Race for inclusivity on the track of exclusion

I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul. – William Ernest Henley

 

Nature bestows birthmarks of 'impairment', doctors pronounce verdict of 'deformity', society brands as 'useless', families shield from 'failures', teachers embrace as 'special', and colleagues perceive as 'fragile': defining hallmarks of an arduous marathon –a race marked by exclusivity!

From birth to infancy, from childhood to adolescence, from adulthood to youth, and from maturity to advanced age, entire life of a differently abled person is often spent racing on an exclusive track in an unending quest of inclusivity.

Participation in this double-tracked marathon - one lane reserved exclusively for apparently 'less competent' contestants - in pursuit of a level-playing field seems like an endless endeavour. Few contestants aspire to cross the finish line; many find solace in crossing smaller milestones, content with incremental progress rather than chasing the ultimate goal. Yet, I believe, the ultimate reward - the triumph of breaking through barriers - is well within reach, no matter how limited one's inner courage and strength may seem.

Personally, I count myself among the few contestants striving for the last post, determined to reach the finish line.

Even before the starting whistle was blown, my adventure was riddled with warnings, doubts and skepticism. I was cautioned about the risks, reminded of the potential failures, and my skill to compete against seasoned opponents was repeatedly questioned.

When the race finally began, defying all the odds, obstacles emerged in various forms - negative slogans, discouraging remarks, and an overwhelming wave of cheers and support directed towards my opponents. These challenges threatened to slow my pace, and, I admit that some moments indeed caused temporary setbacks, but thankfully, they never extinguished my persistence. Ironically, the guiding chants, suggesting me to avoid direct confrontation and to maintain a safe distance from professional athletes, became the catalysts for my resolve. Their doubts fueled my desire to take charge, devise my own strategies, and prove my capabilities. Amidst the isolation I faced in a packed arena, I found an unshakable resolve: to seize this moment, showcase my abilities, and send a powerful message – that competition on equal footing is not just a dream but a reality waiting to be claimed.

This racing track is a reflection of a complex life journey of differently abled individuals, struggling to overcome personal limitations but also to earn equal opportunities in a world that often hesitates to acknowledge, rather underestimates their true potential.

As someone who has been visually challenged since birth, I have lived this marathon at every stage of my life. Time and again, I have been discouraged to make my own choices and take decisions for myself by arguing that my physical vulnerability could render me incapable to navigate this ruthless world. The concept of trial and error was deemed unsuitable for someone like me, yet, this constant reminder of perceived weakness gradually helped me develop a mechanism to identify my inner strengths and explore the doors remained open to me.

Growing up I witnessed my elders and well-wishers meticulously planning a secure and comforting future on my behalf, instead of feeling reassured or taken aback, this ignited within me an unconscious urge to challenge their assumptions. I became determined to carve my own path and prove that I am fully capable of shaping my own destiny.

Hence, the desire to pull myself out of despair and push myself to the limit has always been stronger than the obstacles in my way.

Despite the rocky and uneven terrain, I have armed myself with resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in my ability to succeed. This marathon has taught me that inclusivity is not just about receiving opportunities, but about claiming them with zeal and conviction.

The finish line may still seem distant, but I am determined to keep running, not just for my own self but for countless others who yearn to break free from the chains of exclusion and step into a world of equality and inclusion.

For, at last, we are the masters of our fate, and captains of our souls!