You wonder how to answer this don't you? What you were you are no longer. Our lives today we are so entwined in our jobs careers, it really is how we measure ourselves and how others judge us.
I refuse to be powerlesss, to be looked on with pity. I prefer to be judged from a position of wonder and strength. my answer is always " I am retired" said of course with a smile. Now they are wondering not pitying me. I like them wondering much better. If I care which I often don't I will say "disabled". I do not need to explain myself, I can be vague, I will maintain my position of strength. I do not need to be pitied or be judged as weak.
I will maintain as much control over my environment as I possibly can. I have learned what to do and what not to do. I do not need the world to judge me, or to see any weakness. I will always give an appearance of strength and control. Do not mess with me ever. Keep people wondering,you do not have to admit your disability to all, it is ok to let them wonder. Wondering is good for them. be careful who you give your secret to all willy nilly.
Remember this is how I do it, it is just an idea to make you think.
Royce
from the drivers seat