Does the word 'disability' mirror images of people who cannot walk, talk, see, or perform tasks that most people take for granted. If someone cannot see, does not mean they lack vision. Why do some people consider disabled individuals as abnormal?
Disabled people share the same emotions, attitudes, and needs as anyone else. Disabilities are not a punishment; they are part of the diverse and beautiful spectrum of human existence. Everyone is created differently, and it is beyond the control of individuals to choose their circumstances. It is simply their fate to live with certain challenges. However, even in those challenges, they are blessed with unique talents, perspectives, and strengths.
The creativity of disabled individuals is a powerful force that breaks through barriers and challenges traditional boundaries. Far from being limited by their circumstances, many people with disabilities tap into their unique perceptions and experiences to create art, innovate in technology, and inspire social change.
Hence, why do some people misunderstand or judge disabled individuals? In fact, studies and history have shown that many individuals with disabilities possess exceptional talents and intelligence. People should never be judged based on their appearance or condition. Disability does not mean someone is incapable of contributing to society. Some of the world’s most brilliant minds and influential figures have been disabled: inventors, scientists, actors, and more.
Take, for example, the remarkable American writer, Helen Keller. Despite being both blind and deaf, she became a powerful advocate for the disabled community, travelling the world to improve education and opportunities for those facing physical challenges. She didn’t let her disabilities define her; instead, she used them to drive herself to greatness. She once said, “I am conscious of a soul-sense that lifts me above the narrow, cramping circumstances of my life. My physical limitations are forgotten, my world lies upward, the length and breadth, and the sweep of the heavens are mine!”
Or think about Tom Cruise, a Hollywood icon who battled dyslexia, a reading disability, from the age of seven. Rather than let it hinder his career, he overcame it with determination and dedication, becoming one of the biggest movie stars in the world. And Thomas Edison, the great inventor, didn’t learn to read until he was 12 years old due to learning disability. His story reminds us that where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Closer to home, many disabled individuals are making invaluable contributions to our communities. Whether working in government, private industries, or running their own businesses, these individuals demonstrate that their abilities go far beyond their disabilities. Their resilience, confidence, and unwavering spirit are what drive their success. They prove that disability does not limit potential.
To truly support disabled people, society must step up — both public and private organisations should make it easier for them to access the services they need. Special care and attention should be given, especially in situations where patience is required, such as waiting in long lines or dealing with complex procedures. Understanding these unique challenges will help ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.
Kindness is a universal language, which the deaf can hear and the blind can see. Whether it is through government initiatives, non-profit organisations, or individual efforts, it is significant that we extend compassion and respect to disabled people in every corner of our society. Like all of us, they have an insight, energy, and dedication to contribute in countless ways.
To all those living with disabilities, never let the opinions or behaviours of others steal your inner peace. It is not your fault if others fail to accept you for who you are. You owe no apology for something beyond your control.
You are not defined by your condition, but a person who continues to grow, flourish, and reach new heights, regardless of the obstacles. Let your disability be the source of your greatest strength and turn it into your most powerful ability.
Abdulaziz Al Jahdhami
The write is author, translator and a communications professional
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