Pack Creek Ranch, San Juan County, Utah
The border between February and March 2024
The seasonal weather churn prevails – one week it feels like an early, mild Spring – and overnight a storm blasts through leaving snow and a low of 15 degrees at dawn. Another winter travel advisory is in effect for the weekend.
BORN DIFFERENT
The sophistication of modern forensic science makes it 99.9% certain that every human being is unique. Fingerprints, DNA, RNA, and other secondary indicators are clear:
There is no standard model of humanity.
Nobody exactly like you or me or anybody else exists.
Now or ever.
Think about that.
We are all born different.
And accepting and accommodating just how different has the world in turmoil – culturally, politically, socially, and legally. The daily media feed on the news programs confirms this. And if that’s all there is, then it’s a dark view of humanity.
I’ve often been asked if I am an optimist or a pessimist. Sometimes I reply that I am both – depending on the day. But I try to be a realist – to see humanity with open eyes.
And what I notice is as often inspiring as it is depressing. One way I remind myself of the power within the people is to view a website – Born Different. It documents the lives of unique human beings and how they manage being unique.
Some are born with no legs, some with no arms, and some conjoined with a twin. Some cannot hear or see. And they find a way to be included and prevail. Some fall in love and marry and have children. Some become teachers, athletes, coaches, and politicians.
The videos show the courage of their parents.
Some show the courage of their doctors.
Some show the growing sensitivity of their world that does not see them as freaks but as unique human beings.
That many of those who are Born Different go out into the world to inspire others like them to make the most of who and what they are, while also inspiring me to get up and get on with what I can do and be with what I am.
I defy you to watch the stories of those Born Different and feel sorry for yourself or to not be inspired by the bright and shining spirit that exists alongside all the harsh and dark news of the world.
One word of advice – have a box of tissues handy while you watch the stories of those Born Different.