I am Aunt Ninja

Hi, I am Aunt Ninja. In this episode, I would like to share a motivational story about myself. Many ask, why Aunt Ninja? Well, it’s because there is a Ninja Hero who has always been a great support behind me, inspiring me to move forward in life, face challenges head-on, and never back down. Hence, I embraced this nickname with pride. As a survivor of auditory trauma and a long-haul navigator through the challenges of Asperger’s Syndrome, I write my story to share my journey of resilience, growth, and unwavering spirit.

From a young age, I faced what seemed like insurmountable hurdles. The world around me often felt overwhelming—sounds that others barely noticed could send me into a whirlwind of anxiety. Conversations to me were a maze that I struggled to navigate. However, in all this turmoil, I discovered my true self. I came to understand what I wanted to be and learned how to excel, aiming to create a bright future for myself. Finally, with the funding that were collected, I made the decision to undergo cochlear implant (CI) surgery. Becoming a CI user was a pivotal moment in my life. The surgery allowed me to experience sound in a completely new way, opening doors to places I had once avoided. Although the adjustment period was challenging and sometimes frustrating, I eventually found the beauty in the connections that sound could bring. With time, I adapted to my new auditory world. I learned to appreciate the nuances of everyday sounds and the joy of engaging in conversations that once seemed impossible. The cochlear implant didn’t just enhance my hearing; it enriched my life, helping me forge deeper relationships and explore opportunities that were previously out of reach. This journey taught me resilience, patience, and the incredible potential of human adaptation.

As the days went by, I started pouring my heart into understanding myself. I found solace in books, art, and the wonders of nature. Each sunset became a reminder that beauty could emerge from darkness. The walls of my quiet home turned into canvases, where I painted vibrant scenes that reflected my dreams and challenges. In my art, I expressed the words I sometimes struggled to say. Despite my trials, I never let my differences define me.

When I was ten years old, I learned about the Ninja from a Japanese movie. The Ninja always showed how to harness his strengths, face his fears, and listen to the voices that mattered—then secretly help those in need. This resonated deeply with me. I admired the Ninja’s grace, strength, and ability to navigate life’s challenges with agility and wisdom. Inspired by these qualities, I decided to embody the spirit of the Ninja in my own life. I aimed to harness my strengths, face my fears, and be a quiet, supportive force for those around me, just as the Ninja did. This inspiration helped me move through life with purpose and resilience, embracing my identity and using my unique abilities to make a positive impact on others.

Well, I am a woman, so I couldn’t be a Ninja Hero. Instead, Ninja Hero was somebody who is my life benefactor. I embraced the identity of Aunt Ninja, becoming a beloved figure known not only for my skills but also for my unwavering support. I turned my focus to becoming a special needs educator. In my classes, I often shared my story, encouraging students with disabilities to embrace their unique attributes. They learned that everyone has something that makes them different, and those differences are what truly make us special.

As months turned into years, my journey continued. I experienced my share of struggles and triumphs, moments of loneliness intertwined with experiences of joy. Each challenge I faced made me stronger, and I came to see my journey as a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of struggle and resilience.

One morning, as I stood in front of the mirror, I realized that I had transformed. The years of navigating life had shaped me into a figure of strength—an Aunt Ninja who could conquer not only my own fears but also inspire others to do the same. I understood that my identity was not defined by my struggles but by my courage to rise above them. And so, I continued to thrive, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration in my community. I encouraged everyone to embrace their inner strength and to never shy away from who they are. I taught all who crossed my path that life, with its challenges and victories, is a journey worth taking—one that can be faced with the heart of a warrior and the spirit of a ninja.