In this final episode of Blind and Refined Season 1, John recounts lessons from his blindness training in Des Moines—where getting lost, quite literally, became a path to finding confidence and independence. Reflecting on how discomfort and challenge can refine us, he invites listeners to consider what has helped and hindered their own growth. With gratitude and humor, John and his guide dog Gibbs wrap up Season 1 with encouragement to keep growing, even when the way forward isn’t clear.

Cover artwork: Jennie Lodien

Editing assistance, Ann Powers and Wayne Hepler

Audio Editing: Reed Seely

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/christopher-galovan/peace-be-with-you
License code: 6BBTWLZGASK3QFNM

John reflects on the spiritual side of living with disability, likening it to tapping into a hidden artesian well that brings life and strength. He weaves together research on the benefits of spirituality, his own story of grief after the loss of his son, and the hope he finds in the teachings of Jesus. This episode points to a God who enters into human suffering and offers rest, resilience, and renewed perspective for the journey.

John tells the pivotal story of a clinic visit and a blunt, compassionate exchange that exposed his embarrassment about losing sight and pushed him toward acceptance — including the humbling but clarifying “confrontational” vision test and the suggestion to train with a white cane. He explains how naming feelings early, sharing them with trusted people (and caring for partners/caregivers), and embracing grief as a refining process helped him stop lashing out and begin healthier, braver steps forward.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/christopher-galovan/peace-be-with-you
License code: 6BBTWLZGASK3QFNM