Aimee Mullins and Identity

Aimee Mullins gave a very meaningful presentation on how everyone has the power to influence another person’s life.  However, first they must believe in themselves and the wonderful potential that each individual has.  No one really has a disability, just the ability to make the most of the life they are given.  It’s a matter of attitude rather than physical capability.  How you influence those around you is made up of who you are as a person and what characteristics set you apart from everyone around you.  It’s not a matter of fitting in and being “normal” but rather what makes you different.

            When looking at myself and my impact on my friends, family and community, I believe my greatest traits are my honesty and open- mindedness.  They are traits my parents taught me throughout my entire childhood, and they play such a huge role in the person I am today.  Although honesty can sometimes be misinterpreted and sometimes hurtful, my intentions are always good.  Honesty brings about a level of comfort with someone because you know they will be upfront with you rather than sugar coating information or opinions.  Keeping an open mind has also opened so many door and new friendships throughout my life.  I found this primarily through volunteering at Special Olympics events.  The children and adults I work with are always the happiest and most appreciative people.  There are many people I know, that if faced with the same situation, would not have such a positive outlook on life.  I’ve heard derogatory statements made about the people I work so closely with, but I can guarantee my friends in Special Olympics are far better people than the individuals that feel the need to use hurtful words to put another person down.  Keeping an open mind has given me the chance to see the world for what it is and find friends that I never would have expected to have.