Let me take you on a little journey—my life on a roll. It’s full of adventures, a touch of chaos, and yes, encounters with people who make me question if they were sent by the universe just to test my patience. Oh, the things I wish I could say out loud! But hey, I’ve got an internal monologue so sharp it could cut glass.
- “Did They Just Say That?”
Picture this: I’m rolling through life, literally, and someone older (and, let’s be honest, not exactly a Google Scholar) decides to give their two cents. “Such people shouldn’t be born,” they announce, as if I’m not RIGHT THERE. Oh, and my favorite? “She’s beautiful, but no life because she can’t walk.”
My inner voice? “Ah, yes, because walking is obviously the only qualification for a fulfilling life. Guess I missed that memo.” Smile. Nod. Roll away gracefully. - “Let Me Help You… Without Asking”
There’s a special breed of overly enthusiastic helpers who swoop in without warning. One second I’m maneuvering just fine, the next, someone’s grabbing my chair and pushing me like they’re steering a shopping cart.
What I want to say: “Thanks, but I’m not a ride at Disneyland. Permission exists for a reason.”
What I actually do: Smile politely and pray for an imaginary eject button. - “Oh, You’re So Brave!”
I hear this one a lot. And while I understand the intention, let me clarify: I’m not climbing Everest or fighting a dragon—I’m just living my life.
Inner thought: “Brave? Honey, brave is me trying to eat a taco without it falling apart.” - “You’re Too Pretty to Be…”
Fill in the blank: too pretty to be in a wheelchair, too pretty to struggle, too pretty to—well, exist as I am.
What I want to say: “Wow, I didn’t realize beauty standards included a ‘walking’ clause. Is there a handbook I missed?”
What I actually do: Flash a smile that says, “Bless your heart,” and roll on. - The Silent Warriors
Let’s not forget the silent stares from across the room—the kind that makes me feel like I’ve accidentally walked into a red carpet event. Honestly, I can’t blame them. Sometimes, I think, “Is it my wheelchair they’re staring at? Or have they just realized I’m the most beautiful woman in the room?” Probably the latter—because let’s face it, I do have that effect.;)
And just as I’m about to flash my award-winning smile, the urge to pull out a megaphone and yell, “Yes, it’s a wheelchair. No, it doesn’t fly. Anything else?” creeps in. But then again, why ruin their moment of awe?
Life on a roll isn’t always smooth, but it’s mine, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. People’s words and actions may sometimes sting, but I’ve got my sass, my wit, and my own unique perspective to keep me going. And to those who still think walking is the ultimate life achievement, I’ll be here, living my best life on wheels—with humor, grace, and just a little bit of sarcasm.