This is Acceptance

Let me tell you about a boy I know…His name is Cooper.

Today, we had a party in our front yard and we celebrated him.

We had ice cream and sprinkles and chocolate syrup and cupcakes.

We invited all the kids in the neighborhood and their parents.

And we celebrated this boy. The one who was born seeing and hearing and feeling and thinking in his own unique way.

Some people tried to tell me that his life was going to be sad and lonely. They told me all of the things that he would never do or accomplish.

They stole the joy from my eyes for many years. I have so much guilt that I let them do that.

But this boy, he helped me find it again. He grabbed my hand and led me into his world.

He loves parties. He loves people. Especially his people.

He greeted every single one of his guests with a wave and a smile today. And he hugged his favorites.

He used his speech device to tell them that his grandparents are coming in two days.

He held up two fingers to inform a few of them that he is waiting on two dvds from eBay.

He took a break and went to the mailbox with his dad and returned with a brand new train magazine. He was pretty stoked to show that off too.

And when he got overwhelmed by the noise, he signed ‘help’ to me and we made him a safe space right in the middle of the celebration.

He hid for a while and just listened to the hum of his friends. He didn’t want to leave, he just needed a timeout to reset.

And when the rest of the kids went to play football, he decided it was time to take his leave and watch his programs.

Today we celebrated a boy. A happy boy. One who is surrounded by love and support.

Today we celebrated a different life and it was amazing.

This my friends is acceptance.

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.