July is Disability Pride Month | Be Happy in your own Skin

I do not usually consider pride to be a good thing to have, but in this case the word “pride” is necessary.

July is Disability Pride Month and it is time that people with disabilities be proud of who they are.

People with disabilities are constantly seen as less of a person just because they are different. Society sees a disability as something to be ashamed of.

I have a disability myself as I am visually impaired.

When I think of being proud of being disabled I do not mean have an arrogant or conceited attitude, because that solves nothing. When I think of pride, i think of coming to a place where you are happy in your own skin.

I think it means stepping out into the world confidently using your white cane.

I think it means going out into the world confidently in your wheelchair or crutches or hearing aids or any other assistive device.

Disability pride is sharing your life and gifts with society even when you are told you don’t belong.

So to everyone with a disability: do not let other people’s comments keep you down. We are here with a purpose and we have unique gifts to contribute to society.

Take pride in your unique life and shine!

I wrote this poem to encourage myself and others not to be ashamed of using a white cane.

I hope that this post will encourage any one that has a disability. Remember you are valuable and wonderfully created by God.

Psalm 139:14 KJV — I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.