“For contrary to legal precedent, women are considered guilty of incompetence until proved otherwise.” -Amelia Earhart.
For some time my life has been dictated by the reference point of before the stroke versus after the stroke. The closer I came either physically or mentally to being like myself before the stroke marked improvement and progress. No doubt that is a clear indicator of recovery after such a horrific event. However, what if the stroke wasn’t so much a detriment but something like a flint against which you sharpen a rock? I had become that rock. Therefore, rather then pretend that the stroke had destroyed me, why not see that I was very much still “there?” In personality and physically. If a city can be rebuilt after undergoing a round of intense bombing, then why couldn’t I? In this process it has been imperative to stay positive and be around others who are. Because, sadly as I have experienced first hand, there are more people out there that want to extinguish your light rather then feed the fire. Personally I am frustrated by the reference point, as I’m sure so are other stroke survivors. To be compared to ones self and trying to outdo it, seems like a cruel sports event. Being stubborn and ambitious, I naturally try to outdo myself(and others) anyway. Not only is that the natural human inclination, but this was something different. I was being measured against myself and asked to meet the expectations of others. Naturally, this turned into walking a personal war path to prove any naysayers wrong. Maybe you haven’t heard, but anyone who tells you your aspirations are impossible is a liar. After all, if it can happen to anyone why not you? Winning the lottery, finding great love, traveling the world, and full recovery after a stroke. I believe all these things are possible to those that deign to dream them. However, don’t insert a wishbone where a backbone should be. The people that will emerge after a tragedy and that should be kept in your atmosphere, are the ones that build you up rather then drag you down. When it comes to the naysayers, learn to protect yourself from them and relish the moment you inevitably prove them wrong. Because, if you remain focused on the finish line rather then the hurdles, you will.
Love and light!
