I Admit "IT" I have A Problem. It is a Learning Disability
74IT is Called a Challenge of Dyslexia
This is probably one of my more personal hubs, but it is also a hub that I seek to understand myself better. I hope that you won't see me in a bad light, or worst, because of the stigma with this "problem." So here goes hubpages community.
I don't see it as a problem rather as a challenge to improve myself and others. You are probably wondering what this "problem" is: Simply put I have dyslexia. Don't know what that means, well how about this?
I can read and write and for the most part function as well as the next person. I have had years of extra help in getting this way. I have more encouragement and support than I expected, but still I want to be better. I want to help others.
I want to share my dreams with others that of writing and publishing, but I also want to share the pain that comes with having a learning disability. the pain of feeling stupid because you don't feel smart. Worse still when it comes from someone you cared about.
Instead of giving points out or explaining the technical things that anyone can find out, I'll give you my own personal life experiences.
I need to read, possibly to prove that I am not "dumb" or stupid but please don't ask me to read out loud, or at least in public, I stop and start and need time to think about each word I say. I can read very well thanks, but for some reason it often doesn't come out correctly.
It can embarrass me beyond anything that I can describe. I can feel my heart pound each time I read something that doesn't seem right to others, they will either look at me with a funny look or assume I am not as smart as I am.
If I am reading there is long pauses and time well spent as they say. To me i believe it improves the content of the book, I need to take it slow. It also drives some people nuts that i invert sentences and words and fail to add the words on the page to what I am saying. This is a part of me, and it is something that while a challenge makes me take my time a dig deeper into a book because of it.
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It is to some people very ironic that I would want to be a writer. I make mistakes. Unfortunately for me, I can't "see" these mistakes. Thanks to Tonymac04 and Wayne Ansell for being as kind as they are and are helping see where my mistakes are. I can't "see" them. it seems alright to me, but really it isn't. There are always run on sentences, and incomplete sentences and grammar that i should be able to see.
I don't no matter often I go over something.
That is frustrating, as an editor it must be even worse. If I fix something up I can usually fix the original problem, but I will in the process create a couple more. The dance happens all over again. It frustrates not only me, but my poor editor who has stuck with me for quite some time. I want to give up and say I not a writer, but I believe that one day I will be.
I believe I am a good writer, I really do, and hubpages has been a joy for me which I won't give up. The reason the community here is so positive, and I don't need to fear that they think of me as anything less than what I hope to be : A published author.
If I want to write or read it takes some planning since it takes me a long time to write something, anything, or read something for that matter. I reread things over and over so that I memorize it, partly to avoid embarrassment when I am out in public, but also to know that I can learn something.
The most frustrating aspect is that each day is a challenge reading to friends a letter, or writing something out. It takes longer to write it. Even longer if I need to go back an edit it. So why do I do this to myself?
This is what keeps me going. Something to do with my past relationships:
My husband at the time (we have since separated) made the comment once that he hated when we went out for anything. I was by nature more outgoing than I am now. I began to notice people not wanting to talk to me. I couldn't understand why. I wondered if it had anything to do with how I looked or whatever, needless to say I wasn't sure.
My husband was happy to point out the problem. I would talk and of course make grammar mistakes and afterwards, according to his version of the story people would come up to him and ask "is she stupid"; (yes those are the exact words he used.) Being the type of person he was he would say something along the lines of "well she is socially inept, and well stupid."
People would avoid me, so as not to "make me feel dumb" or feel sorry for me. He of course didn't seem to mind that we didn't have a support system, and that it only made me feel worst still. Social occasions were out, I felt dumb-- no I felt stupid, and all because I made mistakes.
It made sense at the time. I admit, I was hurt, I felt I had something to offer people. I care about how others are. Still, this hurt. I began to believe that my dyslexia was the cause of my stupidity. I had a lot to learn about myself and life.
That was wrong of me to think this. Having dyslexia does not make one stupid by any means. I was however naive not to ask the name names question.
Of course it still hurts, why shouldn't it?
But I have learned a few things about myself, and about others. One if you want to write, if you want to fulfill your dreams whatever they might be, No learning disability should stop you. No one should tell you you can't.
Yes you can.
For me this is what has helped the most:
Setting a time each day when I write, or read, or edit: I don't do all these things at once. it simply confuses me. It's complex enough to have to write, and the reread something and edit anything all at once.
Take a lot of breaks: There is no harm in doing what you want to do, but you need to take a break or two. I find if I work in fifteen minute cycles on anything to do with math, reading, writing, editing or most day to day things that require my concentration I'd better take breaks.
knowing that it's a challenge, and it's not you: some people will be cruel and this comes as no surprise and most, if not all people want to help. If they really do, let them, it doesn't hurt, and they probably can help you more than you know.
Let Your dreams come true, but be flexible:I know that publishing a book is a high goal for me. I want to see it come true and I want to be able to hold a book in my hand and have someone want to buy it. Publishing a book is my goal. It's my dream, and I don't want to give it up... maybe I'll self publish, that counts doesn't it?
I encourage everyone no matter what challenges they might have to continue with their dreams, they will get them in one shape or another. It will be for the best. To all my readers thanks for your support. (This means... dohn121, mystique1957, hypnodude, tammy lochmann, unchained grace, juneaukid, duchess o'blunt, Violet Sun, Hello, hello, Pamela99, tonymac04, Petra Vlah, Cameciob, and everyone who I forgot to mention, but thank you so much for your support) Thanks to this community I believe I will succeed.
PS my biggest dream right now is to get some sort of interview with the hubpages staff one day... wish me luck!
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After reading each and every comment I can see you are very loved and well supported here Rebecca. Your writing has obviously touched many and that is what matters the most. Not perfect grammar or spelling.
I think you know that when I started emailing you with the errors I spotted that I was only trying to help. While I guess I should have maybe known you had dyslexia in hindsight the thought never crossed my mind. As a kid just starting school I had to go to a speech therapist because I couldn't pronounce certain sounds and I was labeled a slow learner. I always had problems with spelling and grammar. I did great at everything else like math and science. I suspect I may be slightly dyslexic too. Joining the army i scored so highly i could pick any job I wanted except one, running a nuclear power plant. I chose the second hardest, Nuclear Biological Chemical, aka NBC, Warfare Specialist. These problems have nothing to do with intelligence.
So when I am trying to help via email this may truly be like the blind leading the blind here lol. (Nothing against blind people obviously.) The spelling mistakes I can spot pretty easy, but proper grammar eludes me to this day. I still guess where to put a comma at and other such things. I mostly go by what 'looks right'.
Thanks for pointing this hub of yours out to me. Its good that I understand better. I do not know what your writing process is and all but I have found Google's Chrome browser to be an amazing help for me to spell correctly. Each and every time I get a word wrong it underlines it in bright red. Normally a right click on the word offers the correct spelling. If not I highlight the word, right click then select 'Search Google for "Highlighted word(s) here"' And when even Google.com can't figure out what I meant I know I really have screwed it up badly. I just lol @ myself and start trying variations until poor Google.com can figure out what I'm trying to spell.
This spelling corrector works within comment fields, the text capsules and gmail even. Pretty much any place you would type within a browser. I really wish it corrected improper grammar usage too.
So my language shortcomings were a big reason I was rather afraid to try writing here. I can sorta understand how you must have felt. I was really amazed when others started following me and I received positive comments. It has done much for my self esteem. Thank You everyone.
Thanks Rebecca for sharing your wonderful hubs with all of us even though each and every one is a challenge for you to get out the door. They mean that much more to us all. :)
futuremaxima-- I have no doubt that she will be strong and powerful, thanks for the kind comment it means a lot.
As a parent of a special needs child, I hope she has as much guts as you do! God Bless you in your endeavors!
maggs224-- thanks so much, it took a bit of courage to hit publish but the support is awesome around here. thanks so much for the comment and for stopping by.
What a really great hub this is, I admire the courage and passion with which you write and I also love your writing style and the character that it flows out from. From all the comments above it is easy to see that you are well respected and well loved and from what I have read it is easy to see why.
lindylou2-- well there you go, exactly right no one is pefect, although I am certain we'd all like to be! Still, it is hard, at least there is support!
Rebecca you are a masterpiece...everyone is all we have to do is found out how we work!!! I understand everything you have said. My son who is grown was ADD. He would spell his words perfect at home but go to school and make 40 on his test. His oral communication was okay but he could not put it on paper the way his brain knew it. We went through many years of pain but nevertheless we all survived and are fine.
I can understand how you feel because there are those people who do not understand that there is actually no one that is perfect in every way. For instance I have a hearing disability that I have had since I was 24. I will write a hub about it, you have "again" inspired me. Keep at it...
Duchess-- thanks so much for the wonderful comment, it means a lot. The support is just incredible around here.
Far from making you look stupid Rebecca, this piece speaks volumes about your courage and strength. It has been a privilege to come to know you through hubpages and your blogs. It is also apparent from the many comments, you have developed a very great support system. I'm only sorry you did not have it earlier!
Thank you for sharing
Tom Cornett-- I shall dream and dream big.
You are in great company....Einstein, Edison, da Vinci. You can become as great as you want to be. Dream! :)
HealthyHanna--- yes I love spell checker and grammar although if I do write an "actual" word haven help me. speaking I think will always be hard, but it does take time and effort and all things will get better. Tahnks for the kind comment.
callmefoxxy-- you are so welcome, and thanks for this wonderful comment.
ralwus-- the challenge was to hit teh publish button but once done, it is for teh best!
I have a slight problem with this too. Thank heaven for spell checkers and grammer checkers! I do much better in writing than I do speaking off the top of my head, as my brain seems to be connected to dyslexia as well. Especially when it come to saying names.
Thanks for sharing. Sometimes we take things for granted without realizing that it is also a gift. You have much courage and will surely succeed in your goals.
callmefoxxy, my pen is a mighty sword!
God bless you girl! What a story!
MagicStarER-- thanks for the support I am glad that you are feeling better than what it was. Keep up the good work.
You go, girl! Don't ever give up! You certainly CAN do anything you want to do! And I do know what you are talking about. Many years ago (1983 or so) I was in a car accident and had a concussion. It made me so I would look at a staircase of steps and not be able to tell if they were going up or down stairs. Also, I could not read. It was horrible since reading is my LIFE! I was horrified that I might have to spend the rest of my life not being able to read, and there was no way I was going to let things stay that way!
I could see the words and knew what they were, but they did not register, or the meaning of them did not register in my brain. But I did not give up - I was not about to stay like that, so I made myself read the Bible for hours each day. I read and read, at first just a few paragraphs, then a few pages, then chapters, until I had read the whole thing. Then I went back and did it again and again. And by the end of it, I could read again. But still sometimes, I lose my train of meaning, and have to write things down so I don't forget them. After all of that, I enrolled in college and went on to graduate.
You will achieve your dream - I know you will! :)
ladyjane1-- thanks for the kind comment it means a lot to me, it really does. thanks for stopping by and intelligence and writing are two things I can do well =)
I thought your hub was very interesting and know that having dyxlesia is not an intelligence thing. You are very intelligent and a great writer. Im a fan.
prettydarkhorse-- thanks so mcuh for the comment and for the encouragement. My wishes to you are as much success as you can handle.
You can RebeccaE, what a strong and courageous LADY you are, keep on inspiring people and writing it is a gift! Thanks and I wish you the BEST, and may your wishes come true, Maita
lovelypaper-- if it gives people hope that they can do it, then my work is for good. I am humbled and pleased and ecouraged by the many comments here.
Thank you for sharing your "problem" with us. It must take some courage to do this. We all have problems that we are too embarrassed to admit or share with others, but you are an incredible person and writer, dyslexia or not!
Rose West-- that I will never do. I won't give up.
Dolores-- I am just one person but my goals are to help others and to grow as a writer.
Amber---you are most welcomed. But yes franly I am a bit surprised about the support, To an extent, of course. Tahnks so mcuh for teh published author comment, you are right I am.
You've shared so much about yourself in this. I really didn't guess about the dyslexia. I always enjoy your hubs; you have a distinct voice. Never ever give up!
Rebecca, you are something else. To think that you have dyslexia and write such wonderful hubs is frankly amazing. You have such guts and determination, not to mention great writing, you are an inspiration to all of us who whine about our problems, our writer's block, or anything else. Cheers for Rebecca!
Hi Rebecca E
I must admit it, I'm totally amazed by your honesty and your frankness in bringing your dyslexia into the open. It can't have been easy for you but I'm also amazed by how common dyslexia appears to be. What I wasn't surprised about was the support you received. You are a wonderful person and this comes out in all your hubs and in the number of followers that you have. This is the Hubpages community working at it best. You are already a published author in my mind as you have published 89 hubs. Keep pursuing your dreams. Amber
creativeone59-- that will be very helpful thanks for commenting on this hub. I think I surprised more than a few people, but I was stunned by teh support people have given me.
RS Wright-- It is so true there are so many different form of dyslexia, and for me it is simply I have trouble with writing and reading outloud, but give me complex theories, I can boil it down very simply. But then that is hw my mind works.
But the education system has a hard time understanding that at the best of times, we are all intelligent in our own ways.
Thank you Rebcca for being such a sweet heart and having enough guts to tell everyone your problem, but I'm sure I make justa as many mistakes as you, although I have been trying to do corrections along the way. Well since everyone knows now, we will all be trying to help out. You will succeed in all your writing b ecause you have such bless you dear. creativeone59
My 17 year old son is dyslexic. There are MANY forms of dyslexia.
When he was in kindergarten his teacher, complete idiot I must add, told us that he was antisocial (I am married to a doctor, antisocial is the "nice" term for sociopathic) because he didn't like to take part in their daily "letter exchanges. In third grade his teacher told us that he was probably retarded; those were her exact words, because he wasn't learning to read. She completely ignored his brilliant and intuitive understanding of geometry, base systems, zero concept and probability.
We took him out of school and never sent him back.
When we realized what was happening with his reading and writing we did NOT view it as a disability. The symbology might be difficult for him but the ability to conceptualize was there in abundance. In other words: it was a challenging gift, not a disability. It wasn't something that he was allowed to feel shame because of it. Many great minds have been dyslexic... you wouldn't believe the number of engineers, physicists, architects and mathematicians who are dyslexic!
Once we found the best way for him to decipher the symbols of letters, a rather unnatural act when you realize that it requires no less than 4 disparate regions of the brain, he learned to read. He still can't spell, because the way letters are organized into words doesn't always make sense to him. Reading out loud is also a challenge and frequently people think that he stutters because he has to think about his words. Put a chess board in front of him, start up a conversation about string theory, give him a complex calculus problem... well you have a very different story then.
Without dyslexia would his mind work the way it does, probably not... from our research it's just how it works. Not all brains are wired the same way, and you should thank God every day for that!
shazwellyn-- you are most welcomed, and yes we both have abilities, not disabilites, just something special about us both.
Yes computers are a great boon aren't they?
Violet Sun-- yes so many people so much support and i am so thanksful and blessed by this community. Yes Wayne has such wonderful advice and it means so much to get it from him.
Unchained Grace--- thanks so mcuh for the kind comment and yes I do believe that somewhere in my future I will find that special someone-- I get what you mean.
And yes this is what I hope people do see in my hubs. Thanks for the wonderfully kind comment.
JS-- thank you for the kind comment, it is still comething I face day to day but like everyone else here I adatped and found ways to help myself, and so many others have helped me a long this path.
Petra--- thanks so mcuh it is a lovely hub, and it is so wonderful to think that you thought of me, but you are just as special as I am.
Hi my friend. Want to know a secret? I am an undiagnosed Aspberger's - I am one of the lost generation of the undiagnosed. I can relate to what you have written - absolutely! Computers have been a real boom to me - spelling... grammar... cutting and pasting (because I get the sequence of written material wrong). You know, I studied for an hons in psychology... why? Because I couldnt get my head around people!!!! I studied health and social welfare... why? Because I wanted to know empathy!
The challenges that we both face can only do us good. I admire your writing and your head! Thank you for your ABILITY not DISABILITY! Love you mate! xxxxxx
Rebecca: Came back to read the comments, and wow, my eyes were wet; I have never lost faith in humanity, and the caliber of folks here confirms it for me. :) Wayne's advice to read the hubs from the bottom up, is great, will do this!
Rebecca, your writing skills far surpass any handicap. I must agree with dohn121. If someone approached me with something like what was said to your ex, I might just have to introduce them to a bit of the Special Forces training and experience provided through Uncle Scam which would then require a fair amount of repentance on my part, but it is what it is. God will bring someone into your life as He did me. It took a while, but I also had to be ready for what He was bringing. Know what I mean?
What I would never do is tell you what was said. All that does is hurt and discourage people from interacting with others.
On the flip? When I read your Hubs, I learn. I learn a lot. I see someone who is passionate about what they do and the eagerness to help others. This is what I see. In the end, aren't those the real qualities we all strive for?
This has come as a surprise to me Rebecca that you "had" that unfortunately disability. But in the same breath, I would like to say that I don't feel that you are plagued by this misfortune anymore. Yes, it hurts to know that you had it and fought hard to come out of it and be where you are now but the fact remains that it's over now!
I would like to mention the name of one Indian movie (that made it to the Oscars) made on this disabilty in a child. The name of the movie is "Taare Zameen Par (Stars on Earth)". I would recommend you to see this, one of my favorite Indian movies.
Hello again Rebecca,
Inspired by you I just wrote a hub "Turning a handicap into an asset". After posting it I saw the hub Mystique wrote because of you telling this story.
I hope you can see and feel all the love, support and appreciation this community has for you.
Keep on writing Rebecca dear and we will all celebrate the publishing of your book.
lori-- that is laugh out loud funny. because for me that just is the way things are most days, and with dyslexia you need a sense of humor.
Feline Prophet-- with many thanks for the encouragement, it means a lot. No I will never give up.
pmccray-- wow i didn't know about agatha christie, something to strive for all the more.
The Rope-- thanks for the kind comment, and just so you know yes you are an inspriration as well.
Rebecca,
Thanks for sharing this very personal story. I'm hoping you'll find this joke funny -- I heard it a long time ago.
Person 1: I'm Lysdexic
Person 2: You mean Dyslexic?
Person 1: Oh yeah, I always get that backwards. :-)
Lori
Don't give up, Rebecca! You're doing a great job here at HB...your hubs are very useful, and I'm amazed at how prolific you are! :)
Kudos for your hub. You are a magnificent writer and teacher, I'm constantly bookmarking your hubs and learn something from each one.
My nephew has dyslexia and it was hard for him growing up to overcome some of the obstacles, but he did. Hey your in famous company; Actor; Danny Glover, Actress; Lara Flynn Boyle, Actor/musican Keanu Reeves, Actor; Orlando Bloom, Athlete; Magic Johnson, Inventor; Thomas Edison and legendary writer; Agatha Christie.
All very successful and so are you. Blessings to you and yours.
How wonderfully written Rebecca! Your heart comes through which is what makes you such a terrific writer. I have always enjoyed reading your hubs and look forward to many more. Given what you have written, you have obviously worked hard and come a long way. Thank you so much for sharing! You are an inspiration!
Gemsong-- I am glad to read you comment I guess indeed I have, but it's been a long road.
Wayne-- I wanted to thank you in some way, you've helped me improve so much and it means a lot that you come back and read my hubs time and time again.
once more thanks for that wonderful and useful advice I will put it to good use. I never thought to go back to beginning. that's awesome!
janiek13-- I hope that I can help out in any way I can, it is fun to write hubs with all the support and help i get.
James once again I guess I am full of surprises, thanks so much
lorlie6-- thanks for the special comment you can certainly share this with your husband, all the best and I will continue to write.
Jen's Solitude-- thanks for the lovely comement, my challenges are small compared to others, but I think by encouraging people I can make the world a better place.
Hummm.... 80+ well written hubs. Looks to me like you've overcome the so called 'problem' rather well. Keep on reading and writing. Not because you have to but because you love it.
Rebecca,
What an inspiring hub. I see that you mention me by name. I just want to say that I am proud to be a fan. You have a warm spirit and a generous heart.
I have to admit, that I have pointed out a few errors in past hubs. I hope you realize it was in a spirit of helpfulness. I think your aspiration to becoming a great writer is obvious, and you are well on your way.
I have a critical eye for grammar and errors do stand out to me. I do believe, however, that the most important thing in the quest to being a great writer is the spirit of a writer. Rebecca, never let anyone tell you you lack this spirit and enthusiasm. You truly are a writer. The grammar can always be fixed, but you can't teach what you already have ... true passion for writing.
I will give a little hint here to you and anyone else who is frustrated when self editing. Try reading your hub one sentence at a time from the end of the article to the begining. When you use this technique it really helps errors stand out. Sometimes when you re-read a hub from top to bottom, your mind fills in words or errors you have made.
Once again, Rebecca, thank you for such a great hub and warm spirit.
I never would have guessed that you are dyslexic by the way you write. You do a fine job! Keep up the good work, I always read your hubs for advice on hubbing.
totally unexpected coming from you, but you seem to have your heart in the right place, you (for all your challenges) want to help others in need.
What a heartbreaking yet inspirational tale you tell, Rebecca!
Heartbreaking because your husband was so cruel, inspirational since I've often read your hubs for advice and guidance.
I am married to a man with dyslexia, who was tortured by 'teachers' who made him read out loud as he trembled, and, well, you know the rest.
Thank you for your courage here, and I look very forward to more hubs!
Rebecca E. What a success you are! Thank you for sharing your story, I truly appreciate it and I am glad you have a strong sense of your value and worth. You can give to others because you have taken the time to give to yourself. What an encouragement you are!
~Jen
MeKenzie-- your daughter sounds like me "mowlawner" was my big one whenI was little. But yes we all learnin different ways, and you'd better believe I'll let your know the second teh book comes out, and on my profile as well. All the best and thanks so mcuh for the wonderful comment.
Petra-- and your writing is wonderful i would have never thought that... but yes even here dyslexia is still a "lazy" excuse (In Canada at least) but I think we all learn differently and that is the joy of it. And you are right it is a slight drawback, but we both have seen so much success because of it.
Mystique1957-- you are so wise and what your've said resonates so wonderfully my thanks. And it is true I am the author of my story and I can change teh direction anytime, and I did. To all our dreams
Pamela99-- one day I'll find the man who loves me. Until then I am here to encourage and help others, we all have challenges, it doesn't mean we are dumb or whatever just unique and we will do better for it.
High Voltage Writer--- I'll let you in on a secret i don't publish my hubs-- save this one-- for a few days, so that I have time to check them over a few times. right now I have about three or four hubs in the draft stage.
CariJean-- what can I say to this lovely comment but thanks, and many more thanks. I am encouraged and I know I will be a published writer.
uliveulearn-- it's challenging to have it but I want to help others and give back to people to have helped me. My dream to write is my fuel so is the dream to be able to help and encourage others.
juneaukid-- thanks so much for the wonderful comment, it means a lot to me, I have read your wonderful book, and can't wait to read your book of poetry. Yes, i will I will
JannyC-- your are so welcome, I am glad to have so much support here on hubapges, follow your dreams as well you will get there.
Wow - the hubbers are wonderful Rebecca... They totally love you. I have so enjoyed reading all the responses.. I agree and concede with their admiration for you. You are a great writer and I enjoy reading your hubs as well. I know you will reach your dream.
My (now grown) daughter was also diagnosed with dyslexia. I went to Chicago for testing and diagnosis. Guess what the Professor who diagnosed her told me. People who have dyslexia actually have a higher intellegence than most people. So how do you like that 'former husband!'
I went for special training from this professor and his wife who was also a specialist in the area of dyslexia. I learned how to best teach my daughter according to the way she thinks... I homeschooled her for a year. My dear daughter, upon learning I would teach her from home, said to me. Mom, you must love me alot to do this for me... my heart melted..
My daughter is married to a man with a masters degree. One day David said to her ... Renee, you should have the degree in counseling ... you are so very wise.
She is very gifted and talented and a JOY! Her friends and family all love her. She has learned to laugh at herself when she says funny things... One day she was trying to tell me to pull into that parking spot. It came out as "mom ... do you see that sparking pot?" We all laughed and enjoyed the moment... we remember all her little unique sayings and she likes that we do. She has learned to integrate and enjoy her funny little communication style.
Here's to you Rebecca - a wonderful women - I also want to know when you publish your first book.
trose-- one day I am certain to find him... one day of course. Until then I will do what i do and keep on writing to help others to encourage them in their journey to their dreams.
Tammy-- as always it's a pleasure to read your comment, more so since you've given a bit of yourself in this one. It's not easy having a challenege but I can proudly say i read "green eggs and ham" without much trouble (depending on the evening) to my children. As always the pleasure is mine.
Karen-- I try not to as well, but it is something that people need to hear, still I love reading your hubs and you are a wonderful part of this community as well. My many thanks for your kind comments.
Its Angel-- you keep plugging on as well, I never would have imagined this hub would make people so open, thanks for your wonderful comment, and I'm so happy to hear your daughter did so well. Anytime. Anytime.
Ken-- yes it was hard, but at the same time a way I believe I can help other on their path to their dreams, there are always challenges, but they can be overcome.
alekhouse-- don't worry it's not trying to compensate, I've learned a lot through it. In fact you are right it's another way to learn. In all fairness I wanted to encourage people that they too can make a difference no matter what "lable' they might have.
Lily Rose--- I trust you with my work, in fact you have never been to harsh with me, you've always been helpful and kind in your efforts to help me improve my hubs. you are most welcome!
kims3003-- thanks for the comment, I am so overwelmed, I never ever expected to come on to hubpages anf find this many comments ever... thanks for teh support.
Colin--- read it, and many many thanks for the hub you published for me, wow, I am honoured.
Peter-- thanks for the comment, in fact it was a bit of courage since I didn't know how much support I would get (totally amazed me I admit) thanks so mcuh for the comment.
hello hello-- it is harder for you I believe than me, and don't worry I can't cook or behave ( at least according to certain people... who shall not be named) but I think my challenges are minimal compared to yours, all teh more power to you. Thanks for stopping by and making your comment, it means a lot to me.
Hypnodude-- as always thanks for your encouragement and honesty, in fact had I not known that English was your second language I'd have never guessed. I suspect we all have challenges in our lives. Thanks so mcuh for the kind comment, it has made my day.
Thank you so much Rebecca for writing this very personal story. I appreciate it even more because it rings a personal bell with me.
As I grew up I was a very good student, but often called lazy and superficial; at that time dyslexia was not diagnose or at least not many people knew about it in Romania.
I would often write “b” instead of “d” or vice versa, I would do the same with “p” and “t”; I was not aware of the problem and will wonder why is my teacher correcting my homework with red and bold pen (to me everything looked perfect…)
When it came to numbers, I will hear 7 but write down 5 and it still happens to this day; as for words like “ball game” and “game ball” I don’t know which is which.
Does that make me stupid? Not at all, or at least I do not feel that way.
Somebody once told me that part of my ability to write with ease comes from a less than perfect brain connection and that could be true. I believe that to be also true for you, dear Rebecca so let’s celebrate rather that feel “handicapped”.
Turning a “disability” into an asset is what both of us are doing by writing and being creative. I have no doubt that your talent and determination will overcame this slight drawback.
Wishing you the very best, affectionately, Petra
Sweet Becca...
Courage doesn`t come natural to everyone, regardless of circumstances. The greatest step a human being can give is to admit having a problem, for it will bring thousands of loving souls like these many who have written above my comment, and tell you: "YES, YOU CAN". You know why? Because you give yourself wholeheartedly to the community, and there is nothing that can match selfless, human love! You can`t imagine how much I have learned from your hubs. To me you are a very caring human being, and I am proud of being among your followers, and honored to be followed by you!
Remember,dear Becca: No matter what others say, you are the author of your Life`s story, so whatever you do not like, just change the script and keep on working as you have!
May God Bless you,
Warm regards,
Al
Rebecca, Follow that dream! You are a good writer and I never would have guessed you had any limitations. I have always read that dyslexia and intelligence are two separate things. I'm glad you're rid of the Ex. I would not consider him an honorable man. Your openness is refreshing and I believe you will be successful. Many of us have different types of health problems and you learn to adapt and write when you're able. Thanks for a good hub.
Thank you so much for that wonderfully honest hub!I also have dyslexia and it is the reason I do not publish my hubs faster than I do..for I have trouble recognizing my mistakes even when I read over a hub many times I will miss type errors! I have always been amazed how fast you write a hub and always looked up to you for inspiration! Now that I know that we have this in common, I respect you even more than I did before!
This is a very encouraging and inspring hub. Thanks so much for posting it! I wish you all the best in realizing your dream to become a published writer.
Thank you for sharing this personal insight of yourself. I am surprised to learn that you have dyslexia which obviously does not mean stupid. You should be proud of yourself. You are an extremely intelligent and accomplished woman that many look up to. Struggling with this challenge has given you a strength to reach higher than most people do and as you meet each goal set your confidence grows providing the fuel to go on. You have amazing talent, passion, drive and vision. You will reach your dreams and in your journey will help someone else reach theirs. I am inspired by you.
You are a beautiful person for sharing this. That takes tremendous courage. Keep on doing what you do best--write and offer suggestions to fellow hubbers.
Bravo to you. You have overcome so much already and should be proud. Keep looking forward and leave that cruel past behind. Writers unite!
AMAZING hub! You are designed exactly the way you are supposed to be....we all are....and we ALL have flaws, issues and problems. You are succeeding in so many ways and you are a terrific role model. There is so much for you to be proud of! :) You deserve a good man in your life that loves you for exactly who you are. You are really making a difference in this crazy world with your writing.....thank you.
It's a privilege to be acquainted with you!
Wow, Rebecca that was really brave to share that. My Mother and two Sisters have dyslexia. They are exactly as you described. I was the one who was lucky and missed that gene. My Sisters struggle big time. They also have ADD but not one knew about that until recently one of my Sister's kids was diagnosed with it and so was my sister. Luckily no one ever called them stupid (just sibling rivalry stuff you know growing up in a house with three girls all those hormones, wow, how did we survive).
Both of my sisters are very intelligent, but cannot read especially out loud not even a children's book. Both were very hyperactive as children too. Probably ADD as one of my Sisters was diagnosed recently as was one of her kids.
Enough about my stuff I just wanted you to know that I have people in my life that have the same problem as you. I am really impressed that you are holding on to your dream. You will publish a book. I have gotten so much help from you and I can't wait to read what you have in store for us next.
I am going to share this with my Mom okay...Thanks again for sharing this I wonder if this is why I feel sort of a bond with you. Sounds weird but hey since we're sharing....Tammy
Thank you for overcoming your dyslexia in order to provide us with all your fantastic hubs, and your great writing blog. Like many people with learning difficulties you are obviously very intelligent and talented. There are many things I could say about your ex-husband but as I tell my kids, if you haven't got anything nice to say... shut up!
This was such a brave post. Thank you for sharing. I have a slight problem with it, when reading your posts you will something see hte or something similar words I don't catch when proofing it is exasperating to me, I know how it feels to you.
I took my daughter out of school and home schooled her because they wanted to label her learning disabled and put her in a special class. She is not "disabled" she justs learns differently. She graduated on the honor tole from High school at the end. People are so quick to put a label on you, where no labels are necessary. You are certainly one of the smartest people I read.
I love your writing, Rebecca, and you have helped me immensity when I have sent you emails asking questions and the like.
Keep pluggin on...
Wow. Thanks for opening up a vein & sharing from your heart. Very moving & evocative.
As hard as it may have been for you to write, it is an encouraging story because of your determination to triumph & press on. May you be blessed with friends & companions who will always be there as encouragers.
I truly understand where you're coming from. First of all, I am a learning disability consultant. I worked in this capacity for the Chicago Public School system for years. Secondly, I also have a learning disability. In fact, most people do. These are only labels and I actually don't like using labels. However; it makes it easier to talk about.
A learning disability has nothing to do with your intelligence. It certainly does not mean that you're dunb, if you have one. It refers to the way you take in, assimilate, and regurgitate information. I could go on, in more depth, but this is basically all you need to know, unless you are trying to compensate for having a learning disability.
I have actually turned mine to pretty good use, which is possible for most people. Let me say, Rebecca, based on reading your hubs, that you appear to be extremely intelligent and high functioning. I would suggest that probably worrying about having a learning disability is more detrimental to your functioning than actually having one. Keep doing what your doing...cause you're doing great!
Rebecca,
I have a - perhaps too harsh - intolerance for bad grammar and punctuation. But let me say this: I would NEVER know by reading your articles that you are dyslexic; they are very well written and enjoyable to read! I'm sorry that this issue ever made you feel "stupid." Anyone with any brains should know what Dyslexia is and that it has nothing to do with one's intelligence. I'm glad to hear (sorry) that you're separated from your asshole husband - sounds like he put you through some emotional abuse and no one deserves that! Keep you head up high and know that you are a talented writer with many, many followers!
A very genuine and well done hub.
I would like to mention how wonderful I think it is and how moved I was by knowing what loving, caring and thoughtful people are out there in this world when reading all of the comments you received. Its people like this who remind us there are some truly remarkable, kind, and genuine individuals in this world who I feel honored and blessed to have even come across - especially when one is at a point of wondering if there really are any people like this left in the world.
Rebecca I feel that this hub you have written needs a hub from me in responce. I hope you all will read it and maybe understand what Rebecca has just said to me.
Well done
I will publish the hub now under the title "Can I Do It" in a few moments
Thank you for sharing...you certainly don't lack courage. I have taken an instant dislike to your former husband. I have known a lot of dyslexics and never known one who was not successful. You write extremely well...brilliantly in fact. May the blue bird of happiness perch on your pump handle and all your dreams are realised.
Hello, Rebecca, and I am lost for words. I would never have guessed. I had the biggest shock when you mention me. Thank you but I just admired your hubs which were good. It must be a struggle and for that you have my whole admiration. Forget what your husband said because my ex wanted to put me into a Mental Home to get hold of the house. That was all he wanted to get me out of the house. We had a very young son at that time and I was worried sick with concern about him. That was only one thing he said to me. The other were I was an alcoholic, can't behave, can't cook, can't keep the house clean and can't manage the money. Then I heard a gossip that I had an abortion. I think I didn't forget anything on my list. When he went he told the neighbours to keep an eye on me and our son because I am mental. So there you are.
Being a foreigner in England, I also got the treatment of people not talking to me because, at first I didn't have the full knowledge of English, and then because I had and still have an accent and on top of all a German accept. It did hurt at first but then I look at it and thought at least I speak two language and for being German; there is nothing I can do about it. I regret deeply what happened but I was born during the war and still get crucified.
I think people who have education and I mean education which is not in the books but you get told from home or someone and you take or not, will not look down on anybody whether they have disabilities or not. There are not many but there are some and they are worth knowing and the rest is not.
Rebecca, again, I would have never guessed and you are fantastic. So be proud of yourself and you can be and that what matters and counts.
I don't know, maybe it's because English is my second language, or because I'm not so much intelligent, but I'd never thought about you having dyslexia. And I find your hubs extremely well done. Being a writer relates mainly with what someone has to say, the grammar or similar comes later, if the message is nothing exceptional even if well written I'd put aside the book. Anyhow it seems to me that you have quite overcome this kind of disadvantage and write pretty well, and interesting stuff, and you have always a kind word.
I have only to say that knowing that I appreciate even more what you do. And having had more difficulties than the common people at the end I think it has increased the quality of your writings, like a good result from a bad thing. Well you'll be able to guess what I'm trying to say.
And last your ex husband was a m***n. Or i***t. :) Good people always appreciate those who have to struggle more. And thanks for mentioning me again. :):)
cameciob-- thanks so much for the compliment, it means a lot coming from you. it is a challenge and something that I work with everyday, but I believe I will succeed.
Rebecca, I think you are much stronger then a 'normal' person, and more inteligent because you have to overcome your condition, and succed in your dreams. For sure you have the qualities for to succed.
Violet Sun-- I will certainly tell you all about it. I do write a lot, my blogs, and hubs and ezinearitcles, and am working on a book about German Soliders during the Second World War on the Eastern Front. I do hoep it will work otu well.
I hope to write in a magazine one day of course.
Rebecca: You write professionally, I thought you were a magazine writer or the like, I am serious! I love to read your hubs, because of the way you write. I think I have become a better writer by being in Hubpages, but I find that I am not motivated enough to come up with more hubs- as I always have a hundred things to do, so I scatter myself, this is my weakness, I think.
I have a hearing disability, and, there have been so many times when I simply looked stupid by responding with an answer to something I thought I heard.
Thanks for sharing of yourself, and when you publish the book, do let us know! Tom Cruise, Cher have dyslexia and they are brillant actors, so you are in good company!
P.S. Sigh, your husband was not very understanding, its kind of an emotional abuse, one I experienced with the ex.
dohn121-- thanks so much for the link. I shall look at it as soon as I am done.
PS-- one of the many reasons we aren't together anymore. he's not the defending type.
YOU WILL SUCCEED Rebecca! There is no doubt in my mind that you you won't. You write, therefore, you are a writer and that is that. You're write about this being a personal piece--I don't recall another occasion in which you were so open about yourself. BTW, you HAVE BEEN FULFILLING your goal/hope to help and encourage others as I am one of them!
If you don't mind, I want to leave a link here for one of my hubs. It just might be what you need to hear, Rebecca:
http://hubpages.com/hub/stay-the-course-follow-you
P.S. It's a good thing that you and you're husband separated. If someone came up to me and asked me if my wife or girlfriend was stupid, I'd punch the person in the teeth. How did your husband not defend you?
We all love you, Rebecca! Don't ever give up!
Dohn
Rebecca E. Hub Author 2 years ago
My webs-- I never noticed your spelling, in fact you;ve been such a wonderful help to me and I have no doubt that you will suppoert tothers and succeed, let the blind lead the blind my webs!
cool, I shall try that chrome spell corrector.