Why Me?

Growing up with a disability you would think there would be many "why me" moments, right? Why do I have to be stuck in this wheelchair? Why do I have to have multiple surgeries? Why do I have to work so much harder to physically do what all my peers do effortlessly?

That is what I think anyone would expect for someone with a disability to deal with mentally.

Not me!

Now, I would be lying if I said I never had a boo hoo moment, but to be honest, I can only remember one and I was in elementary school. After a few minutes of complaining to my father, all was right with the world again. I think I just had to vent.

I think, no, I KNOW, my attitude towards having a disability was instilled in me by my family. I am the only one in my family that has a disability, but I was never treated as if I did. I lived by the same expectations everyone else had. I was taught that yes, I may have to do some things in a different way, but nine times out of ten, there is ALWAYS a way.

I laugh to myself when I hear people jumping on the "why me" band wagon over the most trivial of things. I believe we all deserve our pitty parties, but I also believe that it is a positive attitude in yourself, a solid support system and your faith that will get you through whatever obsticle/s you're facing.

So why me?

I like to think that I was meant to be in this wheelchair for a number of different reasons.

Why me? Because perhaps, if people get to know me, the real me, not what they see on the outside; they may realize that they shouldn't judge people's character or abilities by their outside appearance.

Why me? Maybe I can help lead the way for others with disabilities to accomplish their goals and dreams.

Why me? Because when families with children that have a disability meet me and I can be an inspiration to them and help ease their worries about their child's future.

So the next time you are having a "why me" moment. Try to turn it around and think of the positive that could come out of it and ask yourself,

"Why not me?"