On June 6th, I was fortunate; the word used in appreciation as you get older to be counted among the crowd—fortunate to attend the event held in David Pecaut Square in the heart of downtown Toronto.
The first of its kind, titled Access Fest, is named for the event’s celebration of inclusion and representation of those living with disability
The event featured those whose disability has not stopped them from looking past their discomfort to achieve their goals. Of course, the journey was not easy, but with the help of others who saw their potential assisted in helping them to achieve success.
The first speaker who introduced the event when I arrived in the afternoon, I saw years pass by at an event hosted for Dan Kennedy—Magnetic Marketing, who had an impact on me emotionally, and who I admire to this very day.
As I sat listening to each speaker’s experience to overcome, my thoughts drifted to a quote used by Karun Pal on Subtract, who titled his post, “The day I aged 20 years in 3 weeks, from a book he read. Wrote: The two most important days of your life are the day you were born, and the day you find out why.” Indeed, as we are in this world to learn from each other and our environment. Each one of us is here, whether short or long, for a purpose. And the day you find your purpose is the day you find out why.
The quote used is by Mark Twain, “Before you learn anything, learn who you are.”
As I ponder on my thoughts while observing the crowd and listening to some of what is being said, I thanked our Heavenly Father for the clarity of my journey. Each day, I must struggle spiritually and physically through a crowd to freedom. Freedom that comes when you stop pretending because you know who you are, and are capable of making your own choices.
Secrets kept are like prisons; you are controlled by others. Truth, on the other hand frees your soul and mind and opens doors.
In whatever capacity we are limited, the mind plays the most important part in our survival. Just as your body needs training, your mind needs repetition. Repetition to overcome pain, stress, and mental interruption. Repetition to focus, to breathe. When your mind becomes fit, you can know when your nervous system is overloaded.
Trust me, your body tells you. The repetitions mentioned above no longer function with ease. Your body as well as your emotions become weak, weak enough that you cannot withstand the external pressures of words people throw at you, or things you observe. And it is within that state of weakness that you react without caring for yourself and, at times, damage people and others’ property.
The time is now for each one to take control of their lives, so as not to damage themselves or others.
Now is the time for each one to become observant of their environment and equip themselves with knowledge that inspires growth and mental health.
To summarize: This reflection on Access Fest highlights resilience, purpose, and the power of community support. It emphasizes that disability does not define a person’s potential, and that growth comes through self-awareness, truth, discipline, and caring for mental and emotional well-being.
Thanks for reading. Wishing you all good health until next time. For those who have not subscribed to my blog, do so, so as not to miss out on upcoming news and reflections.
Better The End 