Inspiration Magazine Interview, Creative Essay Example

After meeting Sharon Naitore, I immediately knew she was – and would continue to be – an inspiration to many, disabled or not. The word impossible not written into her personal vocabulary, Sharon was born without fore limbs, causing her extreme hardship. This is not, however, the only thing that makes Ms Naitore unique–born with an artistic eye and a passion to match, she has been able to consistently overcome her disabilities and share her art with the world.

At the young age of 17 years old, Sharon has been able to adapt her personal disabilities to her craft. From the moment the shining star and bubbly personality comes out, it is very easy to see where her passion comes from. She approaches her disability in a fashion much beyond her years, and with a level of maturity many disabled adults cannot attain.

When asked the simple question of just how she is able to do what she does from a psychological perspective, she bravely responded, “Never say never. I just look at every obstacle as a challenge to overcome.” This quote alone does a lot to describe the outlook of this miraculous young woman. Bearing in mind Sharon Naitore is not only a successful artist but writer as well; she expanded upon this thought during the interview.

“I have to be able to make other parts of my body to more useful to me. My disability has encouraged me to learn writing with my mouth; I have also been fortunate enough to exercise some of my artistic skills such as drawing portraits. I can comfortably draw with my mouth.”

Sharon was intent on emphasizing the positive influence her parents have always had on her. She claims her father constantly emphasized that disability did not necessarily mean inability – and cites that both parents have always constantly pushed her to pursue whichever goal she chose to work towards. What the rest of us see as inspiration, she attributes to a “fighting spirit” that her parents instilled in her from a young age. Now, in fact, she views her own situation as a “blessing in disguise” – powerful words from such a courageous and humble young lady.

Again just 17, she has already been approached by studio owners about showcasing her talents. This is a feat for any artist – much less an artist in her in particular circumstance. With aspirations of one day showcasing her art internationally, Sharon is certainly ahead of pace – she has not just been approached by studio owners, but she has done so with little or no promotion. It seems her plans to visit galleries around the world, and see her own art hanging in them, are almost certain to become a reality.

Indeed Sharon Naitore is a unique individual, talented and humble, and yet still young – yet wise beyond her years. There is no doubt that it takes a very special person to not only produce the art she does regardless of her hardships, but to also maintain the upbeat and uplifting personality she exhumes. She truly is an inspiration for everyone, and especially for others living with disabilities.

When asked if she had any advice for others living with disabilities, she responded simply and powerfully: “I tell them to not look at what they can’t do, but rather focus on what they can be – and to really go for it. If you are passionate something, don’t hold back – if patience and persistence will get you any wherever you want to be.”