One day in 1984, as I sat in the stillness of my home, alone and pondering my life, I thought of my past and whether I would ever have the opportunities non-disabled people took for granted.

Here I was in my thirties, struggling to be someone, struggling to get an education, and to have what other people had at this age. Would I ever move forward, or would I remain trapped where I was?

Would I remain a crip like all the professionals wanted me to be? Would I be locked in an institution, stored securely out of sight, because I couldn’t prove myself to these men and women who didn’t care one bit about me?

They tried to steal all my opportunities. I had to sue the State of California so I could attend community college, where I graduated with honors. This, after they labeled me retarded. They tried, but my roar of truth, dignity, and pride broke their chains. This roar continues to be a voice to melt away these shackles, so for disabled people and everyone else, this world is filled with peace and kindness rather than “chaotic endless tomorrows.”

DAYS

Where have the days gone?
Has my destiny of solitude on this rotating planet stolen them?

I think yes. And when we grow old,
We will look back at a world of
Chaotic endless tomorrows
Going nowhere, fast!