These days you don’t have to look too far in the world of social media to find a picture of someone with a disability accompanied by an inspirational quote. 

Many people share these posts in the hope that it makes themselves and others feel better about their lives and in the hope that they can draw inspiration for their own gratification. Have you ever considered the other side? 

For many people living with a disability, this topic is an incredibly sensitive one. The over glorification of disability often frustrates those who have fought long and hard to have their voices heard as equal and valued members of society. I can recall on many occasions just simply doing my grocery shopping with my children whilst using my wheelchair and being told that I am “an inspiration.” 

Thank you. That’s kind, but really is the expectation so low on a wheelchair user that going to the grocery store is inspirational? Would you call your average Jo-Blow at the supermarket going about their business inspirational? At first comments like these infuriated me and I questioned the intention behind these remarks. I wondered if perhaps these people hadn’t been exposed to people living and thriving with a disability, that perhaps their perceptions came from an acidic view of disability where institutions and scary mobility aids are the pictures painted of disability. Thankfully those days are long gone, and media and marketing representation has also taken the step up to more accurately portray what an adaptive life can look like.

There are some people with a disability that are comfortable in the role of inspiring others. Through their experiences living with a disability, they have learned life tools that they enjoy sharing with others. Skills like overcoming obstacles, goal setting and resilience. These powerful stories can assist others in unlocking their true potential. There are some incredible motivational speakers that happen to have a disability. There are also some incredible motivational able-bodied speakers too!

The message here is simple. We are all individuals and with a varied range of abilities and we all have a story. What we all choose to share differs between us all. Choose what you choose to share and how you choose to share it. Not everyone with a disability chooses to be ‘an inspiration’, so perhaps leave the judgments aside and say ‘Hey! I hope you’re having a great day!’

About the Writer:

Eliza Ault-Connell AM, is a wife, mother of three, Para Athlete and lover of life. Born and raised in Sydney Australia, she is an advocate for Meningococcal Disease awareness, positive body image and diversity and inclusion. In her spare time, Eliza loves to be active, out on the water, up a mountain and taking in life. Currently, Eliza is working toward racing for Australia at the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics.