The other day I told my assistant, Jen, that her A.D.D. is a gift. She began to cry and said, “No one has ever called it a gift!”. It made her feel good about what had always been called a deficiency and a disability. No way! You would need to have A.D.D. to work in our office!
Jen is pulled from every side and given a different task daily, plus brings her own bright ideas and willing heart to her hard work. She is diverse and can have several big tasks going at one time, while at the same time carrying on a conversation. What an incredible advantage. She is a gift indeed.
Actually, being blind can be a gift too. Many ask me, “Is your hearing better now that you cannot see?”, to which I love to answer, “What did you say?” They feel sheepish and embarrassed when they repeat their question and I am smiling big. NO! My ears are not better, but I have trained them to hear and see beyond what most observe in this world. Oddly, one of our children struggles with dyslexia. It is literally called “word blindness.” To her, some letters are missing in any given word or sentence. Sometimes things are backwards. Even the smartest among us seem to have things upside down and backwards in today’s culture, yet the struggle does not keep this child from impacting her world and overcoming what is easy to most. In fact, at the end of the day she has worked double, compared to others.
So what is your “label” that you have thought to be some disadvantage? Instead of the negative spin and stating the obvious struggle, are there any overlooked benefits you have or give to your world. I know, as a blind woman, I see beyond the excuses of many and focus on their potential and untapped abilities. Plus, I am your best friend. You look like you have lost weight and you look awesome today. Those with dyslexia may have to work through their own reading systems, but former inventors, presidents and great leaders have done it too. Don’t quit. I just had lunch with a good friend who owns multiple businesses around the nation. He cannot even fill out a form on his own, but he is an avid reader. Of all things, he was helped most by a speed reading course. Who would have put him in that class to begin with, I McWonder? He breeds success and is one of the most joyful men I know.
Any “label” you might wear is just part of life’s recipes. Your disability or challenge, mixed with diligence, tenaciousness, joy and triumphant attitude will serve multitudes and leave them wanting more.
What do you have that you can bring to the table of your corporation, home or organization? You are someone’s gift. Even I can SEE that for myself!
When you choose to look past the horizon… the sky is the limit!