Delatorro L. McNeal's distinguished military career has taken him from Vietnam to the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Through the course of his service, he has learned about inner strength.
Who/what contributed to your inner strength?
I find inner strength in knowing there is a higher supreme being. With a strong religious background, I believe in all situations there is good and that our inner strength in conjunction with faith will help us to see this good. I also find strength in the love and support of my family, my friends, my community, God and my church.
You will be surprised to know the amount of inner strength we all have if we only take the time to pause and lean on the inner strength in times of need.
When in your life was your inner strength particularly tested and how did you deal with the incident?
The first time, I would have to say, was when I found out I would be going to Vietnam because it was completely unexpected. The second time was when I realized I was injured while in Vietnam. At first, I thought my active life was over and that I would be some type of vegetable, but after tapping into that inner strength, I realized that I could and would lead a productive normal life with a job, a wife and children.
What suggestions do you have to help people realize their capabilities?
One suggestion I have is that people need to focus on their abilities and listen to the words of encouragement they receive from others. Everyone has unique talents and it’s just a matter of tapping in and identifying what those talents are. It’s important to set goals and go after them.
My paralysis has allowed me to expand my wings and broaden my horizon as an individual. I often times use the phrase, “I see this wheelchair as a means of commuting from point A to point B when an able-bodied person uses their legs.” I take my inabilities to help me focus on greater capabilities.
Why is it important to focus on inner strength?
It’s important to focus on anything that you do; otherwise, you are just responding to life. By focusing on that inner strength it will help you to make the right decisions.
What are your next goals and what positive thoughts or activities keep you striving toward your goals?
I take everyday one day at a time. I believe in life there are seasons and my season right now is to serve as the executive director of PVA in Washington, DC. I know there will be another season for me to enter into and with that inner strength, I will embrace the changes when the time comes.
