Let me tell you something most people won’t admit: Sometimes, it’s not just society that pushes you down. Sometimes it’s the people closest to you. And sometimes—it’s even people within your own disabled community.
I’ve been called bossy, pushy, loud, dramatic, stubborn. But I’ve got news for them: I’m persistent.
I’m consistent.
I’m outspoken.
I’m audacious.
I’m confident.
So call me what you want—I’ve already rewritten the script.
That strength didn’t come out of thin air. It wasn’t gifted to me. It was built, brick by brick, every time I was underestimated, overlooked, or outright ignored.
I’ve been fighting for access and respect since before the ADA existed. In 1988, I challenged the University of Miami for accessible bathrooms. I battled paratransit systems that treated disabled riders as an afterthought. Spoke in front of school boards demanding justice for teachers like myself, even when my own colleagues stayed silent. Danced in clubs that weren’t built for me—because no one hands you your joy.
You claim it.
And now, I want you to borrow some of that strength.
A friend once told me I should bottle my confidence and sell it.
Honey, if I could, I’d already be writing this from my dream house—with the pool I’ve always wanted (and deserved).
But until that day comes, I’m sharing the formula.
Audacity Magazine Turns 22!
This article is part celebration, part declaration. If I’d listened to the ones who said it couldn’t be done, you wouldn’t be reading this now.
Twenty-two years of audacious stories, voices, and truth. Let’s keep going.
Honoring ADA Month
July also marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act—a milestone built on the inner strength of people who refused to be silent. Their grit and courage laid the groundwork for so many of us to thrive today. It’s a reminder that rights were not handed to us—they were demanded, fought for, and claimed.
The Formula: 8 Rules for Inner Strength
1. Reframe the Labels
Words like “bossy,” “pushy,” and “difficult” are often code for “you made me uncomfortable by standing your ground.”
So flip it:
Bossy → Leader
Pushy → Relentless
Difficult → Clear about what I want and not afraid to say it
Whenever someone labels you, ask: Is this about me—or about their comfort zone?
2. Strength in Words: Yours and Theirs
Write to your future self. Track today’s wins and wounds. Keep a journal that tells the truth, not just the polished version. Listen to voices who’ve been there—Judith Heumann, Haben Girma, Dr. Henry Viscardi. Borrow their fire until yours roars again.
3. You’re Not a Coupon—Stop Pleasing Everyone
Even people with disabilities might try to dim your light.
That one still stings.
Being vocal for all of us doesn’t mean they’ll all clap.
Do it anyway.
4. Take Up Space (Literally and Figuratively)
Say what you need. Ask for what you want. Be visible. Take selfies. Share your story. Wear the outfit. Post the reel. Write the truth—even if your voice shakes.
You belong in every room—even if that room has to build a ramp to let you in.
5. Power Through Performance
Some days, confidence is a performance. So dress the part.
Channel your inner rebel.
Pretending you’re the star of a documentary, “Look How I Survived.”
That’s not fake. That’s strategy.
6. Rest Like a Warrior
Rest isn’t laziness.
It’s resistance.
Refusing to burn out is how you stay in the fight.
7. Feed Your Fire
Drink juice out of the fancy glass.
Blast the song that makes you feel invincible.
Small joys are daily rebellion.
Take them seriously.
8. Celebrate Yourself—Out Loud
You got dressed? Victory.
You made that call? Gold medal.
You said “No”? Crown yourself.
Truth is, I didn’t cry. I didn’t collapse. I didn’t have a dramatic movie moment. I just kept going. And that? That’s real strength too.
One Last Thing
Inner strength isn’t about being unshakable.
It’s knowing you won’t fall apart, even when you’re shook.
So, you can borrow my audacity until you find your own. And when you do? Pass it on.
💬 Let’s Talk:
What’s one way you build inner strength?
Share it in the comments.
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