Response To 'Cripple' By Nancy Mairs

In the passage, Nancy Mairs informs readers on how she is aware of her condition, and how she feels calling herself “crippled” best defines her situation. According to Mairs, “‘cripple’ seems to me a clean word, straightforward and precise.” Although Mairs doesn't mind being called “crippled”, she understands there are other words used to describe someone who might have a similar condition. Mairs proves to be a smart and straightforward person when discussing a topic that others might find uncomfortable. Mairs discusses how she doesn't like to be called “differently abled,” “disabled,” or “handicapped”. Mairs states how these words aren't specific, or descriptive. When talking about the word “crippled,”
Mairs states, “I like the accuracy with which it describes my condition.” This is a statement that shows readers what kind of person Mairs is, which is tough. Overall, Mairs presents herself as a smart, strong individual. She continues to use the word “crippled” throughout the passage to show readers how she has come to accept her condition, and she doesn't want to use any euphemisms to make it seem less than what it is. The passage can be seen as motivational when reading about how tough Mairs has been. Out of all the different words that could be used to describe her situation, she calls herself “crippled”.