IF THERE'S one thing which can define individuals it's how they face adversity.
Whangarei's Moses Parangi is someone who can say they have fronted up to adversity without fear.
There are few people out there who have been through the same experiences Moses has been through but, like he says,there are others worse off than him.
Moses likens someone like myself - a quadruple amputee from birth - as one of those worse off than him, when really there isn't even a comparison.
What Moses and others who have suffered spinal cord injuries have been through truly is astonishing.
One day they have gone from being able-bodied - running around, picking things up with one hand - to being dependent on others at times.
Of course, throughout the rehabilitation process those who have had an injury become stronger and re-gain some of their function, reducing the need for outside help before hopefully being completely independent one day.
Those who have gone through the grind of rehab, I cannot help but salute them. I have only ever known myself the way I am, the transition and acceptance is a-whole-other element to take into account.
Having played wheelchair rugby, and travelled, with people worse off than Moses, you really do get a feel for what life is like in a chair. And, it's not easy.
But, like Moses said, sport is like a support network for those with similar injuries and function. The number of times I have watched a tetraplegic pick something up off the ground and I've thought 'wow, what a good idea' are uncountable.
The way a group of similar functioning people can push each other to be better and pull finger to do more with themselves is inspiring.
It is people like Moses Parangi who I think of when I'm having an average day, being frustrated with all sorts disability-related issues. I just hope when I'm Moses' age I have the same happy go lucky attitude he does.
