I feel the eyes beading down on me. It’s like being hounded by the paparazzi. Yet I don’t consider myself a famous person or celebrity. At least not in the sense of having a gaggle of paparazzi following me around everywhere. But sometimes it feels like that.
Having a physical disability, or any major noticeable difference, you get noticed. People will stare or act differently. A mom will stand in shock and shame if their child loudly questions, “Why does that guy look so strange?” Or, I’ve heard of people hanging up on someone when the person happens to stutter when asking a question or trying to order a pizza.
The thing is, whether born with a disability, like myself, or becoming disabled later in life due to accident or other method, is something you have no control over. In some instances you can adapt fairly well, but you still have a disability.
So instead of trying to do like a movie star and wear dark shades and a hat, I confront head on. Ask me anything. I’m not shy about talking about my differences. I don’t hide inside just because of my disability. You’ll find me many places. Check out my About page just for a glimpse of places you might find me. I’m not going to let something I have no control over stop me from enjoying my life. And if I can help someone else better understand life’s little and big differences, that’s a plus.
For my friends that may stutter a little. Be bold, go out and share it with others. Show others that the stuttering doesn’t define who you are. For many stuttering can be a very minor inconvenience that happens when they are nervous and disappears when content and happy. Others, like Mel Tillis, can sing without a single stutter, yet when having a conversation, then it may show up. For others, working with a speech therapist works and for others it doesn’t.
My shades are off. I’m ready to meet my fans. Oh, hi mom.
