Finding Our Voice

For too long, our voices have gone unheard. They have been muffled, obstructed, stifled, muted, subdued, quieted, and hushed. I know this, because it has happened to me. I have Cerebral Palsy, as well as a learning disability. And if I hadn’t spoken up and out throughout the years, none of the things I’ve done or accomplished would have become reality.

For many years, I would have thoughts like… “If only I could walk without my full-length leg brace on. If only I could write a check by myself. If only I could have my own bank account, drive my own car, be independent. Speak up for myself without being forced into “people pleasing.” Voice my own opinions and beliefs in such a way that I could and would be heard and respected. Be valued for who I am and what I can do, without my disability defining me. To be held in esteem, and regarded in such a way that people would really listen. Maybe I could be the voice of reason and change for both myself and others. Maybe I could even change laws, along with attitudes! How great it would be if I could really get involved, and contribute to society in truly meaningful ways.”

These thoughts, ideas, and dreams often felt overwhelming and completely out of my reach. Frustration started feeling normal. Fear was also a constant. What if I was torn down and silenced for expressing how I really felt about my life and the world around me, or what I want for myself? But I was determined. I wouldn’t let my fears and frustrations stand in the way. Possibly, just possibly, I could change people’s minds and have some control over which direction my life was to go in. After all, in the words of Maya Angelou: “I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.” It was up to me!

The truth is that the general public is not comfortable with people like me, speaking up for myself. They assume our concerns are in the safe hands of paid helpers. While there is nothing wrong with paid helpers, many of us cannot afford them; we are forced to go it alone. We are lucky if we have any money left over during the middle of the month, let alone the end.

As a group, we have not been marked with good fortune, good health, or all the help society mistakenly thinks we have. We can’t even save extra money in the bank without being penalized. We are not fortunate enough to be a Helen Keller, a Tom Ritter, a Geri Jewell, a Josh Blue, or a Temple Grandin. They were and are fortunate enough to have people around them 24/7. Not only do their caregivers help them with their daily needs, but their presence serves other needs as well. For those in the public sphere, caregivers can assist and assure them constantly that their talks and programs will go smoothly, without a glitch, and that they can be relaxed and not stressed.

Most of us don’t have that kind of luxury. We don’t have the kind of money to hire people to help us in our lives. We have to accept things as they are. But this is where strength and perseverance and stubborn determination come into the picture! We push forward and work things out by and for ourselves. We continue to commit to doing our very best. We hold our heads high as we walk ahead with hope in our heart, expecting only good things to come, with a drive and fearlessness to make things happen. We pledge to ourselves over and over again to take action and do everything possible to change our circumstances. Even in difficult times – and there are many – we vow to ourselves to remain strong and carry on.

I have spent six and a half decades talking out, speaking up, and making huge changes, while accepting my own fate. I’ve had to adjust my thinking and my attitude numerous times, making me a stronger person in the process. I have walked the walk and talked the talk! From my education, to winning the first civil rights case in California, to becoming a fitness instructor, a special needs advocate, a motivational speaker, and author. I have risen to each and every occasion, pulling myself up and over each wall and hurdle, only to find another one. But this won’t stop me!

We have to think bigger, become wiser, and be the agents of change. We have to voice our thoughts and our concerns if we want to be heard and have change come to our lives. We have to wave our own magic wand, empower ourselves, and continue striving to accomplish our goals and dreams. We have to take away our own fears, become fearless warriors, and make this a better place for you and me! Even during adverse times, when we are frightened and upset, we have to deal with it and work through it. We must keep searching for and seeking opportunities that will open the doors, change our lives, and allow us to live the life we desire and deserve. I’ve done it, and I believe you can do it too!

People’s Illusions

The hardest reality that we, people with cerebral palsy, face today in this world is the steadfast illusions that people without disabilities have about us. It is not what we are, but what they think we are that is the problem. So often it’s less about helping us and more about maintaining control over what we do. It’s less about giving us a boost up and more about holding us back, keeping us where others think we belong. The methods they use to do this are often humiliating and derogatory.

If we speak up, seek legal advice, and voice our concerns, they tell us, “Your thoughts are scattered.” If we push for things that will better our lives, we are “spoiled and unrealistic.”

Our efforts to obtain employment and education are made more difficult because people mistakenly believe that government benefits will take care of all our needs and make us rich. There are organizations that will finance our education, but not in ways that help us become productive members of society. Often training is offered to be used as a distraction or hobby, something to keep us “busy” or “preoccupied.” There is no effort on their part to help us fit into society, by helping us earn a living or degree in our field of choice. Being productive is not considered – the focus is on “practical skills.” These training programs are designed to be reported on forms and written on IHP’s and IPP’s, fulfilling some outdated and, frankly, insulting mandate. There is absolutely no room for choice, discussion, self-governing judgment, triumphs, or exploration of possibilities.

None of this solves the problem or the matter at hand, which is this: those with cerebral palsy have the same dreams and aspirations as any other human being – to find work and activities that are meaningful, that feed their soul, that use their natural skills and abilities, where they feel they are contributing members of their society. Unless we are encouraged and supported to work, live, and play in “normal/typical” society, the preconceived notions of the general public will never change and we will never be able to grow to our full potential.

Unfortunately, we haven’t come as far as people often think. Many people with cerebral palsy are still marginalized, for example – given a cheque each month to stay home and be quiet. This needs to change. We must all do whatever we can to keep our dreams alive and to keep moving forward. If we truly want change to take place in the cerebral palsy community, we can’t give in or quit because it’s too hard! We must continue to keep pushing forward, to fight for our dignity and our rights, as human beings co-existing with everyone else on this plant. We must believe in ourselves and others within the community, helping each other whenever we can. If we don’t, we’ll never change the perceptions of others or make this a better place for you and me! So don’t be afraid to get out there and set an example – BE the example, be a role model for others – show them how it can be done. The possibility of rewards will be enormous, I promise you.

Doing Something That Will Create Social Change

How often do you think to yourself, “When are they ever going to get a ramp put in this area?” or, “When are they going to have an elevator installed in this building on campus?” or, “When will transportation happen in a timely manner?”

These are questions I’m sure many people in the disability community have asked both themselves and others, time and time again. But until we decide to change things ourselves, there’s a good chance nothing will happen. We have to push for the changes and take the action if we want to see positive results. We can’t sit back and wait for others to do something about the issue, resting on our laurels…

There is a quote I’ve heard many times, that I particularly like – “No Risk, No Reward.” This is so true!

Until we find in ourselves that inner motivation and perseverance to put energy into a cause that is dear to our heart, a cause that requires time, effort, moral and social consciousness, it will never happen, nor will there ever be benefits and laws in place for the disabled population.

Many, many years ago, there was a young woman. She had a learning disability, was labeled ‘mentally retarded,’ and told to go work in a type of Good Will Industries workshop. She decided right from the beginning not to settle, and not to let others define her life for her. If she never took on the system, stood up for herself, and fought for what she needed, she would most likely be sitting in front of the television set rotting her life away, to this day. Instead, she hung up her leg brace at 11 years old, pushed through and learned to read and write, won the first civil rights case for her own education, become a fitness instructor, and then used what she had learned from these experiences to become an advocate for others with special needs.

Your self-worth and confidence build when you take action. Many rewards, along with feelings of happiness and contentment, will come by building, engaging, establishing, forming, molding, creating, or strengthening some kind of mindful act, something in the world that needs changing, or something in your life that needs improvement. If you want something bad enough, or want to change something for the better, there is always a way. We just have to be mindful, build bridges, and have the right skills and tools within each of us to make it happen. And each and every one of us has places in us that shine, skills and attributes that can be shared with others and used to make this world a better place. Never be afraid to take that risk- the rewards can be huge!

What Do You See?

It’s not easy to hear words from others that sting, injure, or humiliate, and that may hurtle you into change. It seems as though the words hurt so badly, glaring right at you. And whether we like it or not, it is up to us to build our inner emotional muscle, to look at what just occurred, and try to turn it into a positive, building strength and character.

The problem is that most of us can’t, or don’t want to, face or handle the truth. We get angry. The anger turns into resentment, which turns into distress, which turns into disapproval, dissatisfaction, discontentment, and displeasure. We often stop all forms of communication with the person who confronted us. We then spurt words of blame and guilt because down deep we know it could be the truth. Who likes to admit that?!

It’s not always easy to figure this out or admit to ourselves that there is some truth in what was said to us. It’s complicated. We’re in denial – we don’t want to admit our own shortcomings. We don’t believe that we can, in fact, build bridges with those who are often just trying to help us work with our emotional distress. We have no clues or insights regarding how this painful interaction could really help us become closer, better human beings.

It’s also not easy to refrain from retaliation, to “lash out” at the person who has caused this emotional upheaval. It certainly isn’t easy to look at someone else’s perspective and point of view. It takes courage and honesty to encompass and grab hold of what was said and to really analyze it. It takes unwavering courage to put one’s ego aside and “do the work.” It takes a willingness that you never had before. Most importantly, it takes an open mind and an approachable heart! Because, who likes to look at themselves, their faults, and perhaps admit a truth? Not many people, that’s for sure…

What does that truth look like? What does it take for me to be honest with myself? How can I become willing to look within? When will I be able to look at this area of my life and know that I will be able to face my feelings, stand tall, and climb my way up that steep mountain of awareness?

The answers will come when you are ready. When you find you are tired of acting, and of projecting a false image to others. When you can’t hide your head in the sand anymore, or when you want to leave the table, excuse yourself, say you’re going to the bathroom, but instead just leave the premises. You think it’s better or easier to leave well enough alone, to run away from it all.

While extremely challenging, it will be necessary to give it your all, your undivided attention, your collective best, your thoroughness, and your steady dedication.

It’s not about getting angry, insulted, frustrated, or embarrassed. It’s not about the words glaring you in the face! It’s about bettering yourself, humbling your behavior. It’s not about always having your way, or always having to be right.

It’s about learning and growing – thinking about what was said to you and how you feel about it. Deciding whether the words ring true to you and how you can use this information to become a better you. It’s about rising above, facing the music, dancing in the rain, and possibly accepting your friend’s gentle advice. You have a choice: you can grow closer to this person or more distant. It’s a decision only you can make!

All New and Improved

READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!!!

Hi Everyone,

Have a look and see what’s new at Whispers of Hope! See what’s new with Karen Lynn-Chlup and see what she is up to…

Whispers of Hope Receives 2016 Best of Torrance Award

Torrance Award Program Honors the Achievement

TORRANCE May 18, 2016 — Whispers of Hope has been selected for the 2016 Best of Torrance Award in the Yoga Studio category by the Torrance Award Program.

Each year, the Torrance Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Torrance area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2016 Torrance Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Torrance Award Program and data provided by third parties.

About Torrance Award Program

The Torrance Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Torrance area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

The Torrance Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community’s contributions to the U.S. economy.

SOURCE: Torrance Award Program

CONTACT:
Torrance Award Program
Email: PublicRelations@awardconnections.org
URL: http://www.awardconnections.org

The Trip I took to the East Coast to Speak for our People

Three weeks ago, I took a most rewarding journey that is now changing the course of my life. It has all happened because of the tenacious action I have pursued continuously throughout my life. For the last three years, I have traveled to the east coast, on my own expense, to speak on behalf of the disabled community and discrimination, at Kean University. Previously, I had spoken in history classrooms with up and coming students. However, this time, I spoke to a larger group of important people.

Many of these students came from different academic and cultural backgrounds. They also were individuals without any visible disability what so ever. This made me want to open the minds and heart of the people before me. To me, it was all important to explain the facts of what our disabled community with learning disabilities and Cerebral Palsy go through, yet, remain able to accomplish. Not only were the young adults of today’s generation there, but professional as well, who were totally unaware of what we go through on a daily basis with learning. These educators were blown away by the facts presented to them.

Moreover, they were taken back by the determination, confidence, and steadfastness I have had to demonstrate through my entire life to get to where I am today. I was able to describe in great details, the struggles and strength we as disable people put forth. Time and time again, in my address, I stressed the importance of how disabled individuals need to work twice and three times as hard as the “normal” person to achieve their own goals and desires. Their confidence has to be stronger than the average person because no one can give it to us.

Still, they must nurture themselves because they can not receive it anywhere else. It pleased me to see not only how receptive they were, but how my words reach them at the depths of their beings. So, that they invited me back next year to a bigger audience, and to an audience with disabilities. They expressed a strong desire for me to return and speak to the entire university. You would be very pleased to hear how my lecture impacted on the two professors who were present.

Dr. Thomas Banit, who was only going to stay a minute, wound up stating throughout the entire presentation, and Dr. Argote-Freyre, was totally amazed when I described coming from the place where I could not ever write a clear constructive sentence; to being able to write and have published an autobiographical book. This gave me a sense of how far I have come, and where I am going. It amazed me, once again, just how far one can go if they are driven and want to succeed.

All and all this was a life altering experience. It has brought me one step closer to attaining my ultimate goal.

Classes for All

Dear Friends,

I’d like to bring to your attention an article written by two dear friends that I know. Ms. Leslie Fanelli and Mr. Sean Dineen. They bring to the community of Millburn, New Jersey, the enriching, inspiring, applauded program, “Theatre for Everyone” class at the Paper Mill Playhouse.

Photo by Leslie Fanelli

All my best,
Karen

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Keynote Public Speaking Engagement

Karen Lynn is pleased to announce:

Her Public Speaking Eengagement for United Cerebral Palsy and People First

Date: Saturday May 16, 2015

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: San Diego Marriott Mission Valley 8757 Rio San Diego Drive, San Diego, CA., 92108-1620

For more information: please call Laura Krebs, Program Coordinator

Email Address: info@ucpsd.org

Phone: 858.278.5420 x 132

Making an Investment

In our society, every group has figured out the accommodations they need to thrive and to become healthy, productive men and women. But picture this… What if the accommodation is a more flexible attitude? It’s very easy to make a door accessible for a person in a wheelchair. It is far more difficult to accept that person as an employee or as a romantic partner.

One can find success stories in Audacity Magazine or New Mobility Magazine. Yet, people with cerebral palsy remain invisible unless they appeal to public sympathy. What has happened to all the children of the past who were disabled but not severely enough to elicit that public sympathy? Where did they go? They grew up, but society’s image of them didn’t. Where were the strong political alliances that were supposed to help them? Where were the efforts to integrate?

How many attempts to sustain a job, a marriage, or a future have been forgotten? How many of us have been institutionalized, or put into the modern replacement — stuck in front of the TV. Nowhere have the leaders who claimed to be for us. #madeaninvestment.

The productive abilities of the CP Community are unmatched. We have fallen far, far, far, behind.

Today I stretch out my arm to help us all get back up.