When I am weary, lost and don’t know how I’m going to get through the next hurdle

the love of my disabled brothers is my anchor.

Their warm, tight embrace a gentle stroke of the hand or a quick kiss, when I least expect,

it is so welcoming and so needed

it is a real tonic to soothe my tired soul,

“I grew up in an environment where I didn’t receive love from my parent in the way I needed.

I was invisible to them.

However, my relationship with my disabled brothers was different.

Despite the challenges, our connection was rooted in love and understanding.

It’s been a unique dynamic where my sibling and I found solace and affection in each other’s presence,

Their love is simple, yet profound, reminding me that I’m never alone

and that together, we can overcome anything.

Like the trip we took few years ago to my village in Pakistan with my disabled brothers,

and what should have been a joyful homecoming quickly turned into a deeply uncomfortable and anger-inducing experience.

As we arrived, eager to reconnect with our roots and share in the warmth of our community,

I watched with dismay as the villagers approached my brother with pitying glances and uncomfortable whispers.

Their well-meaning but patronizing attitudes made me feel like an outsider in my own home.

The stares, the hushed conversations, the subtle avoidance

it all served as a stark reminder of the stigma and discrimination that people with disabilities face on a daily basis.

It’s heart breaking to witness first hand how society’s narrow-minded perception can strip away a person’s dignity and sense of belonging.

But amidst the frustration and anger, there was also an overwhelming sense of love and protectiveness towards my brothers.

Seeing him navigate through the discomfort with grace and resilience only reinforced my admiration for their strength.

This experience has fueled my determination to challenge status quo and advocate for greater acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities.

No one should ever feel diminished or unwelcome because of their differences.