Holding My Head High

I'm getting to be more and more open with people in my community about my experiences with schizophrenia. On occasion someone will ask me what I do for work or what brought me to Brattleboro. Each of these questions can easily lead into my disclosing that I have schizophrenia.
In times past when I was asked what brought me to Brattleboro, I would say I had friends in town. If someone asked me what type of work I was looking for I would say whatever I can get. I am really working on developing a career as a peer specialist. I wouldn't say that because I was unsure of what people would think of me given my circumstances.
Stigma by definition is a mark of disgrace a stain or defect, degeneration or disease. Having a disability is no mark of disgrace of defect. We do not need to see our illness as something to hide. It is often much easier to see good character in another person than it is in ourselves. Those whom you interact with will more often than not see the good character in you as you share your story. They will know that you are courageous to carry on despite your circumstances.
As I said earlier I'm getting to be more open about my experiences with schizophrenia. I have come to a place of inner knowing. I am able to see now that I'm not responsible for my circumstances. I understand my illness and know that I'm not lazy. I finally know that I can hold my head up high. I have come a long way down a rocky and narrow path.