Sometimes I wonder where I've been, Who I am, do I fit in? Make believing is hard alone, Out here, on my own!   Standing in front of the crowded conference room, these lyrics run through my head as I gaze out at the expectant crowd.  It wasn't that long ago I was searching for my voice, looking to find my niche in this fast-paced world.  Knowing I had something to share, something to give to others, I wondered daily where was my place in  this galaxy of life? I didn't see people like myself in the classrooms I sat in day after day, nor did I see them in the leaders of businesses or organizations.  Who was I to emulate, who would see my dreams of independent living as viable?   That was nearly twenty-five years ago and today, as I lead this self-advocacy training, I realize so much of who I am came from taking chances.  I had to believe I could make a difference and utilize my experiences to help others achieve their dreams.  As I told the group … [Read more...]