i have a disability that becomes obvious when you meet me. i don't really think about myself as a disabled person and i do everything everyone else does. It's something parallel to missing an arm but I am not missing any limbs, just a similar example. People are often curious and have questions.
I am a professional and am happy with any questions about it but i struggle with how to respond to well meaning but patronising comments.
"Good on you, never feel like you shouldn't be in the room. Keep showing up."
"You don't have to worry about that (being discriminated against?) at all, none of us here are judging you in any way"
"awww that's such a shame isn't it"
"Our team has just had diversity and inclusion training, so you're very welcome here"
i feel so normal that these comments really other me and are disempowering. I don't feel sad or insecure about my condition at all. But hate these sorts of comments.
I'm not looking to call them out or shame them. i am looking for some clever and witty responses that don't make the other person feel bad but also shut down the sympathy or hero responses.