Follow-up Discussion

1. What improvements were noticed in the second version? Possible answers:

The characters spoke directly to Ronnie and addressed her by name.

Sarah knew enough about blindness to recognize that Ronnie could not see her, and she did not shy away from asking her about it.

The characters spoke to Ronnie with normal volume.

Meghan did not try to take hold of Ronnie to guide her to the field.

Both Jeff and Aaron realized their mistakes with Ronnie and apologized without becoming overly self-effacing. In other words, their reactions to Ronnie were normal, which avoided unnecessary embarrassment for her.

Everyone maintained a relaxed spirit of humor, easing what could have been a series of awkward moments.

The characters were sophisticated enough to realize that Ronnie could indeed play soccer in spite of her impairment. Jeff's misunderstanding of her comment, "I really can't," was simply a misinterpretation; and no one was surprised to learn that the real reason was her "two left feet."

2. What about Ronnie's mother? Was she there for Ronnie or herself? Did she appear to be overprotective? Would your mother have done the same thing? Do you think her presence was detrimental to Ronnie in any way?

This question will generate much lively discussion among young people.

3. What "Rules of Blind Etiquette" were not encountered in the play, and why?

Rules #11 and #12 are important for people who have little or no vision at all and must relay upon a cane or a guide dog. Remember, however, that people like Ronnie are able to see peripherally, so they do not usually need to rely upon mobility aids. While this seems like a blessing, having no visible indication of their condition can cause awkward social situations which can sometimes be difficult to explain.

Rules #4, #5, and #7 are also important mainly for people in the totally-blind community. While able to handle their lives very well by learning alternate strategies, these rules are simply decent social courtesies which will help to make things a bit easier.

4. What can we learn from this play that will also help us relate to people who have physical impairments? Possible answers:

Try to learn something about their condition by asking them about it, asking someone else about it, or looking it up.

Try to imagine ourselves in their place (empathy).

Remember that "impaired" is how they are, not who they are.

Keep in mind that an impaired person has most likely come to deal with his or her condition very well, and it is our challenge to try doing the same.

Remain positive in their presence, but also remain realistic. They are.

Be honest, but tactful.

Allow them to do for themselves.

Understand if they are moody at times, but watch for signs of depression.

Like Ronnie, keep your sense of humor, because laughter truly may be the only medicine.

To The Rules of Blind Etiquette