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This one is about: When I... by Don Ziperstein
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WHEN I.......
by Don Ziperstein
.......was knee-high to my Mother I overheard a lady who had just learned about my "handicap" say, "God only afflicts the strongest because only they can survive". This phrase has lingered in my mind all my life and has surfaced from time to time, especially when things became difficult. My initial reaction was, why did God afflict me? I didn't do anything to him! Well I quickly discarded that enigma and left it to others much wiser than I to figure out. I then focused on the rest of it, No doubt I was afflicted therefore, maybe I am strong. In my mind, it made sense. By accepting the premise I began to internalize the message and wondered whether or not I was one of those "strongest" survivors. In time, I accepted it and it has had a profound affect on my life in many different ways.
As a child, it helped me to become more aggressive and shrug-off the "feeling sorry for myself" syndrome. I realized (I believe sooner than most others) that there were many others much worse off than me. And I went about my life with a certain zest and took on what ever came my way.
As a teenager, it accelerated my sensitivity to others and events affecting my life. I began to wonder about the definition of strong. What is strong? Being macho (BTW, that word wasn't popular back then)? Charging recklessly into dangerous situations risking life and limb ala John Wayne? No, I decided, I already had enough of that with those traumatic surgeries and never-ending ear problems. So what was it? Well, subconsciously I guess, I found myself turning inward. Examining my reactions and developing a cautious and caring approach to life. No, I didn't surrender, I was a pretty sarcastic little brat but, I like to think I had a heart when it came right down to it. I think I was quicker than most to pick on people who were hurting and needed a kind word or helping hand. For this reason I feel I became ultra-sensitive and yes, even too gullible from time to time. And that was good, because it fit my new definition of strong.
As an adult, because I was "strong", I was able to cope with all those frustrating events that alter and illuminate our lives and I never looked back! I kept going, each little mishap adding to my ever growing strength.
My apologies for rambling but, my intent was to reassure those of you who are going through the seemingly endless trials and tribulations of raising the CA child. Take heart, you've got a precious bundle of energy there, who you better believe will take on the world. Remember, only the strongest are afflicted and we do survive.