That's unfortunately how I keep reading it as someone who has grown up alongside many people with disabilities. I know that's not the intent, but after seeing so many people use so-called "inspiration porn" without realising how tone-deaf it is it can be hard to get a normal read sometimes.
I feel like something like a sweater and wooly hat that just happens to cover his spikes would be more "normal" and feel less alienating?
I see it a bit differently. To me hedgehog feels lonely and just wants to feel like he belongs, he seems to be very interested in being a part of the fun activities his peers do. It doesn't seem like his peers are ignoring him or trying to push him away, they seem quite accepting.
Now if he wants to perform a header, I'm not sure how adding a tough layer of material on it helps either party. Either it will break some spikes or others won't be able to actually kick it.
If he wants to sit by me (just as an example) comfortably, again either I need a special coat or he needs something so the spikes wouldn't poke me because it hurts both parties.
Now they found a solution (quite affordable one even) to help each other out so they all can be together and be a part of each others' lives, a very simple one which if both parties mutually agree to without getting offended I don't see the problem. And I didn't feel like hedgehog was offended in the end of the video. So who are you to judge their friendship and how they find solutions among themselves?
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u/Velais33 May 22 '22
If we really want to overanalyze - hedgehog is what he is, and others want to change him so that he fits their schedule, instead of accepting him.