These days, I write and talk for a living and when someone says I’ve done something well or they tell me I’ve told their story in an honest, fair and sympathetic way, I get a huge feeling of pride. I’ve always been that way. When I was sixteen, I worked in a shop and one day a woman came in with her disabled daughter and I helped them choose a Christmas present for the girl’s older brother. Afterwards the mum called the manager and told her that I’d made their day and the daughter wanted to “see the funny boy next week”. I mean, I think it was a compliment but the point is, the mum took the time to say something nice and constructive.
That’s what I try to do when I can, as a local guide. Tell people they’re doing great. Okay so, sometimes, I have a moan but I try to make it funny and interesting when I do. and sometimes I’ll write posts on WAY too much wine.
The point is, being a local guide shouldn’t be about attacking people and things we’ve found annoying; it should be about highlighting the places that really deserve visitors.
Last week I went to Center Parcs, Woburn Forest with my severely disabled sister-in-law and I didn’t write much but I took a moment to add some pics (which seem to be getting a weird number of views) and a nice little ‘thank you’ to the staff. The place was crazy expensive and, between me and you, it wasn’t my cup of tea, but I edited out all my gripes and just wanted to say how special the people there made Amy feel. Hopefully, it’ll reassure other parents and carers that disabled people will have a good time on holiday, just like everyone else.
Best wishes to the local guides team!
Andy xxx