Dating can be an overwhelming experience, as you put yourself out there, trying to find that one person you just click with, that accepts you for who you are. However, Katherine Magnoli has learned that self acceptance is an important aspect when it comes to finding the right person.
“You’re really pretty for a girl in a wheelchair.” Katherine says that this is just one example of the ‘lines’ she would hear from guys. Men might think they are being nice by saying such words to Katherine, but she admits that hearing these words from potential suitors left Katherine feeling ‘absolutely devastated’. Katherine continues by saying that she would continue to see these men because they seemed to look past her appearance.
“I would justify it by telling myself that this person was the one because, in spite of what was said, he was somehow more virtuous because he was looking past my flawed body.”
Katherine says that this perspective on dating turned into a cycle continuing into her late teens and twenties. She admits that she would stay in a relationship with someone even if she did not have anything in common with him. Katherine felt like whoever she was in a relationship with would be the only one to accept her.
“I now see that the only way to find true happiness is for me to look past my own imperfections.” Now, in her mid thirties, Katherine is taking time to find and truly accept herself. She loves to write and surf. Katherine has found a passion for being an advocate for others.
“I’m happy to report that, after all this, the girl who would jump at the chance to date someone who saw past her wheelchair and not-so-perfect body is now calling the shots and picking and choosing the right people to have in her life.”
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