Read the poem given below and answer the following question.
She never got to dance
Or go to her own prom.
She never got the chance
To forget where she came from.
She never got to kiss,
A man she idolized.
She never felt love's bliss,
'Cause she was paralyzed.
She never got to talk
About love with a smile.
She never got to walk
Down a church's aisle.
She never got to say
Those precious words, "I Do."
But she was far and away
The strongest girl I ever knew.
She couldn't brush her hair
Or put make up on her face.
She couldn't hold you dear
Or give you a warm embrace.
She couldn't clasp her hands
As if in the form of prayer.
She couldn't understand
Why she was in a wheelchair.
She never showed her fears
Or let you hear her cries.
She never showed the tears
That fell down from her eyes.
She never looked for pity
Or sympathy from you.
That's why she'll always be
The strongest girl I ever knew.
What is the core message conveyed through the poem?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is option 2 - Disability is power
The poem highlights the struggles and limitations faced by a girl who was paralyzed, yet it focuses on her strength, resilience, and ability to endure without seeking pity. The repeated phrase "the strongest girl I ever knew" emphasizes that, despite her disability, she exhibited immense strength.
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"Disability has no voice" – Incorrect, because the poem gives a voice to the girl's experiences and struggles.
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"Disability is power" – Correct, as the poem portrays the girl’s strength despite her limitations.
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"Disability is acceptable" – While the poem portrays acceptance, its main focus is on strength, not mere acceptance.
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"Disability needs solace" – Incorrect, as the girl did not seek pity or sympathy.