Finally! I Was Diagnosed With Poor Person Blindness, Here’s How That Disability Affects Me

Lately, it seems like I’ve finally found an answer to the eternal question: why do I find it so hard to see people who are less fortunate than me, until just before I hit them with my SUV? It’s not because I’m a snob or that I’ve been living in a bubble of privilege; no, it’s much deeper than that. I have Poor Person Blindness! I know, I know, it’s a real thing, and it’s a disability. I’m sure it’s the only explanation for why I can’t seem to spot those people at the food bank who are getting a free meal, or why I always seem to miss the beggars on the street corner who are holding a sign that says “Please help! I’m starving!”

This disability has been a real game-changer for me. I used to think I was just being my normal, progressive, socially conscious self, but no, it turns out I’m actually unable to see poverty because I’m afflicted with Poor Person Blindness. It’s like I have a mental filter that prevents me from processing images of poor people. It’s not my fault, of course! It’s society’s fault for not doing enough to make me aware of the existence of poverty.

I know what you’re thinking: “But Karen, if you can’t see poor people, how do you know you have Poor Person Blindness?” Well, it’s quite simple, really. I know because I’ve been experiencing symptoms for years. Every time I’m asked to donate to a charity or volunteer at a local soup kitchen, I get anxious. Every time I see a homeless person, I feel guilty. And every time I’m confronted with the reality of systemic inequality, I… well, I get triggered and start ranting about how it’s all the Republicans’ fault.

But seriously, this disability has been a real challenge for me. I mean, I want to help, but I just can’t seem to see the problem. It’s like I’m living in a world that’s completely unaware of the suffering of others. And it’s not just me – everyone I know is also affected by this condition. That’s why I’m taking to social media to raise awareness and ask for your help. I’m tired of people not understanding my lived experiences, and I’m tired of being judged for not being able to see the things neurotypicals do.

So, I implore you, dear readers: if you encounter someone who has Poor Person Blindness, don’t be judgmental. Don’t tell them to open their their eyes to the suffering of others. Just listen to them. Educate yourself for once. And most importantly, don’t microagress them by telling them they’re being insensitive. Maybe you’re insensitive, poor people. I don’t know, because I can’t see you.