We must tell our story again and again. Once is not enough. We need to tell family, friends, professionals, that our lives have meaning and purpose, and we want to be listened to, and be treated with dignity and respect. Just saying it once is not enough. People are locked into their stereotypes and tunnel vision, and see us in predetermined ways. Many have judged us before we can say a single word. That is why we have to repeat our mantra to others and be patient for it to sink in. We must be consistent in telling others what we want and what makes us unhappy. If we don’t make it clear what offends us, people will continue to treat us the same old way, and we will go on being unhappy. When we are unhappy, sooner or later others will catch on to it and no one is happy. We want to prevent all this from happening. So let’s remember communication happens more than once, It is ongoing, and in the long run, helps people see past their stereotypes and see us as who we really are.