Hello and welcome back to Second Chance to Live. Thank you for deciding to stop by to visit with me. Nearly 2 years ago I wrote a post on, The Power of Identification. In the past day or so I have been thinking about that article and made the decision to revisit the principles with in that article. In the Power of Identification I drew contrasts between comparison and identification. I will share some of those contrasts below and then add a few.
For a person living with a disability — for many years — I seldom felt as though I quite measured up to what was expected of me. Although I diligently attempted to meet the expectations that were set for me, I never quite understood why I seemed to perpetually come up short in my efforts to succeed. In my struggle and exasperation I looked for answers. In my search I discovered the reason (s) for my anguish. I will share some of the reasons with you in the next several paragraphs.
I found that my efforts were being judged by a set of cause and effects. I will share some of these cause and effects — or contrasts — with you. My list of contrasts is not exhaustive. After you read my article, sit down with a pen and a piece of paper and determine what other similar contrasts you have experienced while living with a disability. As you participate in this exercise I believe you will find a new freedom and a new happiness.
Through completing the exercise I believe you will find that you have been berating yourself for no good reason. Through your awareness, I believe you will be able to both celebrate who you are, your creative genius and what you bring to the table of life. Be encouraged my friend.
Identification empowers, where as comparison minimizes contribution. Comparison asserts stipulation to inclusion. Comparison mandates that certain criteria be met. Comparison predicates acceptance. Comparison demands compliance. Comparison predicates performance. Comparison belittles when we fall. Comparison sets us up to judge both other people and ourselves. Comparison is a task master. Comparison judges our efforts.
Please Read Part 2 for context. Thank you.
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