Deep Teacher-Shadow TeacherLisa Lindahl2022-05-18T16:06:51-04:00
Poet and spiritual advisor Mark Nepo refers to fear, pain, and grief as “deep teachers.” For me, these are my “shadow teachers,” as having epilepsy employs all of them. Living with any disability employs all of them–fear, pain, grief–at some point or points. Repeatedly.
I took the opportunity during my acceptance speech at the National Inventors Hall of fame to share with the audience of 350 scientists, sponsors, other inventors, and the press that the obstacle/challenge of being “differently-abled” can be a gift, albeit in odd packaging. It has helped me (forced me?) to create new solutions to old problems as well as everyday challenges (that may not be any challenge at all to most others).
This deep, shadow teacher has taught me to never take anything as a given or as predictable. It has allowed me unique perceptions and imbued innate compassion for others’ differences.
Dare I be grateful for this shadow teacher, Epilepsy, that, despite lacing my life with fear, pain, and grief, has also gifted me with perception, perspective, and a knack for deep reflection? With inventiveness!
