An Open Letter To Someone With Epilepsy

Have you ever wondered what actually defines us as people? Is it what we look like, how we act, who we hang around with, or even how successful we are? What do you think it is that defines you? Is it those ripped jeans that you bought on sale last week or the flu you developed yesterday? Or is it your sense of humour that allows you to write those witty comments on social media?

Well truth be told, it's a very good question with a pretty winded reply. (where's the fast forward button?)

I have epilepsy. Nevertheless, does this come under the definition of me if one was to look me up under a dictionary? No, of course not. What ultimately defines us is our character. How we contribute to the world. We are so incredibly different - unique to phrase it nicely. However,  as part of human nature we strive to conform to society; in our so desperate need of acceptance and reassurance. In doing so, we are abandoning our unique qualities, traits, beliefs and ideas.

What we don't realise is that society NEEDS us to be different. In order for new inventions to come about, we need creators - these beget from having ideas that differ from what is currently on the market. We need people who are experimental, not afraid to try something new, not afraid to demonstrate their individuality and authenticity, to raise their inner voice - in order to test the waters for imperative things such as cures for cancers. We need abnormalities. We need 'disorder' in the sense of people not conforming to the status quo.

I think we forget how over 7 billion people on this planet were born outstandingly different. We are all original. Each person's brain is wired in its own unique fashion. So why don't we embrace this instead of slandering people for those whose mind noticeably operates in a distinctive way? Instead of pitying these people and expressing sympathy, show your appreciation for them and for how their mind works. Like a plant that needs to be watered in order to gorgeously blossom, we need to do the equivalent with our nearest and dearest. We need to feed them with our love and gratitude for the way they are. Because really, who really know whats incredible ideas they've got going on up there.

To be honest, I am one of the lucky ones. I have it under control. I even forget I have epilepsy most of the time (...did this wan take her meds?) I've accepted that it is apart of me, but epilepsy is most certainly, NOT me. It's simply just an aspect of what makes up my brain cells. It's not even a quality of mine. It's merely just another element that demonstrates the differential of each and everyone's DNA.

My epilepsy Does.Not.Characterise.Me.

Are you going to let any disorder determine who you are? I certainly don't.