I am Differently- Abled!

In my opinion, the word disability is such a condescending term. I admit that I often use the word disability to describe my Cerebral Palsy. Because it is a commonly used term, we tend not to think about what the word disability really means. Cerebral Palsy has left me with some physical limitations that at times can be difficult to forget, this is why it is important that I take the time to focus on what I can do rather than what I can't do. Cerebral Palsy has in certain ways affected my ability to physically preform daily activities on the same level as those around me. However, even though Cerebral Palsy has presented me with some challenges, it does not mean that I don't have many other abilities and talents. It is human nature to automaticallly focus on the negatives in our lives because, it is much easier to focus on the negative aspects then to stop and ponder what we as individuals are good at.

When people meet for the first time, my wheelchair is the first thing they see. People with disabilities should not be recognized for their challenges. Yes, I have Cerebral Palsy, but I also have many other talents and abilities to offer the world. I think that the word differently- abled applies to everyone, not just to people with disabilities. Everyone has challenges. No one is perfect, but I we all have different strengths and talents despite our personal challenges. The beauty of this wonderful life is that we are all blessed with the gift of choice. We have a choice to either be angry, or to happy with what we have been given. How we react to our own personal challenges whether it be positively or negatively determines the quality of our life. I went through a stage in my life where I had an extremely difficult time indentifying the positive aspects of my life. I eventually was able to acknowledge that I have Cerebral Palsy and, I will still have it when I am old and gray. I realized that I don't have to live my life as though I have a physical disability. Rather than choosing to be angry about my circumstances, I have decided use each one of my experiences and turn them into something positive by encouraging others to keep moving forward, even when life proves to be challenging!

In many ways, I am the same as most girls my age. I have a job working at a daycare, which I absolutely love and, I am a college student who love sports, scrapbooking, hanging out with friends and family and helping others.I want to be able to show others that our challenges do not have to define who we are.