The Measure of Success
The measure of success isn’t always a perfectly posed photo…
Yesterday, our family of five volunteered to hand out candy at a Trunk or Treat.
We expected it to be busy and fun, which it was. What we didn’t expect was 27 degree weather and sleet. That was a shock.
I’ll tell ya, two years ago I wouldn’t have dared to volunteer for something like this. Because, well, we wouldn’t have all be able to go. It would have been stressful with running and unsafe behaviors. Or it would have involved having a babysitter.
See our older son Cooper used to really struggle with events outside of our home. And while they are far from perfect today by anyone’s standards, they are night and day better.
So while Jamie and I handed out candy with a cute little turtle waving at every car, and a SWAT member protecting the perimeter, our son Cooper sat in the car with his blanket, iPad, snacks and a juice.
He was happy. He was content.
We were all present. Together.
We snapped this photo once we were done. We were all frozen. We asked Cooper to join us but he was content in his little nest so we didn’t force him to join us. What’s the point. To avoid someone asking…‘where’s Cooper?’ on my posted photo?
He’s there! He’s even saying cheese.
I’ve learned that the measure of success is isn’t always the perfectly staged photo for Facebook. In our world, it’s our family being together in the community.
Think about those measures of success parents. We get to choose what they are. No one else.
It was a good day. Also, we miss warm weather and it’s only October.
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.
