Acceptance of yourself with cerebral palsy is right here. Firstly, cerebral palsy never disappears because there isn’t a cure. As a child, I thought when I turned 18, I wouldn’t have cerebral palsy again. I don’t know logically why I thought this. As I grew, I knew a cure wouldn’t happen, but still I dreamed. Sometimes I meet people that think God chooses certain people to have disabilities and somehow we are stronger than others. Or, we have a thicker skin than people without disabilities. It’s not the case. We are all human beings and should find acceptance of ourselves.
I daydreamed what it would be like if I suddenly didn’t have cerebral palsy. As a child, I’d first want to go to my grandparents. I’d vision them opening the door and running in their arms. Even in college, I’d daydream that I’d go to my house and surprise my dad. The joy on his face overwhelmed me. I believe that I didn’t fully have acceptance of myself.
For instance, I daydream in Mass. I picture Jesus standing in front of me and holding out a hand. Quickly, I raise my hand to His to stand up. My kids come hugging me. I feel full acceptance. Unfortunately, now they’re too old to pick up (that used to be my vision – to pick them up and swing them around.)
Acceptance is in March
I believe there is a reason why my daydreams changed over time. I’m an ordinary person that happens to have cerebral palsy. However, I believe Jesus is telling me something. Without a doubt, I will walk with Him. I will feel all the amazing feelings that come without cerebral palsy – being completely physically independent. Everything I want will happen, if I choose to stay close to Him. However, now I am exactly who I should be with cerebral palsy.
March is cerebral palsy awareness month. Time to show acceptance. March 25 is cerebral palsy awareness day. A lot of us spend years focusing on changing ourselves to be cured of our disability. Instead, we should be using our time on Earth to be the best person we are with a disability. Jesus is within us – everyone with or without a disability. We are made for greatness, if we choose to live with greatness.
Finally, begin by looking at yourself differently. Look at your abilities and fall in love with your challenges. Self pity is not necessary because you are exactly who you’re supposed to be.
