During an interview I was once asked, “what is unique about you?" I struggled with how to answer, because the first thought that came to my mind was the title line from the No Doubt song, "I'm Just a Girl." I truly do feel as though I am "just a girl," like any other. I went to high school — check, I went to college — check, I go on vacation with my family, I enjoy spoiling my nephews, I hang out with my friends, I exercise. These are things many people do and enjoy. I think the interviewer was hoping I would reply to his question with some sort of, "the key to my success is…" type of response. But the reality is that there is no special recipe or formula, no secret sauce that can be detailed in an exposé, as I am simply "just a girl" who happens to have had something unfortunate occur and is just trying to live the best life that I can.
We all strive to do the best we can, because truly that is all any of us can do when life happens.
This interview experience got me thinking about other people who have complimented me over the years in regard to how I have dealt with my spinal cord injury. Whilst I appreciate the respect and admiration, for it bolsters me when I need a little extra motivation, I do not feel worthy of such high praise. I do not see myself as some sort of paragon of strength. From my perspective, I believe that everyone has difficult things that they must learn to cope with in life; some people learn how to cope in a healthy way and others do not. Regardless, we all strive to do the best we can, because truly that is all any of us can do when life happens.
Of course, the glaringly obvious ventilator and wheelchair situation is not exactly typical, but I do not feel it is something that makes me terribly unique, rather it is simply an unfortunate occurrence with which I have learned how to live. I cannot deny that life has dealt me a few hard knocks, and will acknowledge that I have chosen to live with them, rather than allow them to destroy everything in my life. I feel as though there is no other course of action to be had. Perhaps this is a unique approach to enduring hardship in the eyes of others, whereas it is a natural and instinctive response for me. I really am "just a girl" doing the best that I can, and for those who are struggling in their own life, my advice is to remember that if you dig deep and truly strive to endure, you will succeed.
To everyone that knows you, you are so much more than “just a girl!” I will always admire how you have maintained your identity regardless of your circumstances 💕
Next time you can answer, I'm a spa, in Germany Bavaria, Bad Griesbach, or, I'm the CEO of the Griesbacher Mineral und Heilquellen GmbH in Bad Griesbach Germany Black Forest.
Or, my power and smiling is contagious!