On the level....what does that mean? A child is on the level when he or she appears to function within "normal" parameters according to his or her age group. When a friend asks you to answer their questions on the level, they want you to be open to trust them. It implies that he or she has a secure connection with you that others have not acquired. People are always trying to be on the level. They always want to feel special, needed, and important. Each individual has their own set of rules, but really it's the same. We are always looking ahead to what is bigger, better, tougher and faster. Even physically, we are trained to look and behave on the level. Those things we see eye to eye get our attention first. Peep holes, door numbers, doorbells, windows, and counters are all at the level of a standing person. So in social situations, People are not naturally attracted to disabled people. Why? Their view is right over our heads. It's a whole different view from where I sit. People think that being in a relationship with a disabled person requires more than what they are normally willing to give. Most people are hesitant. They want to test the waters first. Being a friend of a disabled person requires you to jump in with both feet. It requires you to be uncomfortable, inconvenienced, ingenious and sensitive. People treat people differently that they need to look down to when communicating. It gives the standing person a position of superiority. In adult settings, children are quickly dismissed. To a greater or lesser degree, so are the disabled. Non-disabled people have to make a conscious effort in order to befriend a disabled person.
Generally, people don't go out of their circles when seeking relationships unless they are looking for a mate. They have their family. They make friends through their work. They make connections with parents of their children's friends in various social situations. School, sports, dance classes, etc. Let's take an average disabled person living independently. ... They may or may not have family depending on their age. Many do not work. Many are single, but still hanging onto hope that love will come. No kids. Hmmmm what does that leave? Homecare workers and maybe a few neighbors if any at all. It is very isolating. You are left alone to find your own way into the walking world which isn't wheelchair acceptable.
