” – Thomas Carlyle
  • “Children remind us to treasure the smallest of gifts, even in the most difficult times.” – Allen Klein
  • “The best we can hope for in this life is a knothole peek at the shining realities ahead. Yet a glimpse is enough. It’s enough to convince our hearts that whatever sufferings and sorrows currently assail us aren’t worthy of comparison to that which waits over the horizon.” – Joni Eareckson Tada

Encouraging words for you to say:

When praising someone affected by a disability, be specific and authentic. Acknowledge their accomplishments and tell them how they’ve inspired you. Here are some examples:

  • “I truly admire the way you patiently repeat instructions to your child.”
  • “The way in which you handled your bad medical report helped me keep my calm when I lost my job.”
  • “You’ve come far with your physical therapy; I can tell you’re trying very hard to regain mobility in your arm and I know that must take a lot of effort.”
  • “I am honored to be your friend and I value our friendship.”

Do you have any encouraging quotes that have inspired you? Share them in the comments!

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