There exists a strong supportive community which people do not voluntarily choose to belong to.
It is a diverse community. People who belong to it are of any gender or nationality or race or age. They represent all the world’s religions. They may be born into this community, or they may find themselves thrust into it by the catastrophe of accident or disease or violence. Any person could suddenly become a member at any time.
This is the nature of the community of people with disabilities.
Because of its diversity, this community is one of nonjudgmental acceptance and mutual understanding. Its members enjoy camaraderie and a sense of belonging – the validation one feels when one knows he or she is not the only one. Its members mentor one another, share lessons learned along the way, explore techniques for managing the daily obstacles and barriers they encounter, and help each other participate fully in all aspects of life.
This community networks to create an independent lifestyle for its members through individual empowerment and through social and political advocacy.
Focusing Initiatives International is a natural fit for such a community, and is beginning a project to bring Community Wellness Focusing into this world.
One person with disabilities described how Focusing enriched her life:
“Focusing helps me get the most out of life. It’s like making friends with all parts of my experiencing, even those aspects I used to hide. I don’t have to spend my energy beating down my fears if I can join together with those fearful parts and openly accept them.
I’m no longer afraid to admit that it is difficult for me to eat, that I have to concentrate on what I’m doing if I don’t want to choke.
I’m less of a people pleaser now.
Focusing helps me keep things in perspective. Worries don’t take over.
Those frightened parts of me trust me more. I know I won’t betray myself now.
When I Focus on one part of my life, I find it affects other parts of my life, too, so that I am stronger in many areas.
And I love that I don’t need physical assistance to do it because it all happens inside me.”
For more information contact our experienced team.
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