Life Has a Way of Changing

You want to know what’s amazing about life? And my kid? And hard work? And goals? And hope?

This. This right here.

A simple trip to the grocery store.

Something that most families take for granted.

Something that we are always working on.

Calm body. Walking.

Being safe.

Waiting. Communicating.

But more importantly, being out in the community.

A year ago I would have never dreamed that I would have met him and his therapist at the grocery store. That goal wasn’t even an option.

Or that he would wait calmly while I ordered a coffee and not roll on the ground or run into the parking lot.

Or that he’d pick out two doughnuts. One for him and one for his brother. (Although neither made it out of the store.)

Or that we’d shop for 8 more items, not the 5 I originally promised.

Or that we would calmly, go up and down all the aisles. Blending in. No running. No knocking items off shelves.

Or that he’d pick out his favorite juice. And grab the goldfish off the shelf and calmly put the bag in the cart.

Or that I’d be able to talk him through a meltdown when it was time to wait to pay. Just by bending down and kneeling on the ground and whispering in his ear, ‘almost done buddy. You are doing a great job. Let’s go eat your doughnut now.’

Or that he’d sign ‘thank you’ to the sweet curious lady checking us out.

Or that he’d sit for 10 minutes and eat both doughnuts.

And finally that he’d help me push the cart out to the car. Through the busy parking lot. Without me holding onto him for dear life. Never once running into traffic.

Parents of younger kids, I want you to know this.

The hard that you are experiencing now…it won’t last forever. I’m not saying it will necessarily get easier…because I don’t have a crystal ball.

But some things will get easier. And some won’t. But change is inevitable.

Keep working. Set goals. Keep pushing the boundaries and limits. Keep trying.

Your child will grow. And so will you.

You will do it together. Remember that.

Just look at this kid.

Grocery shopping.

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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.