There’s a quote I heard not long ago that has settled deep into my heart:
“Butterflies can’t see their wings. They can’t see how truly beautiful they are, but everyone else can.”
It got me thinking… how often do we, as people, go through life not recognising our own beauty, strength, or worth—simply because we can’t see it from the outside the way others can?
I know that feeling well. Living with SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) has meant navigating life differently than most. My days are filled with challenges many never have to consider—from medical decisions to navigating spaces not built for someone in a wheelchair. Sometimes I’ve looked in the mirror and struggled to see what others see in me. At times, I’ve felt “different” in ways that weren’t easy to embrace.
After my recent hospital stay and surgeries, I went through a whirlwind of emotions. Even though I went in with a plan, the reality of adjusting to a suprapubic catheter and the changes it brought to my body left me feeling raw and vulnerable. I felt like my reflection had shifted… and I wasn’t sure I liked what I saw.
But over time—and with the love and support of those around me—I started to realise something important. Even on the days when I didn’t feel brave or beautiful or strong, others could still see it. They reminded me. They reflected it back to me. And slowly, I began to see it again for myself.
Like the butterfly, we may not always see our wings. But that doesn’t mean they’re not there. Your value isn’t always something you’ll feel in the moment—but it’s in your smile, your perseverance, your kindness, your story. It’s in every “I got through today” moment. And it’s always visible to someone else.
Life will be hard sometimes. You are allowed to have bad days. I’ve had plenty. Days where I’ve felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or even heartbroken. But what I’ve learned is this: it’s just as important to feel those days as it is to remember they’re not where the story ends. There are brighter days ahead.
Even in the dark, gratitude can be a soft light. Whether it’s being thankful for family, the independence my wheelchair gives me, the community that surrounds me, or even just the chance to keep sharing my story—I choose to focus on what lifts me.
So if you’re reading this today and you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or unseen… I want you to know: you are not alone. You might not see your wings right now. But I promise you—they’re there. And they’re beautiful.
Keep showing up. Keep moving forward. Keep believing in the light that’s coming. Because you are more powerful, more beautiful, and more inspiring than you know.
