Three weeks before the pageant we, the contestants, met for the first time for orientation. There, even I, disabilities, medical problems and all was humbled by the awesome strength and determination that was displayed by all 13 contenders.
There was some with Cerebral Palsy, others who were Quadriplegics, had Down Syndrome and unknown disabilities. But the most amazing to me were two young sisters, ages 3 & 10 years old, with Spina Bifida. What was so amazing is the marvelous joy they exuded, which I believe was what kept their extremely giving family so strong. With just a tiny smile the whole room lit up and everyone fell totally in love, wanting to scoop them up and take them home.
After our meet and greet, they fed us a lunch with many new and exciting things to try.
Let me pause for moment and explain, we each brought a companion, mine being my wonderfully sweet and caring daughter-in-law, Michelle. Now, Michelle is a very picky eater, so...
She had me try every food, especially the more exotic looking stuff and then entertained herself by watching each of my responses (The Brat! LOL). As we ate they went over the game plan of events.
It was a blast! My most favorite memory of that day was the reactions I received from the others about not conforming to their ideas of a beauty pageant contestant, inner beauty or not, with my Mohawk and spirited attitude of: This is me! Take me as I am!...
I'm not going to change the way I look or the way I feel to conform to anything. I've always been a freak. So I've been a freak all my life and I have to live with that, you know. I'm one of those people.
John Lennon
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2
I am blessed
Merrym Dawn Mathis Bruce
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