I was recently told that I have a “zest for life” by a person that I have never actually met but who has heard my story. My initial reaction: “Thanks…I guess?” My second reaction: “Wait…what does zest even really mean?” So I looked it up, and apparently it means “interest” or “passion”. Then, I started pondering…
Don’t get me wrong. It is cool to think that someone could be inspired by me or the “way I live”, but to be honest, I’m just livin’. Sure the way I live might be different-for example, most people sprint down the hall when they’re late for class whereas I zoom down the hall with my super speedy chair that goes 5 mph- but just because I’m delbasid doesn’t mean I automatically don’t enjoy life. I get through it, day by day…but doesn’t everybody? Some days just suck, some days you just can’t stop smiling, and that has nothing to do with having a disability.
I am so blessed; I have a loving family, great friends, and an infallible God. Because of these things, I can honestly say that I do love my life. So you can tell me I have a zest or a passion for life, but don’t do so just because you think it’s impressive that I still lead a happy life when I can’t walk. Because really, it’s not about that. I have a passion for writing. I have a passion for my friends. I have a passion for music. I have a passion for succeeding. I have a passion for the Lord. All of these things are entailed in my life; so is my disability. But that’s the thing. It’s all just a part of life.
