“While people tend to pity all visually-impaired people in general, I believe it’s unfortunate only if folks lose their vision mid-ways. For those like me, who are born blind, it’s never been a hindrance; rather, just an altered way of life! The condition, in fact, has helped me to mingle with others in a similar state, from very early on, thereby never protecting me from any form of disparity.

Things, although, weren’t quite the same at birth. My parents had separated in a few years and I was at that heart-breaking moment where I was asked to choose between the two. What saved me from all that and further trauma was my school! Studying at ‘Paalayankottai’s School For The Blind’ was probably the best decision of my life, specifically due to the wonderful teachers there, who always went out of their way to support us. Besides making some lifelong friends, I was able to learn skills that aid me monetarily till date.

Fixing chairs and cushioning for instance, which happens to be my main source of income today, was something I picked up in school. The little things taught there helped get adequate exposure to the outside world whilst providing me a safe circle to lean back on, whenever needed.

Now, having come from such an environment, my only regret was subsequently dropping out of college due to financial constraints. My mother had passed away around then and it ampled the necessity to get work, in order for me to stay afloat. Life at that point did feel unfair again for a brief bit before it threw in an unexpected surprise in the form of my wife, who was a co-worker at the same space.

Falling in love with her was a plot twist I never saw coming and one that I’m incredibly grateful for! Of course, our decision to marry subsequently, again was frowned upon by many, especially since both of us couldn’t see.

However I knew I wanted to follow my heart and that decision has accelerated me into 15 years of marital bliss with two beautiful, perfectly normal children, that I get to call mine! My kids and wife are my biggest blessings and I truly feel content today with my small family of four.

My son specifically takes such good care of me and has helped me overcome even the tiniest of obstacles I was facing previously. Times do get better for those who believe in it, and I’m sure in the years to come, my kids will accelerate the family to a better state; And I’ll be standing there at the end of my life, beaming with pride!”

#chennai #journey #visualimpairment #life #hardships #lifelessons #inspire #motivation #chennai #HumansofMadras