Let’s face it, we’ve changed. We are not the same people we once were before we
became disabled. Our disabled circumstances have changed us from the person we used to be.
A lot of times it’s for the better. We understand life more. We deal with the challenges. We
learn to be more patient. We have most likely become attuned to life’s trials and tribulations.
We long for what could be, but accept the here and now. We understand our limitations
and do our best to move forward. However, some people move in the opposite direction. They
become bitter, depressed and turn on life. The disability has hardened their soul and sucked the
life out of them.

It’s difficult to change from the inside out. I mean… you just can’t tell yourself you’re
going to be happy. That might work for five minutes. The best way to change your attitude is
through your behavior – the outside-in approach. If you don’t feel happy, act happy. If you
don’t feel loving, act loving. In short, act the way you want to feel, not the way you feel. And
yes, I am saying put up a façade around others. You’d be surprise how behavior can affect your
attitude. Fight for your well-being.

No, it’s not wrong to feel bad, unhappy, sad, disappointed, depressed or any other
detrimental emotions. It’s all part of life. It’s feeling these things ALL the time that’s the
problem. People don’t want to be around someone who’s a downer. It gets old very quickly and
they probably won’t be around you too long. Be upbeat! And when these people are surrounded
by your positive energy they’ll be lifted up and in return you’ll be elevated. Hopefully over time
and through your actions you’ll suppress unhealthy feelings and convince yourself that you are
happy. You are loving. You are good. I know this may seem radical but why take the
alternative. Even with a disability, you deserve the best for yourself.

Jeff Charlebois is a “sit-down” comedian, blogger and quadriplegic