There are many misconceptions about disabilities. Some people see them as a hindrance or a burden, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Disabilities can actually be quite beneficial.
1. Disabilities can make you more compassionate.
If you’ve ever had to deal with a disability yourself, or help someone else cope with one, you know how challenging it can be. This experience can make you more compassionate towards others. You’re more likely to have empathy for people who are dealing with difficult situations, and be able to offer help and support.
2. Disabilities can make you more resilient.
Dealing with a disability can be tough, but it can also make you stronger and more resilient. People with disabilities often have to face challenges that most people never even think about. This can make them more adaptable and resourceful, as they’ve had to find ways to overcome difficulties that others may not even be aware of.
3. Disabilities can make you more adaptable.
People with disabilities often have to find alternative ways to do things. This can make them more adaptable and flexible, as they’re used to thinking outside the box. They may be able to come up with creative solutions to problems that others wouldn’t even think of.
4. Disabilities can make you more appreciative.
People with disabilities often appreciate the little things in life more. They may have had to fight for things that others take for granted, like accessible transportation or suitable housing. This can make them more grateful for the things they do have, and less likely to take them for granted.
People with disabilities often face discrimination when it comes to creativity and expression. This is because society has preconceived notions about what disabled people are capable of, and these ideas often exclude creativity and artistry.
However, there are many disabled people who are extremely creative and talented. They often have to work twice as hard to be taken seriously and to be seen as equals in the creative world. But when they are given the chance to shine, they invariably do.
Here are some examples of disabled people who have made their mark in the world of art and creativity:
1. Chuck Close is a world-renowned painter who has been diagnosed with prosopagnosia, or face blindness. This means that he cannot recognize faces, even of people he knows well. As a result, he paints portraits from memory, using a grid system to help him capture every detail. His large-scale portraits are incredibly lifelike and have earned him international acclaim.
2. Yoko Ono is a Japanese artist, musician and peace activist who has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. She uses her art to explore ideas of disability, identity and equality. Her work often challenges traditional assumptions about what disabled people can do, and she has helped to change the way we think about disability and creativity.
3. Sarah Chace is a professional photographer who was born with Down syndrome. She specializes in black-and-white portrait photography, and her work has been featured in galleries and exhibitions around the world. Sarah is proof that disability does not have to limit creativity or expression.
You can do it!
These are just a few examples of disabled people who have overcome adversity to pursue their creative dreams. Despite the many obstacles they face, they have shown that nothing can stop them from achieving their goals and realizing their full potential. Whether you are a disabled individual or an ally, it is important to support and celebrate these talented individuals who are breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes as they pursue their creative passions.
At My Own Place Inc., we recognize different disabilities as an asset, not a liability. We believe that everyone has something special to offer, and we are committed to helping those with disabilities reach their full potential.
So if you’re ever feeling down about your disability or think it makes you less worthy than someone else, remember all the amazing things you can do because of it. And perhaps even consider sharing some of these benefits with those around you so that they too can see how wonderful disabilities can be.
