Play script, "The Mirror Within" by Georgina Gimenez. (I have aphasia).

What if all you wanted was to simply exist without the suffocating weight of society's expectations? Malik, our remarkable guest, invites us into his world to explore this very question. After experiencing a life-altering stroke five years ago, he now lives with aphasia, a condition affecting his communication but not his profound introspection. Through Malik's raw narrative, we challenge conventional ideas of success and confidence, engaging in a heartfelt exploration of authenticity. Malik courageously questions the labels we've come to accept and shares his journey of embracing flaws and stripping away societal layers to find his true self.

Join us as Malik's story pushes us to confront our own fears and doubts in the pursuit of genuine existence. His candid reflections on identity and self-acceptance offer a powerful reminder of the importance of living authentically. This episode is more than just a conversation; it's an invitation to reflect on what truly matters and to embrace who we are, unapologetically. Let Malik's journey inspire you to peel back the layers and face your own truths.

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:01

My name is Malik. I had a stroke five years ago. Result aphas the play the mirror within. Author. General Genesie Action. I've I've worn so many labels like badges or scars, but each one it pulls me further from the person I think I be. What do I want to be? The world tell me to be successful, To be confident. But what if? What if I just want to be, To exist, without all this expectation? I want to strip away all my layers, the judgment, the doubt, the fear, fear to stand here just as I truly am pretty raw, real and unapologetic. But it's terrifying, isn't it, To face yourself with all your flaws, your weakness, your truth, and to accept that I am me. No more, no less. Thank you so much. Bye.