Good morning there, big man.

Good morning, Alice!

There's no need to be awkward.

Poor Bob.

Like so many of us, he just doesn't know how to interact with people with disabilities.

It's pretty easy, really.

People with disabilities are people first.

We need the same things that every person needs, like respect. Good morning, everyone.

Attention!

Uh, okay.

Maybe we need to be more specific.

The easiest way to show respect is to focus on the person, not the disability.

It's okay.

You'll get the hang of it. One easy way to focus on the person is to watch the person signing and not their interpreter or their companion.

It's really cool that you'd like to help, but do us both a favor and please ask me first.

Would you think might be helping?

I got you.

Wait, wait, ah!

Oh, no.

Might actually not.

If you'd like to offer me help, let me hold onto your elbow.

Don't take mine.

Hey, would you like to take mine?

Sure. Assistive devices help us to live our lives.

They're really important and really personal.

Grabbing them only makes it weird for everyone.

What?

Please only touch our devices and service animals if we've given you permission.

And don't take it personally if I ask you not to.

Remember that my service animal helps me all the time.

Neither of us would like it if we were separated.

Remember, we make our own decisions.

We sign documents, vote, volunteer, work, and pay taxes.

We get married.

So don't touch me just because I have a great smile.

Just because I'm blind...

May I help you?

Does not mean I'm deaf.

Just because I'm deaf...

Doesn't mean I'm blind.

And just because I use a wheelchair...

Doesn't mean that I can't sweep you off your feet. So take a deep breath, relax, we don't bite.

Unless we're really hungry.

Hello, ladies, how are you?

Hello.

And if you're not sure what to do, just ask.

Hi, would you still like to see a menu?

Uh, no thanks, but can you please read it to me?

Sure, definitely.

Just treat us the way you would want to be treated, and we'll all be okay. Good morning.

Good morning.

Good morning, Alice.

Good morning.

Awkward no more.

Nice job, Bob.

Go forth and be... human.