Being Disabled Can Look Like..
Its so hard for me to not compare myself to other creators, especially those around my age. I see my social media flooded with what looks like others achieving their dreams, milestones, goals, and I’m celebrating being able to take care of myself today. This makes me feel so silly and stupid, it feels like I’m lying to myself. I’d even go so far as to say it feels like I’m gaslighting myself for being proud of braiding my hair. But the truth is, if I’m not proud of myself for being able to do things for this, no wonder it feels impossible and pointless to even try something like prepping and baking a casserole for meals this week. Why? Because it feels insignificant to all the videos I see of homemade pasta, marry me chicken, these beautifully plated dishes, and new recipes that are really intriguing. But if I can’t be proud of myself today, how can I expect myself to be proud for making a dish that my body will need day(s) to recover from? I can see my brain now wanting to undermine that achievement by saying something like “thousands of other people probably made the same thing you did tonight while going to work, the gym, and managing a family.” So I’m choosing to challenge that by radically celebrating every SINGLE struggle I have as a #disabled person who wants nothing more than to be my own biggest cheerleader. I’m celebrating myself, I’m doing the pep talks in the mirrors, morning #mantras hyping myself up, creating safe spaces to feel the reoccurring grief of the life and body I once had. This will not be perfect, pretty, or easy, but I hope you choose to come along for the journey. Because one day I will have the unshakable confidence to know I’m worth celebrating and am worthy for simply existing on this big floating rock.
Being disabled is often misunderstood, but it can also involve remarkable moments of joy and celebration. It's about recognizing the achievements that many may take for granted, like making the bed or taking care of personal hygiene. Each small milestone contributes to one’s overall well-being and confidence. Embracing these victories can transform experiences of disability into a celebration of resilience and strength. The journey of acknowledging small wins is not just about self-acceptance but also about creating a community where such achievements are recognized. Sharing these experiences on social media can foster connections with others navigating similar paths, emphasizing the value of support and understanding. Whether through hashtags like #disabled or #healing, individuals can find camaraderie and encouragement in their unique struggles. Moreover, it's essential to understand that everyone's journey is different. What might seem insignificant to one person could be monumental to another. By shifting our perspective to celebrate personal growth, we cultivate a healthier mindset that values progress over perfection. Empowering oneself and others to acknowledge their struggles and celebrate their capabilities fosters an environment of love and acceptance. In summary, living with a disability comes with its unique challenges, but it also opens up opportunities for profound self-reflection and growth. By celebrating each step, no matter how small, individuals can begin to redefine their narratives and embrace their worth in this world.
You are so strong! Those are big victories when going through things. You are awesome!