My two little girls have, at various times asked me in that direct, curious way they would with anything that fascinates them “Daddy, what’s it like having one smaller hand?”….
In some ways it’s easy to answer as I don’t know any different. You could argue that a different path has been forged for me having CP from birth as opposed to an accident during my life, as I’ve grown into the condition. It has always been and will always be part of me, so I tell them I haven’t lost anything really, have I? I don’t think I have.
The challenge for me is not worrying about the size of my hand but more so how to grow into a life that is not designed around the way my body is structured…and I believe it is this very issue that so many (myself included) fight to rebalance and for society to take better notice of.
There is structure, a standard that is created that caters for many but not all and more voices need to be heard / understood to break through this.
So while yes, I gratefully state to my little girls, that I feel grateful to have not “lost” anything, I don’t want to miss things either. Opportunity in front of me, for them and for everybody – We need to find our path to get there.
My challenges I’m looking to explore in this world is how to make those opportunities even more accessible, even just by a little.
There are competing priorities in this world for sure, but its a valuable mission I can undertake to help make choices to ensure many I can help be heard. Through highlighting issues, celebrating progress or pain / challenges…one movement at a time.
DisabilityBodybuilding.com 