Yesterday I went to the Stuttering Support Group that I found through the National Stutters Association website. I loved it! I met some really cool people and it felt great to be open and honest about my stuttering. I believe that was the first time I felt completely comfortable talking with a group of people and not having to hope I don't stutter or feel embarassed if I do. I was relaxed. There was such a variey of people with different backgrounds including two psychologists, an internationals student, a musician. And everyone was so warm and accepting.
One thing that stood out for me was the way they talked about their stuttering. It was like they saw it as an addition to themselves, not something negative that they should hide. I have always thought of my stuttering as a problem I should be ashamed of and cover up. But they suggested that I should not look at it as a problem, but as a challenge, and not even a bad one at that!
One member who is searching for a job said he uses his stuttering as an advantage over other applicants since it makes him stand out and shows that he is adaptable. He says people always remember who he is and stuttering has never disqualified him from anything. Interesting, huh?
This group of people taught me a lot in so little time. There is a meeting every month and I will definitely be in attendance. There is also a national conference coming up next month in Fort Worth and I am super excited about going and learning even more about this unique challenge and meeting some cool fellow stutterers :)
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