Every day impossible challenges become possible achievements for someone. Ten years ago today, I became permanently paralyzed. On May 26, 2001, I suffered an unprovoked disc rupture that pressed against my spinal cord, leaving the lower half of my body permanently paralyzed. Life, as I knew it, was over. My doctors tell me they have never heard of a case like mine. They and I don't know why this happened, but it did happen. I had a choice-wallow in the why and feel sorry for myself or create a new life. For me, it was not much of a choice. So, this month I celebrate 10 years of my new life.
Loss amplifies that which remains
As I approach this 10-year milestone, I have reflected on how my life has changed. Now, you might be asking why I celebrate 10 years in a wheelchair, Becoming paralyzed is without question the worst thing that has ever happened to me. Life is a constant struggle. But at the same time, the experience has allowed me to take stock of all that I have and cut through the clutter of daily life.
Rather than be preoccupied with the things I can't do, I decided to focus on the things I can do and might do. New doors have opened that I never could have foreseen. I'm as active as ever. I teach, write, speak and serve on numerous boards. I host a program called "Uncommon Leadership," where I interview exceptional people who have achieved uncommon success. So, my loss has also provided me with important perspective on life.
Many things are important, but few things really matter
If you're like me, you make to-do lists. While those lists are important, most of the items don't really matter. What really matters to me is my family. In the past 10 years, I have seen my son, Mark, and daughter, Laura, graduate from college and become vibrant adults. This year I will be rolling down the aisle with Laura as she gets married. Of course, my wife, Gail, of 30 years is my hero and inspiration. Without her, I'm not sure I would be writing this note.
We all will encounter adversity at some point in our lives
It's a cliche to say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Most people can accept that it's generally true. Since my injury, I've had the opportunity to have numerous conversations with people who have been through life-altering events. I've discovered that everyone will face at least one of four types of adversity in their lives-career, financial, health or relationship. Most will carry the burden silently. My adversity is visual; in fact, my paralysis is confrontational. In a group I "stand" out.
Choose to go forward
Accepting adversity and moving on isn't easy and can take time. You don't have to like or somehow justify what's happened. You just need to decide you can live with it. After all, your happiness is more important than righting the injustices of the past. I've learned that there is very little we can actually control in life. But the choices we make are within our control. No one can take that control away. We can choose to go forward.
Bounce back
Some of you reading this email have never met me. Most of you probably know me only post injury. Of course, I am more than the guy in the wheelchair or the author of these monthly emails. I had a very active life and career prior to my injury. I call that life, Glenn 1.0. It was a wonderful life. I have shared my story in the Harvard Business Review, on video and through various talks. My hope is that my current life can show people they can create a new future after a crisis hits. Many of us underestimate our ability to withstand adversity. We don't realize that we're capable of doing and achieving more than we think. People won't remember how far you fall but rather how high you bounce back.
Thank you!
My new life, Glenn 2.0, is a work in progress. I'm no longer who I was, and I'm not yet who I'm becoming. After all, I'm only 10 years into it. I know that this life is full of new adventures. I may experience them sitting down, but for me, I am standing taller than ever. Thank you for your ongoing support.
