Answer: No.
This is an easy question for me. I’ve never considered my arm to be a disability – ever. In fact, when people call it a disability, I try to stay engaged in the conversation but I tend to feel a bit upset.
For me, my “little arm” is an ability, not a disability.
As I wrote about in 5 Things I Can Do with One Arm, there are things I can do that other people can’t with two arms. My unique appearance gives me unique capabilities, as well as unique methods of doing everyday activities.
Google defines disability as a physical or mental condition that limits a person. I don’t feel like I’m living within certain limitations. Instead, my arm gives me the opportunity to show others anything is possible with determination and commitment.
Most people I know well no longer notice my arm. When they do, it’s only to say, “Wow. I wondered how you would do that.”
Now, I’m not trying to sound arrogant. I don’t wish to credit any of my ability to myself. All credit goes to the Creator.
God knew what He was doing when He created me. I don’t believe God created me with a limitation. He created me with potential to do things in a new way. He created me with an inherent story that I can share with others.
And yes, there have been days I’ve felt frustrated. I’ve been frustrated by the way people stare, or by the way people doubt, or by the way people try to do things for me that I can easily do on my own.
On those days, I turn to my Creator, and He strengthens me. He reminds me who I am: a beloved, beautiful creation, His masterpiece.
Perhaps by clinical definition, you could argue I have a disability, and I get it. Technically, you might be right. But I’d argue back anyway.
I’m onederfully created. And never forget… you are onederfully created as well, a child of the one true King.
Love,
Becca
Hi I found your instagram and blog through the hashtag #luckyfin. My son has Down Syndrome and we in the DS community frequently use the hash tag #theluckyfew. I am really enjoying your blog. I also dislike that my son was labeled at birth with an intellectual disability. Seems unfair but I know he is here to show us the beauty in our differences. Keep up the good work. I look forward to reading more from you.
Hi Michelle! I’m so glad you found my Instagram and blog, and I’m glad you’ve been enjoying it! I agree, it’s frustrating to be labeled (or to see someone you love being labeled) for differences that are actually very beautiful, and not as limiting as some people might think. We were all created beautifully, wonderfully, and with purpose. Thanks for sharing a little of your story, and I hope you continue to follow me on this journey!
I love that you don’t let having one arm stop you from living life. I know so many people who use the disability card too much. It seems like they have learned to just give up when things get hard. God gives us all trials throughout life and it’s how to approach those trials that either help us get through it or just give up, sometimes without even trying.
Your story is so inspiring to me. I have a daughter with epilepsy, but we are teaching her to life her life around epilepsy rather than allowing the epilepsy to take over her life. I hope that she remains positive and strong throughout life. Thank you for sharing your story.
Gina, thank you so much for your encouraging words! I know we all have our battles – our own disabilities and struggles – but we get to choose our attitude in the face of these battles. We can choose to be discouraged and, as you said, give up when things get hard. Or, we can choose to find God’s gifts in even the most challenging of situations. Thank you for sharing a little of your family’s story. Positivity and strength in Christ will take your daughter far in life – she’s so blessed to have you teaching her those values. Blessings to you and your family!