I’ve often noticed that people judge me fast, and they make many assumptions before knowing me. There’s a lot in my life that, being differently abled, I need a bit of assistance with. For example, I can use a knife and fork, but quite often I need help in cutting my food. Very often, I will do a few things a little differently from an average person, yet still quite efficiently. But the most irritating is when people assume that I am not capable of doing it and apart take me like: “You can’t do this; let’s go with my option.” They don’t even give me a chance to try, to show them what I am capable of doing. I found out that people tend to overestimate or underestimate my abilities based on the fact that I am the one who best knows what I’m capable and incapable of.
For those of us who are differently abled, people facing mental health challenges, and others who may feel misunderstood, there’s just more to life. We live in a hurrying world where not too many people take the time to understand who we are or what we are capable of. Quite often, it is easier for them to point at what I can’t do instead of paying attention to what I can do. Sometimes the snapping of judgment by observation feels exhaustive, like one is in an investigating committee proving one’s worth all the time or explaining oneself in this world. Sometimes, it’s hard to feel truly seen for one’s self.
What people don’t always see are the unique ways that I’m able to contribute. There are only so many things I am capable of doing, and I do appreciate a little support in that endeavour. Never am I alone in this struggle as I have God to see me through. When others did not even believe in me, His strength and guidance gave me the guts to go on.
He has made me believe that I am enough, in all my strengths, challenges, and dreams.
One of the most powerful truths that has entered my life, and which I managed to catch on to, is that God sees and values every part of me, even when others do not. Comforting is Psalm 46:1, reminding me, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” Just the feeling of it makes me so at peace, knowing with everything that people may be passing judgment on me, His understanding and support are without end. It is through the belief in God’s purpose for my life every day. Every experience, be it an uphill struggle or a victory, has a purpose that may elude me but is known to God. Through these experiences, I am drawing strength, resilience, and patience. Probably, by listening to my journey, they will get the idea that being differently-abled isn’t all about limitation. It’s about what we can do with courage and love, with the right support. If you’ve ever felt invisible, criticized, or maybe even misunderstood, you are not alone. God sees and knows your heart; He values you completely. Keep going, keep believing-you have a unique purpose to fulfill, and nobody else can do that.