I was extremely presumptuous in my understanding of Tourette syndrome (TS).
When the podcast conversation turned toward the perceptions that are associated with this disorder, it felt like Sam Hanson was speaking directly to me. It got uncomfortable for me because I’ve previously been the jokester at the expense of those with this malady. I’ve cracked jokes about this very topic in the past; consequently, the more we spoke the closer the conversation felt.
I had noticed Sam in the gym, and I’d heard his tics, long before I had launched a podcast. He suffers from a mild form of TS and uses the gym to mitigate the unwanted sounds and repetitive movements associated with his disorder. Physical fitness routines help our mental health just as much as our physical well-being. That’s why we both frequent the gym. A good habit can bring you toward good people—I’ve experienced it, and I’m sure you can say the same.
Our opportunity to chat was a direct result of Sam’s strength, whereby he took the opportunity to reach out and share some of his story with me. With his narrative came a better understanding of his daily life, and the obstacles he maneuvers on his journey. I learned a little about what it’s like to live with this disorder, and I heard some of Sam’s own difficult life lessons.
Sam’s a great man. He has been nothing but kind, compassionate, and informative in sharing his truths about Tourette syndrome. Initially, I felt awful because I was in the wrong. I was grossly erroneous to have made jokes at another’s expense. I know things outside of someone’s control are the cruelest things to sneer at, and at that moment I was receiving a hard lesson. It stung at the moment and still leaves a residual bad taste in my mouth.
I hated feeling that way. But, at that moment, it was a very profound message for me. The podcast continues to teach me things about myself that I would never have had the courage to explore on my own—I hope that you can say the same. Use this as your opportunity to explore some of the areas in life that you question, so that you, too, may find a deeper understanding and….
Enjoy the ride!
