We often hear the phrase “seeing is believing”, but I’d like to offer a counterpoint: “the more you look, the less you see”. 

This idea is perfectly illustrated by the two noteworthy individuals I’m about to introduce. They prove that limitations are often self-imposed, and that true vision transcends physical sight.

Derek Rabelo: Riding the Waves of Possibility

Picture the crashing waves of the ocean, the sheer power and unpredictability of nature’s raw force. Now imagine navigating that force not with sight, but with pure instinct and feel. That’s precisely what Derek Rabelo, a Brazilian surfer, does every time he steps onto his board.

“I had a dream to surf because I always lived near the beach. I could hear the ocean and I could feel the sound of the waves.” Derek Rabelo.

Born blind, Derek refused to let his lack of sight hold him back from his passion.  Instead, he embraced it, developing an incredible sensitivity to the ocean’s rhythm. He “sees” the waves through the sounds they make, the vibrations they send through his board, and the feel of the water against his skin.

Derek’s story is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to adapt and overcome, demonstrating that our perceived limitations are often just that – perceived. By trusting his other senses and embracing his unique perspective, Derek not only conquers the waves but also inspires countless others to break down their own barriers.

Jim Stovall: Finding Humour in the Unexpected

Now, let’s turn our attention to someone quite different: Jim Stovall, an accomplished author, speaker, and entrepreneur. Jim lost his sight as an adult, a life-altering event that could have easily shattered his ambitions. 

But Jim, like Derek, chose a different path. He embraced his new reality with humour and resilience, becoming an inspiration to us all.

As side note, when I first encountered Jim Stovall, I had no idea he was blind.  The way he commanded the stage, his background as an olympic swimmer and then a sports journalist, already made him remarkable.  When he revealed his blindness, I was gobsmacked!

In the above video, Jim recounts a hilarious anecdote about his first speaking engagement after losing his sight. 

His story, brimming with wit and self-deprecation, highlights his ability to find humour in the face of adversity. 

Jim’s journey reminds us that life throws curveballs, but it’s our reaction to them that truly defines us.

” I defy you to find a statue or a monument ever erected to anyone because they were realistic. All dreamers, all achievers, all great people kept their child-like faith in their own dream and their ability to carry it out, and these great people had an inordinate gift to disregard the word’s cries for reality” Jim Stovall

The Takeaway: Rethinking Limitations

Both Derek and Jim exemplify the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges. They teach us that our senses, while valuable, are not the only way to experience and understand the world.

By embracing our inner strength, adaptability, and a healthy dose of humour, we can overcome immense obstacles and achieve extraordinary things.

So, the next time you face a challenge, remember Derek and Jim. Remember that limitations are often self-imposed, and that we are capable of much more than we give ourselves credit for!

Reflect,  Redefine,  Rise!

R.