A particular pairing of letters, vowels and consonants working in tandem have such incredible power. Power to move mountains and cripple worlds. Wielded by a talented scribe words are indestructible.
But which words?
Subversive. I like that word. Subversive . . . Rebellious . . . Revolutionary. I realize these words can be used to describe negative traits in a person, but they are also the words that are used to describe heroes and forward thinkers. People who think outside the box, people who refuse to let convention limit their artistic and innovative personalities. If we all thought the same, life would stagnate. We need people who challenge our beliefs and our inherent mediocrity. Perfection is stagnant, imperfection is charming, and I am charming as hell!
When someone is placed in a situation that is different or difficult, one adapts themselves to the situation or vice versa. You don’t have to follow the ‘book’. I do not know of one book on ‘how to be a person with a disability’ that ever asked for my opinion. Ergo, it was not written for me. We are all different and that difference is our strength. The professionals in the medical field all seem to have a ‘book’ they refer to when dealing with a person with a disability. Unfortunately that ‘book’ only refers to the middle of the road and most of us are a little off on the shoulder. I have had more than a few discussions with Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists who seem to think I fall in the same mold as everyone else. I soon convinced them otherwise. To give them credit, when they realized I was actually capable of independent thought we got along much better. Of course I still had to watch and occasionally insist. I used to be so shy. I cannot afford to be anymore.
I hate the word can’t. Can’t, can’t, can’t. Recant, Vacant. Such negative words, harsh words. Unable, incapable or even cannot is preferable. Of course can, able, or capable are even more preferable. And if you look carefully, each positive word is inside the negative one. It is amazing how words can encourage us or even discourage us. Something as simple as a sound, vowels and consonants reverberating have the power to move us. A rousing speech made by an honest Politician, (and you thought I didn’t have a sense of humour) or music, good music. Music that we think is good. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. Music, like Art, is personal even visceral. It is almost impossible to explain to another why a particular piece of music, or art, moves us. It doesn’t matter, if it touches you it can be used to benefit your situation. Anything, almost anything, that makes you feel good about who you are, is something you need in your life. As long as it doesn’t harm another and it is legal. I will not condone something that is illegal. At least not openly. Shhhhhh.
What a powerful well-written piece. You are truly a wordsmith. I agree with you wholeheartedly. Our words along with the tone we use and our body language can convey an array of mixed messages.
I was brought up to ‘think before you speak’. I should remember that more often. Who decided what “normal” is? It seems that if what I do or say is okay with you, I’m normal. But if you don’t like it, then I’m not normal!
If we all have to live our lives in the middle of the road, there’s gonna be one helluva massive traffic jam!!
Love your sketches!! Happy Sunday.
🔹 Ginger 🔹
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Ginger! I know I am definitely off to one side and I change lanes occasionally.
LikeLike
I really have enjoyed reading your excellent post and so agree with what you say about words
and the importance of daring be yourself. You left me with a big smile.
Miriam
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Miriam! That pleases me immensely.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so right Pam. I find the evolution of words both mysterious and intriguing. I often wonder how and why they developed as they did and would love to have witnessed thise moments of decision, isn’t the evolution of thinkers pretty fascinating? You are a most forward thinker and such a positive person. I’m very glad to know you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Cheryl! I agree, the evolution of each word is fascinating. And it is happening all around us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Excellent piece! This is a very important message that everyone needs to hear. I certainly wish I’d heard it and taken it to heart in my youth. My road from there to here would have been so much easier.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That is one thing we ALL excel at: hindsight. I know I do. Thanks for stopping by.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Unfortunately, even with my hindsight I need corrective lenses. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
You selected and assembled some very fine words, Pam.
“I used to be so shy. I cannot afford to be anymore.” None of us can afford to be shy anymore. If we don’t look out for us, no one will.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Dan. We will look out for each other.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well said! 🙂
What definitely comes across in your blog is your strong individuality and perseverance. Also sticking up for yourself and not being treated as “Ms Average”.
It is amazing what can be accomplished with the words ‘I can’ rather than ‘I can’t’.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That should be our mantra!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
haha Yes 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person