The Power of Dreams...

Dreams…

Dreams are what keep us going! The other day, I crossed one of my dreams off my bucket list. I got to ride a motorcycle for the first time. It was by far one of the most amazing things I have ever done. When racing down the highway on a motorcycle, it literally feels as though nothing else in the world matters. It was the perfect escape, (unless of course that sort of thing scares the crap out of you). As for me, I am a self- proclaimed adrenaline junkie. While the wind rushed through my helmet, I felt free. Like I was flying.

Throughout my life, I have come to the realization that our dreams eventually evolve into our personal goals. They become our motivation. One of my dreams has always been to be as independent as possible, despite my disability. Independence is something that I have had to fight for my entire life. My lifelong dream of being an independent, strong young woman has become my motivation, in the sense that I want to do everything in my power to ensure that all people with different abilities are given every opportunity to live a fulfilled life. For a long time, I was so bound and determined to be independent to the point where, I was too proud to ask for help. In order to make my dreams a reality, I need to be able to accept help, because I cannot do everything on my own. I don’t think anyone can. We all need support in one way or another. About a month ago now, I agreed to do an article for one of our local newspapers about the lack of support that is available for people with disabilities, specifically Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) funding. Many people, including myself are unable to receive this support, simply because of our intelligence. Since the article initially surfaced, I have corresponded and met with several individuals who are facing the same struggle. I decided to speak out on this issue, simply because I can relate. I know what it’s like to feel trapped in your own body. I can identify with being completely exhausted because I exerted all of my energy trying to complete simple, everyday tasks independently. Earlier this week, I heard a thought provoking analogy. If you pull on the ends of one pencil, it will snap in half. However, a group of stronger than one. It will not break. Because of this, I am confident that I will one day see my dream become a reality.

I want to live in a world where everyone receives the support they need to live the life they always dreamed of. A world where everyone feels free. A world where we all feel like we are riding on the back of a motorcycle.