Winter Wheat

As I think back on the events of this week, I'm reminded of a quote by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who was part of the women's movement and one of my all-time favorite people in history.  In my mind, it applies to the circumstances we find ourselves in this week.  I found comfort in these words and they definitely resonated with my feelings as I tried to find the silver lining in my true sadness about the election.  She said, "“We are sowing winter wheat, which the coming spring will see sprout and which other hands than ours will reap and enjoy.”

Have a good weekend, everyone.

A Reminder of Thanksgiving

I came across an article that truly shows a person can go far if they use God-given talents to the best of their abilities.  I thought that this was a fitting article in light of the Thanksgiving season.  Especially at this time of year, I often think about my abilities and gifts and am truly grateful for them.  I hope you all have a wonderful holiday and get to spend it with loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving!

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/jnu-student-with-cerebral-palsy-completes-phd/article7893750.ece

An Act of Kindness

I saw this inspiring article this evening, and decided to post it for this week’s blog.  As you know, I love stories that show the true essence of the human spirit!

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/09/25/mcdonalds-employee-disabled-customer-eat-alone/72789400/

Have a great weekend, everyone!

P.S  Clicking on the link of this story doesn't seem to work, but if you copy and paste into your address box, it's worth the read.  Thanks!

All She Wants to Do is Dance

I saw this inspiring article this morning, and decided to post it for this week’s blog.  As you know, I love stories that show the true essence of the human spirit!

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3029264/Teenager-cerebral-palsy-proves-disability-doesnt-define-inspirational-video.html

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Independence at its Zenith

Happy 4^th, everyone!  I hope you all have a marvelous weekend planned.  In celebration of this holiday, I decided to post this very inspiring girl who had a dream and accomplished it.  A great reminder of what Independence Day means to all.

Have a great weekend!

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/This+Room+Overcoming+disabilities+apartment+offers+independence+accessibility/11170099/story.html

A Movie Theater with a Mission

If you haven’t seen the following, this is a very inspiring clip that warmed my heart, and I hope it does yours, too.  Enjoy!

http://www.nbcnews.com/feature/making-a-difference/movie-theater-mission-employing-disabled-n313021

A Good Read

I came upon an interesting article about the benefits of horseback riding for those who have special needs.  Having rode for years myself, I know this article is true.  This is a very interesting read for those who are interested.

Happy New Year, everyone!

http://www.hibbingmn.com/news/local/no-horsing-around/article_cd494e48-9220-11e4-8b59-0b33fde6ffdb.html

Amazing Artist

A friend showed me this video and I was truly amazed.  I hope you are as inspired as I when watching this clip.

Have a good weekend, everyone!

Inspirational Feats

Hi all!  I hope you had a fantastic week and survived the snow.  Hopefully, spring is just around the corner!

Today, I found this inspirational news clip that brought a smile to my face and hopefully, it will to yours, too!

Thank you for your consistent support.  I’m off to a great start to my final semester, and knowing readers enjoy perusing my posts adds to my joy of writing.

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Ido in Autismland

Today, as I began to do some preliminary research on the book Ido in Autismland, my first assignment for United Cerebral Palsy this summer, the universal truth struck me again that our inner being comes from the same vein.  Although I knew this concept, wading through the research today only reinforced the fact.  It is pertinent not to judge someone outwardly, as many are apt to do.  Even without reading the entire book, I have the sense that I’m in for a treat.  Indeed, I’m looking forward to reading this heartwarming story!

Perseverance

Hi,

This is another inspirational clip I thought you would all enjoy.  It really shows what real perseverance means, at least, it does for me!

I hope you have a good weekend!

Blessings

Everyday, but especially at this time of year, I consider all the blessings I have in my life.  Usually, the list includes a great Mom, wonderful friends and overall a super life, but there is one thing about Cerebral Palsy that affects some who have the condition.  It is not one of the challenges I face.

In my English class, we were assigned to do an “Interest Group” project.  My partner and I decided to research the link between literacy and Cerebral Palsy.  Going into the project, I assumed everyone with Cerebral Palsy had the same literacy abilities I have or close.  Surprisingly, though, I came to the realization that this was not the case.  Sadly, literacy for some who have Cerebral Palsy is a dream, which never comes true.  This week, I feel especially lucky that I had grandparents who taught me the value of the written word and that they were there every step of the way through my early educational life.  One of my many wishes this month is for those who have Cerebral Palsy, or are generally disabled to have a guiding force in their life, such as my grandparents were in mine, to show and share the power of the written word.  Hopefully, I will see that goal realized within my life span.

Kelcie Can

Hi All,

I hope everyone had a good week.  I'm sooo glad it's Friday!  I thought I'd liven things up a bit by posting this awesome and very inspirational clip of a girl who has Cerebral Palsy.  It really goes to show determination leads to unchartered places.  I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend, and again, I welcome any comments.  Enjoy!

Believe

Today, I saw an article that reminded me a person’s potential is never known until it is tested and how powerful believing in yourself can be.  Dr. Sheehan was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at a young age and doctors gave little or no hope she would be a success.  Contrary to their belief, she completed an undergraduate degree in psychology, (with honors), then received her doctorate in the same field.  Reading this article only made me want to strive harder in my life and make a difference to those dearest to my heart, like Dr. Sheehan.  As my internship with United Cerebral Palsy ends, I hope believing in myself caused an impact in someone’s life, (more than one, with a bit of luck) while I had fun along the way.  It’s been a great ride this summer!

A New Era

In my travels today, I found a very uplifting article about a girl with Down syndrome who is a swimwear model for a major designer’s campaign.  For me, it’s the sign of changing times; and it will usher in a new era.  It gladdens my heart this is taking place!  As I said before, I grew up with the underlying stigma of being “different” and somewhat of a novelty in school.  It is a great boost, not only to the disabled world, but also to the community at large to have special needs clients for this effort.  Change is afoot, and I can’t wait to see what comes next!

The Mennonite Way

Yesterday, I encountered a truly amazing experience.  I had the opportunity to visit with both of my friend Alta’s grandmothers.  It was a perfect afternoon for a ride and and I leapt to get a glimpse of this different and fascinating world.  All the way in the car, I anticipated what conversations we would have; whether I’d be confortable or not.  I already met the one grandmother, but hadn’t the other.

While I visited with one grandmother, then the other, it struck me how our minds conjure misconceptions without even our knowledge.  As long as I remember, I have vigorously fought people’s perceptions of me and tried to display my true nature.  Yesterday, I realized I was guilty of the transgression of labeling individuals.  To my pleasure, I found myself completely comfortable with both grandmothers, even enjoying myself.  Ultimately, they accepted me and I them.  What a refreshing concept!  The world, I think, would be a better place if we followed the Mennonite way, with total acceptance of others.  Maybe someday, that will become our inherant nature.  

Happy July 4th

Today, I considered the significance of Independence Day for me, personally.  As I pondered, I thought about the treatment toward those who were physically or mentally challenged in history throughout the world, particularly, in the United States.  It amazes me that our country has evolved concerning the disabled community, even in my short life.  I’m aware America has many imperfections; but we do live in a country where there is always room to change and improve.  This is not only viable for individuals with a disability, but to everyone who wants to leave a lasting impact on our society.  It’s been over two hundred years and America remains the champion of equal opportunities and cherishes its citizens’ ability to utilize the skills and talents they possess, and rise accordingly.  Astonishing!  Happy July 4th everyone!