John Robinson was born without fully formed limbs. He stands 3' 9" tall. But he lives a life as normal as the next Albany resident. He works at a public television station, has a wife and three children. He helps with homework, drives the kids to practice, the usual.

The most remarkable thing about Robinson is his attitude. When a co-worker came to him a few years ago wanting to make a documentary about his life, Robinson was wary. Robinson did not want to make a gimmick of his challenges. In fact, he had spent a lifetime building a life and career that were not centered around his disabilities.

Ultimately, Robinson relented when he realized, after speaking at numerous churches and events, that he had a message that works for anyone who feels they have an obstacle to overcome.

Jonah Zimiles, owner of Words Bookstore, where Robinson is reading and signing books today at 2 p.m., first saw the author read in Syracuse when he went to visit his daughter at school there (Robinson's book Get Off Your Knees is published by Syracuse University Press). 

Said Zimiles, "The whole room was just jammed and incredibly captivated." Zimiles felt Robinson had a "strong message, particularly for Maplewood and our book store."

"John feels strongly on two points: one, he's determined to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles." This resonates for Zimiles and Words, with the store's emphasis on helping people struggling with autism. "Two, we were taken by his discussion of the importance of first impressions and how to overcome them when something about you doesn't meet expectations."

"He really talks about how to get past that." Plus, "John's good at explaining why getting angry and discouraged isn't useful."

Not that the author hasn't struggled with frustrations and anger. His teenage years were particularly difficult. "Yes, that was the hardest. Dating was difficult early on and in college. But my struggle was internal. I didn't have confidence." 

"For a long time I didn't want to look at myself."

Ultimately, the author decided his challenges "were purposeful. It's the only life I've got."

Clips on Youtube of Robinson speaking demonstrate that his message has an impact. One listener who approaches him after a speech tells Robinson that though he has had a tough week, Robinson has been an inspiration.