It Doesn't Have to Be Elusive!

Inhale confidence. Exhale doubt. This is perhaps one of the most elusive challenges we face as human beings; so many of us struggle with this.

There have been countless times where I have wondered how I was going to live a meaningful and fulfilling life from a wheelchair. It took me a long time to realize that I do not have to do anything big to live a life that’s meaningful. I truly believe that success in life is not measured by our abilities and accomplishments. I have found meaning by living every day to the fullest. Life is about doing the best we can with what we have been given.

This week, I want to share this thought with you:

A meaningful life is not being rich, it’s not about being popular, highly educated or perfect. It is about being real, being humble, being strong and being able to share ourselves and touch the lives of others

I think what makes this such an elusive challenge is that we live in a world where we tend to judge others, rather than celebrate each other’s differences in qualities, traits and lifestyle

But it doesn’t have to be difficult. One of my friends shared his thoughts about equality so eloquently on Facebook yesterday. I was moved by his words of wisdom. He wrote: “To all Canadians of Muslim faith: I like you. I love you. I like you being here. Please don’t leave this country. Please continue to practice your faith. Please continue to honor your traditions. Please don’t change. Please move into my neighborhood, right next door. Please come to my home and share food at my table. Let your child play with my child. Let you and I share stories. I am sorry for the intolerance that you endure. I like you. I love you.”

Can you imagine if we thought of everyone with this mentality? I know that for some people, this may be controversial, but we all deserve to be with dignity and respect. Let’s help people exhale the doubt in their life, allowing them to be comfortable and confident in their own skin.