Maybe It’s About Being Real

I’m the kind of person who is always searching for some big cosmic reason for things.

I search for answers. Signs. I think way too much. I wonder why and how. I wonder how it all ends.

As I get older, I’m learning that maybe it isn’t so much about understanding why.

Maybe it’s about becoming the best version of yourself so you can become the best parent, advocate, protector, and teacher for your child.

Maybe it’s about showing the world how amazing life can be when it turns out differently than you expected.

Maybe it’s about showing weakness. And being brutally honest. And making mistakes. And learning.

Maybe it’s about loving another human so much that you would literally throw yourselves to the wolves in order to show the world how amazing autism can be.

Maybe it’s about giving up control. And saying goodbye to the typical path. Maybe it’s about creating your own. Paving the way for others so maybe the journey isn’t quite so lonely or hard for them.

Maybe it’s about finding this unbelievable strength buried deep inside of you. As a mom. And as a human.

Maybe it’s about surviving. Because some days I swear that’s all I can do.

Maybe it’s about hitting your lowest point and sharing it with the world. And having it thrown in your face over and over again.

Maybe it’s about the fight. The struggle. The vulnerability that comes in not having all the answers.

Maybe it’s about believing in something. Something big. Huge. Like hope.

Maybe it’s about pushing back. And speaking out. And standing up for a little person who can’t yet.

Maybe it’s setting out to find your child’s voice but finding your own instead.

I guess I don’t know. Not really. But what I do know is that we are going to make it. This kid and I.

Actually no, we are going to do so much more than that.

We are going to take something mysterious, at times confusing and even a little scary, and shatter every single stigma around it.

So much so, that when a person who knows nothing of autism in their real life, sees an adult struggling at the grocery store or flapping their arms with joy or stimming on the bus, they are going to think…that person reminds me of Cooper.

Super Cooper. And there is nothing scary about Cooper. Because he is amazing.

Maybe I’ll say hi. Or walk on by without judging. Or take what I’ve learned about differences and educate others.

Maybe it’s about being real. And showing the beauty in the struggle. And finding the joy in the hard. And celebrating every single win, no matter how small.

Yeah, I think that’s it.

Never underestimate the impact you are making moms and dads. And your kids too. Just by going out in the community and sharing your realities. You are taking the fear away.

Keep talking.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.