My wildflower of a disability

Image description: A person holds a bouquet of wildflowers

I love going on walks and seeing flowers. I see gardens full of flowers. Other times I see wildflowers, that sprout on random places along curbs or the roadside. Having a disability is like being a wildflower in a well-manicured garden. Instead of blending in you stand out and not in a positive way. Many people have seen my disability as odd, or flawed. I would often get overlooked and not get picked over the other flowers. For many years I struggled with wanting to be another type of flower. Little did I know that wildflowers and my disability also had many benefits. Wildflowers are adaptable and diverse, and benefit pollinators and our ecosystem.

Wildflowers can adapt and can grow in either sun or rain. The weather conditions do not stop the growth of them. Having a disability forces me to be able to adapt to many different situations. The only constant is my disability and I need to find alternative ways to cope with it. For example, If I am at the mall I cannot use the escalator because of my visual perception. I can not tell which step to step on with the constant movement. Instead, I use an elevator or stairs to navigate the stores and shop. 

Another feature of wildflowers is that they are diverse and common.  There is not one wildflower that is quite like the other and the type of variety creates beauty. You can also find them along roadsides, sidewalks, and in parks. Disabilities also come in many different forms and are also common. Disabilities can affect how a person walks, talks, moves, and learns. Some types are visible such as physical disabilities. Other types of disabilities remain hidden. Each person will have their own experience in having one. Disabilities are also common and found everywhere. 1 billion people worldwide have one. 

Wildflowers also help pollinators and our ecosystem. Bees and butterflies go after the nectar and pollen in these flowers. Having pollinators is key to insects carrying seeds and producing food. My disability has also been a benefit to others. I get the chance to help others with disabilities. I work in the classroom with students with disabilities. I often share my experiences and encourage them to go for their dreams. I have the empathy to be able to understand

My wildflower of a disability was not my first choice of flowers. I hated being different and wanted to be a different type. I had to dig up the deep roots of shame, to appreciate the beauty and complexity of this flower. I have been able to withstand harsh rain and cold conditions along with sunshine and warmth.  I have discovered I am not alone and others have them. Throughout the years I also saw the benefit of having one. I have learned how to help other wildflowers not only grow but thrive. Many people will often overlook me and not see my potential. They will pick another type of flower and leave me. Instead of withering I will flourish and grow not only to help myself but others as well.