Physical Disability and a Quest for Change
When we be complaining about our looks and appearances, we find a differently able person broadly smiling in a corner and accepting himself the way he is, with pride. And, what do we do? We utter our sympathizing word ‘bichara’ reminding him once again on being physically disabled, when what he expects from us is empathy and encouragement.
Why do we pity the one who gave a new identity to the world only because he sits on a wheelchair, when he is more capable than us? Why are we so narrow in thoughts for handicapped people when they’re the ones we should be learning from? There are so many people with physical disabilities making us proud such as Stephen Hawking, Louis Braille, Beethoven and our very own Jhamak Ghimire to name a few.
I’ve seen many blinds giving spectacular performances in reality shows. I’ve read autobiographies of many differently able people such as ‘Jeevan — Kada Ki Phool’ of Jhamak Ghimire and ‘How It Feels to Live with a Physical Disability’ by Jill Krementz. These books have inspired me like nothing else has till date. Also, I’ve heard many motivational speeches from handicapped people that have left me speechless. We cannot even imagine the void they have in their heart and how difficult must it be for them to fight with the cold social mindset of some people. And, the irony is, we never take this matter seriously putting ourselves in their shoes- neither does the govt. We never think that we may lose our eyesight tomorrow while taking medication for a minor headache or we may lose our legs while crossing the road. So, I guess it is high time now. Let’s not turn a blind eye to all those problems the disabled might be facing. And let’s be friends with them.
Being a public figure or a social activist is not necessary- the world only requires kindness and compassion for change. Because, being born in the land of Gautam Buddha, nothing can go wrong with kindness. When our small gesture of kindness can connect our soul with that of the physically disabled ones and can bring their long lost happiness, then why not start to widen our thoughts instantly? The words of Emma Watson- “If not me, who? And if not now, when?” strike. So, let’s strive for change and for creating a disabled-friendly environment. If not for them, let’s do it for ourselves.
