Dream Come True

This is Ron with your Motivational Message:

The light came on at 5:00am which interrupted an intense dream. I was holding a small child in my arms who was paralyzed. In one hand I held her head softly against my chest and I could feel a great love. In the midst of my dream I was frantically searching for a baby wipe to clean the mess her frail body had made. I recall the smell seemed completely insignificant to me because she needed my help and I was there. I was there, all right, awakened by the smell of my own mess.

My caregiver gently began to clean me up, washing my armpits, hands and feet. She turned me from side to side to clean my back. She then helped me into my jeans, sliding in one leg at a time. Next came the range of motion to all four limbs; stretching my muscles, tendons, and joints. She sat me into an upright position with my legs over the bed and on the count of three transferred my body to the wheelchair. After a few adjustments, leg bag in place, she brushed my teeth, shaved my face, washed my hair, and put on my shirt and sports coat. She strapped me into my chair and I was ready to face the public. “Oh, can you help me with some coffee and maybe a plate of vegetables for energy will do.”

I texted my driver to make sure that he was on his way. Once he arrived he fastened my wheelchair to the floor of the van and pulled the safety belt across me. Thanks to Dan, I was on my way.

I was invited once again to speak to a group of over 70 Oregon State University students. As I rolled my chair in front of them, it amazed me how quickly they warmed up to me. I was more than likely their first experience with a quadriplegic. Over the next 45 minutes I challenged them to take a PMA (Positive Mental Atittude) test. I closed by reminding them as educators they would face children with disabilities on a regular basis. I pleaded with them to love openly and look for the opportunities beyond limitations. It was then I realized my dream of compassion from the night before came true. This eager group of students understood the message and I am confident they will face the next child with compassion. With a belief that nothing is impossible with a helping hand from others, their lives will be enriched. Now go take on your day and may your dream come true.

To your inspiration,

Ron

P.S. I almost didn’t have a driver, thank God for Dan, who not only got me there, but got me a cup of coffee.