The Year of Acceptance

I was headed to get my son Jd his favorite food at the food stop next door when I heard the older boy’s voice. It caught me off guard.

I saw his dad next to him, paying for the delicious hotdog on a stick.

This was our second time attempting to eat outside of our box as a family, since our son’s ear tubes were placed. Before his surgery this outing wasn’t even thinkable let alone doable.

I vowed to myself that if Jd was actually able to hear that I would get us out of the house. So, here we are, three weeks after surgery, double stroller in tow, ready to get him his favorite pizza, when Jd dropped his toy.

That’s when I heard the voice. Deep. The older boy saw the treasure Jd had dropped and let his parents know.

I stopped and stared. To them it probably looked like I was staring for the wrong reasons. But in reality, I wasn’t looking at their son.

I was looking at them.

An older couple. Together. Taking their son to get his favorite food. Treasures in tow. And I saw our future. Our youngest child will probably be graduated and gone.

It will just be me, my husband and Jd. And I’m sure pizza.

I suddenly wanted to tell her sorry I was staring, I was just taking notes.

I wanted to tell her she’s doing great.

I wanted to tell her my son loves Muppets as well. Shoot, I had questions and could use the help but instead I probably just looked crazy. Judgey even? Why?

Because I saw my life fast forwarded. My possible future. The grayer, older (wiser) soul still taking her son to get his favorite pizza. No matter the age.

That’s the exact moment I made a resolution.

Stop being silent. Be my son’s voice until he has a way to communicate for himself.

The next time if I’m in that situation I’ll say, ‘thanks buddy’ for your help. And give mom a wink instead of just looking like a ghost and walking away.

Next time I’ll tell the parent who still makes sure their child’s happiness come first, no matter the stares, remarks or age appropriateness, ‘your the inspiration as well.’

This is the year of acceptance.

And hopefully the year we can all eat the same food at once instead of three separate meals for mom’s sake!

Written by, Nicole Arruda

My name is Nicole. I have a three year old son on the spectrum and we are just trying to make it day by day. I’ve found out if I think ahead more than that anxiety takes over. so just for today. You can follow us on Facebook at JdsASDjourney.

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.

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