Final Trip

YESTERDAY---ended up being my last trip to the state capitol and learning about how to become a good self advocate within a community that I dearly love so much was incredible. I am obviously aware that my own involvement seemed at times just kind of like a glimpse into how much having my voice heard, matters.

I may not know too much about what so many individuals like me, are faced up with every day and yet I wanted to do whatever it took to make sure my voice was being heard. I participated fairly well in all the trainings we had scheduled which if you ask me, was a little more fun when I was able to give my input when it was needed. I still have so much more to adapt and learn along this journey, which is far from all being over in society. 

I was able to learn that sharing our personal stories means a lot to our legislators and getting our important message across is crucial. I am grateful for the many people who stuck with me throughout this experience and helped all of us realize that we can do anything--no matter how difficult it may be at times. I am truly grateful for the times I was able to bring a smile to the faces of my fellow colleagues and self advocates--who were in attendance. 

EARLIER THAT DAY---We did our self guided tour of the Capitol building and were able to listen in on one of the many sessions that was taking place. I definitely was able to watch and observe what all of our state legislators have to work on every single day throughout the legislative process. After we left from the session, all of us headed to where our next training would be and luckily it was not as crowded of a room like it was the day before. I really appreciated everyone getting a chance to share brief intros about themselves and why they were there with us at the capitol. 

We ended up taking a fairly good break throughout the training and having a chance to unwind for what seemed like a very long time, but it was much needed. Did I forget to mention we started with lunch & then went right into business with things? I definitely handled things a little better with my anxiety just being the way it is and trying to soak in what was being shared by people. I was grateful for the support with my colleagues who were sitting next to me and quietly cheering me on throughout the day, which I sincerely appreciated more than they could ever know. 

Legislative Reception (Mini Version)

This aspect of my legislative experience was definitely at times more overstimulating than I would have liked it to be. However, I was able to finally meet my representative in person and learn about how they genuinely care about what people with disabilities in our state need. It was definitely getting a little too much for me when I was clearly prepared to head out for the night and get home before the night went on any longer. I look forward to what the next year will bring and hope to not feel as intimidated or let alone stressed out with things. I was able to listen to some music when I needed something to take my mind off what was going on. I am grateful for what I am able to do and the people I get to work fairly closely with in our state, who are dedicated in making our sure the disability community has a voice, when it comes to having our needs met from public officials. 

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