When I was in elementary school, a friend read one of the papers on my desk.
The words were all different sizes, jumbled, misaligned, with even a few floating letters.
But really, what was illegible to her made perfect sense to me.
It was the only way I knew how to write.
A few years later, our math teacher assigned students problems to solve in front of the class.
Meanwhile, other students were able to solve the problem on the spot within seconds.
Incidents like these were all too common.
I’ve always been told I am the problem.
But I’m not alone.
Although disability is part of the human experience, when one is undiagnosed, life can be a nightmare.
So many people are undiagnosed and shoulder the blame, suffering silently.
Understanding this led me to discover I have dysgraphia and dyscalculia.
No wonder math gave me panic attacks!
But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Imagine if we celebrated children who were different instead of trying to assume they should be the same.
If we supported their strengths, we could better understand their weaknesses.
If we leaned in with compassion, empathy, and curiosity.
What if instead of shunning one’s differences, we embrace all differences?
I just knew I had to work extra hard to do what seemed easy for others.
The truth really does set you free.
But we don’t really address the emotional needs on the inside of each person.
check that you focus on how youfeelbecause how you feel will inform what manifests on the outside.
I gave the shame back by reclaiming my own power.
I lead sold-out self-love retreats around the world.
I never let my setbacks or perceived flaws and insecurities stop me.
I’ve embraced my full self.
What is the dream tucked inside your heart?
The takeaway
While not everyone struggles with a disability, we all have struggles.
Learning to be kinder to others can help us all go a long way.
The next time you think about yelling at someone for their perceived shortcomings, stop and pause.
They could have something going on that you know nothing about.
Choose curiosity, support, and love.
Our diversity is what makes us strong.
