Encouraging Words for People Affected by Disability
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!
