From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love – Ephesians 4:16
“I just worry, you know. Well, no, more question, really, whether she can adapt.” “Don’t we have to ask ourselves the same thing?” “Yeah. But I’m not the one with the diagnosis.” “But it goes both ways. Shouldn’t we make the same effort to understand and accommodate her as she does with us?” This conversation is between two detectives during an episode of PBS’ Patience, one of whom has befriended and exposed her colleagues to the extraordinary analytical capabilities of an autistic records clerk named Patience.
Blinders, for the sake of this conversation, are biases that obscure judgment, blinding the person to someone’s valuable traits by fixating their attention on what is insignificant. This is demonstrated in the treatment shown towards Patience despite her remarkable insight, which was credited with solving complex murder investigations. Nehemiah was one of several individuals in the Bible who faced similar biases, particularly during the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s Wall. However, he chose to remain focused on fulfilling his task: “So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6).
While blinders may conceal the value embedded in every person regardless of differences, they will likewise hide personal insecurities. Believing everyone has a contribution to make aligns with God’s Word and His belief about everyone.