Letter from Aaron G. – a guestbook signee who accepted Keepers invitation to write for our website

Dear Keepers,

I’m honored to be presented with this opportunity. Having known multiples for almost 17 years, I’ve learned many things and do not consider multiplicity a disorder. Multiples are simply a collection of unique individuals who share the same body. Labels like ‘mpd/did’ do a great disservice to multiples for two reasons; They make multiples feel ashamed for being multiple and this may cause some to develop a negative self image that interferes with personal happiness. In addition, those unfamiliar with multiplicity have only the worst and most unstable stereotypes to relate to. This can make it very difficult for multiples to freely express themselves to friends and loved ones.

By seeing multiples as intelligent and creative people, this more correct perspective simply expresses a greater truth. As multiples learn to see themselves in a more positive light, they may allow themselves a greater sense of happiness to fulfill their great potential. I’ve learned that multiples have a far greater capacity to understand life from various points of view. Most ’singlets’ only have access to their singular view point, multiples on the other hand have the combined perspectives and experiences of everyone in their system, each offering their own unique point of view.

We ’singlets’ can learn much from these individuals. By seeing multiples in a more positive and correct light, we actually allow ourselves to learn more. This open-mindedness also allows multiples more freedom to express themselves. It’s inspirational to see multiples who’ve survived severe abuse overcome these experiences. While most of us could never imagine enduring such horrific abuse, seeing our loved ones overcome these challenges is truly amazing. Such individuals are proof of the incredible power of the human spirit.

My goal is that all multiples and their loved ones will learn to see their multiplicity as a collection of great gifts, each bringing unlimited potential to the world around them. I’m sure multiples and those who love them will understand. With all of this great potential available, how could this possibly be considered a disorder? Friends of multiples have been given a very special gift, it would be my wish that multiples and their loved ones would have the opportunity to share this gift with the rest of us. Aaron G. 3/05/2006