You Are Not a Burden

You are not a burden when you ask for documents in a format you can read.

You are not a burden when you need them to clear the accessible changing room.

You are not a burden when you assert your right to enter a business with your service dog.

You are not a burden when you take time to speak, because forming the words feels impossible in this moment.

You are not a burden when they don’t know how to sign and have to wait for you to finish writing down your message.

You are not a burden when you ask for a straw.

You are not a burden, even if they make you feel like you are. When they sigh, or dismiss you, turning to the person with you to ask what you need. You are not a burden for needing to access things in ways others do not. You are a whole human being and you matter.