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Monday, April 23, 2012

Backpack


I used to think that I wasn't qualified to use the word "disabled." What could I possibly know about being disabled?

Then a man with cerebral palsy taught me that each of us carries a backpack, some heavier than others. For a few people, the backpack is obvious. For others only hinted at. And some may not even be aware of carrying one. 

But we all do. 

He taught me that we disable ourselves when we do drugs or abuse alcohol. Or when we don’t participate or when we condemn others. Or when we lack gratitude. He argued that lying and fighting and criticizing and blaming disables us. He suggested that trying to be perfect or trying to control or manipulate others disables us too.

He helped me see how disabled so many people are. Especially me. He helped me see my backpack. He helped me figure out how to loosen the straps.

8 comments:

Alittlesprite said...

Some backpacks are there but are invisible to everyone but the owner. People don't understand or, judge what they can't see. My Husband and Son have to go through this every day.

Alistair said...

Remembering this will help lighten the load.

Cheers bro!

HeatherL said...

One cool thing about backpacks...they can be shared and others can help shoulder the burden.

Unknown said...

This is awesome. Funny how each new weight feels unbearable at first, but how it eventually makes us stronger.

Sultan said...

Nicely done.

wendy said...

Oh my...perfect for me today my friend.
we ALL carry that backpack.
this post gives us a whole different perspective to look at.
wonderful !!!

Laura Ashe said...

Two thumbs up.

michael.offworld said...

When the student is ready, the teacher appears.

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