The Birth of a Magazine

What does it feel like to give birth to something that no one else has ever conceived of? And what does it feel like to bring to the forefront idea’s that could change disabled men and women’s lives for ever? Well, I’ll tell you. I think it takes a dedicated, in-tune, and highly motivated person to bring ideas to the front- line of society which no one else has had the courage to challenge.

The birth of Audacity Magazine has opened the doors, I’m sure for many. Not just for those writers, like me, who have some kind of physical disability or special needs who audaciously want to make this not only a better place for others, but also wants to bring a cutting-edge approach to those issues at hand, that affect so many of us; which are so easily swept under the carpet. But, also, has brought food for thought for 6 years now to all of its readers and subscribers.

This magazine has brought to its readers a cheeky, daring, and fearless way of approaching the truth from a different perspective and point of view. Its angle has come from the disability community. Its thoughts! Its words! And, all its power! Focusing, directly, on the issues of the day-

I’m sure; the birth of this magazine took to heart all the issues and fragile topics of its disabled population. I’m sure, that when the first issue appeared online; it was a very happy, joyous, momentous, occasion. I’m sure it brought an inward satisfaction to Natasha, the founder of Audacity. To see something materialize, from nothing; and to be shaped, formed, and molded from scratch, that truly, must have been gratifying, indeed. And, to be so focused, so dedicated, and so committed to nurture, and develop, story after story, month after month, year, after year, took much planning, much pride, and much perseverance.

To have the ability to not only write, and to educate, but to shape and influences other people’s thoughts and views is highly commendable. It takes a person with great vision to broaden one’s opinion and scope- it takes an idea, an act, and a concept to bring such a dream to pass.

It took a creative energy, to bring about the birth of this magazine. Thus, let’s light Audacity’s birthday cake with 7 brightly lit candles, to light its way for its fruitful year ahead.

Tags: Disability topics and issues
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A New President in Office

Yesterday, like many of millions of people, I stayed glued to the T.V. watching Barack Obama take the presidential oath. I found myself reflecting back to a time in my past when Martin Luther King Jr. gave his "I had a dream" speech. I was only 12 years old.   Now, I find myself reflecting on the importance of this day, our world, how far we have come, and now, 45 years later, seeing for my very own eyes an African American with similar determination and a will of firmness and purpose become President of our United States of America..  

My eyes welled up with hope, as tears of promise and resole spoke sweetly from the presidents voice. I welled up with the hope of hope that he well transform our world and our lives like never seen before.  I shed tears from my past and what I have gone through, and tears that these kind of atrocities will never happen to other disabled people again. 

I understand a more subtle but no less real form of stereotyping.  I have spent a life time working toward full inclusion, but am still struggling with the spider web of social security.  It is ridiculous that a woman who has published a book, won a law suit, created a website, got one of her degrees despite what the experts said; should be offer entry level jobs designed for people thirty years younger.  If I were a member of any other group the outrage felt over this injustice would have exploded the universe. It would have been a Watts Riot in hell.  I truly believe that our new president should look to the untapped energy, and, the un unsung leaders  of our community to help solve the other problems he is struggling with.

All of us have expended immeasurable amounts of discipline, time, and energy  fighting the system to live self-directed normal lives.  It would be very nice if our leaders from both parties and all levels of our government would take the time to hear and listen, and wear our moccasins for a day.  I think that there should be councils of people with disabilities to sit and serve on all levels of government to protect the vital interest of our community.  

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