Friends,
In mid March I presented at my first professional development conference for educators. The invitation to speak came from my middle school principal and dear mentor. Dr. Rudnesky has always sincerely valued my story as a determined person who copes with cerebral palsy. The opportunity to present alongside Dr. R was an impactful and special experience for me. It could easily go on a list of life's “most memorable moments.”
In the weeks ahead of the conference, I struggled to find the right words. I can confidently tell anyone who asks me that living with cerebral palsy is a challenge that takes courage. It’s a truthful yet simple reply. It comes in handy when I don’t really want to think about my disability. If people ask specific questions I always answer them honestly and with tact. I enjoy meaningful conversations around the topic of disability awareness and acceptance. Sharing the way I have strived to overcome some of life’s most physical and emotional challenges associated with cerebral palsy keeps me focused on my hope and resilience.
I don’t have a shortage of thoughts to share. It’s how the blog started. Short narratives of my life gave me a voice as a hopeful educator as I worked tirelessly to prove my worth as a dedicated and knowledgeable professional. I had never been given a captive audience of hundreds. These folks wouldn’t stumble across my blog post; they would listen on purpose.
I settled on words that acknowledged the idea that Dr. R had made my hope tangible. He had helped me be brave. I practiced in empty spaces in my house, on facetime with friends, with fellow teachers, and with an audience of the young adults I teach daily. I opened my remarks with students by sharing that celebrating teaching with Dr. R was an honor. He had always been so proud. In the book of Matthew, there is a verse it reads, Whoever compels you to go one mile go with him two. Dr. R is one of my second mile people. In the time that I shared with students I wanted them to pray for and acknowledge people who had gone the extra mile with them. Hope cannot happen in isolation. My school family had received the message with open hearts. I’m not a polished public speaker. I am passionate about my role and work as disabled educator. It is a beautiful blessing to share the work of my heart.
Conference day came quickly. It was such a unique opportunity to hear Dr. R as an inspirational speaker. He spoke so authentically about his experiences in school leadership. He consistently used the phrase, I figured out…. then shared wisdom from his time as principal. His willingness to help people figure life out is one of the reasons I appreciate and value his mentorship. He is a people centered person. He’ll find a reason why you matter. There’s so much value in being surrounded by people who help you tap into potential you never considered. It’s life giving— it helps me embrace who I am able to be.
There was so much heartfelt emotion that went into sharing about who I had become because Dr. Rudnesky had created a culture of courage. Life is a balancing act between fear and joy. The greatest part is finding people who will hold onto your fear with you so that there’s always space for joy. As I shared my story, I could feel my face flush and voice quiver. I wasn’t afraid— just authentic. Vulnerability allows others to accept imperfection.
It was in that moment that I couldn't have been more certain I was called to be a courageous eductor. I'd never spoken in front of this many people before. I also had never felt so loved by a room full of people who didn't know me. I’m so grateful to those who acknowledge my vulnerability and appreciate my courage. It takes practice to live radiantly in my difference. I pray that the work of my heart is a light of hope.
Joyful Blessings,
Julie
Author's Note : I created a separate post for the speech I presented at the conference-- if you'd like to read it.
