Wednesday after Wednesday people in the cerebral palsy (CP) community gather on Twitter for the live weekly chat #CPChatNow. To tell you all about the chat from Wednesday, December 14th, 2022, I am chat co-host Zachary Fenell. Let us get on with the recap!

An innate ability to understand each other remains one characteristic which has solidified our community. We showcased said understanding December 14th.

Utilizing our hashtag, Timmy shared some humorous bad news and good news. The bad news, he tripped on his way to the lab in the morning. For the good news, Timmy revealed he did not spill a drop of his coffee! His comedic tweet received eight likes.

Transitioning to a more serious note, Stephen sparked dialogue with a question.

Stephen asked the chat, “What is the one thing you (are) proud of this year?” Veronica answered, “My youngest graduated from ASU.” Meanwhile, I stated, “The release of Slow and Cerebral, and the five five-star reviews Amazon readers have given the book.” Replying himself, Stephen shared his pride for, “going back to the exceptional foundation and my involvement in CPChatNow.”

As the night continued, discussion turned to seeing differences positively.

Admittedly, I brought up the topic when sharing a cartoon my uncle sent my way. Within the cartoon a single lopsided Christmas tree stands in a field alongside many tree stumps. A thought bubble with the words, “Hey! Maybe being different is a good thing!” hangs above the lopsided tree. Inspired by the comic, I asked, “How has being different been a good thing for you?”

Answering myself, I explained, “My differences have taught me the importance of representation. Plus CP and my physical inabilities led me to writing and where I am now.” AcquiDis also answered, saying, “Difference causes the individual to reflect of their own norms whether they be in relation to disability, gender, race.”

How about you? Answer for the extend-the-conversation question, “How has being different been a good thing for you?”

Answer below in the comments. Afterwards, set a reminder to join us every Wednesday on Twitter. The fun begins at 8pm ET.

Until then, remember. Don’t blend in. Blend out!

-Zachary