Why differences don't mean you can't succeed

One of my most overwhelming childhood memories is people commenting on my differences. Adults felt that they had a right to comment to my grandmother about what I was or wasn't doing. Usually, it was over me being shy, not talking, or being perceived as rude. Sadly, 28 years later, when my son was born, not much had changed. 

Initially, the comments were about his size. He was born weighing 620 grams, and even when he was 5, he was the size of a 2-year-old. People would comment, "Is he a tiny baby?" As he got bigger, the comments changed to comments around his atypical development. Sadly, I am sure that most, if not all, of you will have had similar experiences of people commenting about your child. 

It can and does become overwhelming and upsetting, not just for the parents but also for the child. These comments make it seem like people are putting an invisible ceiling on your child's abilities and potential. 

The other day, I came across this quote:

"I hate when people ask me, "Why are you so quiet?" Because I am. That's how I function. I don't ask others, "Why are you so noisy? Why do you talk so much?" It's rude."  

This quote is from Rowan Atkinson, who gained a BSc from Newcastle University before earning an MSc from The Queen's College Oxford. He hasn't just had academic success; they have also become one of the nation's most loved actors. 

Just because a person doesn't conform to people's expectations of normal doesn't mean that they won't achieve in life. Sometimes, it is good to be reminded of that!