I have a combination of Dyspraxia, CAPD, Dysnomia, and Aphantasia. Each
one affects a different part of how I process the world. Together they
create a very specific way of thinking.
Meaning comes first
My mind works in whole ideas, not in
sentences. I don’t naturally build meaning step by step through words. Instead,
the meaning is already there and I have to translate it into language.
Why speaking is harder then writing
When I speak, I have to do several things at once: I process what I hear, organise my thoughts, find the right words and say them in order. All at the same time. Sometimes the words don’t come. Not because I don’t know them but because they don’t arrive when I need them. So, I pause and search.
Writing is different.The idea unfolds naturally, almost like it already exists, and I’m just putting
it into words.
How I learn
Traditional learning often relies on repetition and
step-by-step instruction. That doesn’t work well for me.
What does work is: understanding the concept, connecting
it to something I already know and rebuilding it in my own way. To do that I
use metaphors, analogies, and patterns “this is like…” That’s how I create conceptual
hooks.
Most people start with words and build meaning through sentences I start with meaning and move toward words. That’s a different direction.
Why this matters
From the outside, this way of thinking can look
like difficulty: pauses in speech, slower responses, missing words
But underneath there is often a rich understanding and a strong sense of meaning. Understanding this has changed how I see myself. This isn’t just my story!
Dear Marja, thank you so much for sharing this! I think being slower in speech is a good thing! Some people (including myself, but only when I am angry), speak too quickly...and later regret their words! Thinking before we speak is good for everyone!
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate you sharing your story, dear Marja, because I think it will help other people to understand, and perhaps even recognize themselves.
The poem is beautiful!
aww Thank you dear Linda
DeleteThat is a wonderful poem. Your explaining of the way your brain function is very helpful and it true- its not just your story. I write because that is when I do not have to grasp for words and there are no time pressure either. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks Suman Happy it makes sense. It’s a strange relief when someone says, Yes, I see what you mean.
ReplyDeleteWell, at least your brain works! I sometimes wonder about mine!
ReplyDelete