The struggles of the disabled

Johann Kirsten

5

I have had the privilege to see some people work with disabled people, and according to me, they are heaven-sent. The fact that they chase that kind of occupation is a decision directed by God. I have the utmost respect for them, because I cannot imagine the struggles they have to go through each day, and it must be emotionally and physically draining. To see them work and handle each and every situation until it is resolved is commendable. Not everyone will be able to do what these people do. One thing is certain, when one works with disabled people, there is never a dull moment.

To my fellow disabled: Embrace your uniqueness. You can change your obstacles into opportunities. Your value is not determined by what you look like. Your value is not determined by what you can do, or how smart you are. It is not about what you end up having or what you end up achieving. Life needs not to be bad because of what you look like. You should make the choice to either rise above your circumstances, or to be angry at the world because of it. Learn to love yourself. I have learned to look past my disability, so you can too.

Being disabled does not mean you are useless. This is the beautiful thing: When you realise that God loves you just the way you are. God has a plan, hope and a future for your life. You may not understand what God has in store for you, but look at what he has given you. Every human being has a purpose on earth, which is to expand God’s kingdom with your lifestyle and to show love to others through care and support.

Rather concentrate on the good things in life, because when you concentrate on the bad, life will get worse for you than it already is.