Today I experienced something so profound, it was simply amazing.I always get on my knees and thank God for all my experiences. I get to do soo many wonderful things in my career and I will have to say that this journey today was at the top of my list.

My group for the Dialog in the Dark tour

I was invited out to experience Dialog in the Dark. At first I had no clue what it was and almost cancelled because of some other things that was going on. After working some minor issues out, I then headed down to the event.

James Bashears III and I

I met with a small group of 9 people and everyone was wondering what was about to happen. We all introduced ourselves as we headed into a semi lit room. I only knew one person in the group and that was James Bashears. They gave us all sticks that you see most blind people use. We listened to instructions and I noticed that the room started getting dimmer and dimmer. Soon we were emerged in full darkness. As I type this, I have my eyes closed because I can tell the story better lol.

Our tour guide, Willard

When I tell you, you could see nothing at all, you really couldn’t! I started to panic and was breathing heavily because I hate being in the dark, plus I don’t like surprises. I’ve never been in a haunted house either and I quickly thought this is what it must be like lol.

A guy started talking to us by the name of Willard. He told us he would be our tour guide and that we were in safe hands. He had us listen to his directions and to follow his voice. I wanted to give up and walk out because I am a scary a** but then I just switched into survival mode really quick!

Lisa Swanson and Willard

We then entered several rooms and touched and felt around. At first we bumped into each other and we laughed. I was the loudest in the bunch saying, “what in the hell did I get myself into” lol. My friend James has a very deep toned voice, so I kept finding him and holding on for dear life. He adapted very well to the environment and was finding things in the room that others couldn’t. He was naming things and laughing, I was not so lucky at first.

We went into I think 5 different rooms, that would remind you of everyday life. A grocery store, city streets, a cruise ship, a jazz club, a park. It started getting fun now! After the first room, you adapted pretty well. We all started to know each others voice and helping each other. I’m not going to tell yah too much more but if you live in the Atlanta area or plan to visit, please stop by the Dialog in the Dark. You will love the experience, I sure did! I also want to thank Willard for being my tour guide. He was Pinktastic and shared with us how he lost his sight to diabetes a year and a half ago. He still remembered my voice too. I have a high pitched tone voice. Once the tour ended, we were all in the lobby when I saw him leaving. I said bye to him and he said, “that’s Tami, see you dear and tell a friend to come”. I felt so helpless because there he left in total darkness, while I was able to see. Count your blessings friends. Thanks to Abigail and Marsha from MSquaredPR for inviting me out! I had a wonderful time and experience!

For more info please visit: www.dialog.com