What Happens to a Dream Deferred?

Hello and thank you for visiting my corner of the Internet.

Did you know July is Disability Pride Month?  The holiday celebrates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26th,1990. But if you are like me you may be struggling to find reasons to celebrate your accomplishments as a person with a disability.

 While in high school, I  fell in love with a poem by Langston Hughes called  Harlem. You can find a copy of the poem here.  In the poem, the speaker asks the reader to think about what happens when you put your dreams on hold. I  have always associated this poem with my dream of becoming a writer and an advocate because I  was afraid to share my story, so I convinced myself that my story was not worth telling.

I started this blog because I  know what it’s like to struggle with your disability. Growing up with cerebral palsy,  I faced challenges. I often questioned my self-worth because  I reached milestones a little later than my family and friends. Although, I am still grappling with these feelings of inadequacy as an adult.  I have completed college, volunteered in my community, and taken steps to become more independent.  Success looks different for everyone and that’s okay. I’ve learned to do things at my own pace.

If I could speak with my younger self, I would encourage her to take her time. If it takes a little longer to reach your goals, it doesn’t mean you’re giving up on your dreams.  They are delayed.

So, this pride month I suggest we take a minute to reflect on the small moments that make us proud of ourselves.

BlackGirlRolling aims to help other people with disabilities along their journey of self-acceptance. If you want to hear more advice from an opinionated black woman with cerebral palsy this is the place for you. Until next time have a wonderful Disability Pride Month!