A Lesson We All Need to Learn

I’m at this point in my life, silly as it may sound, where I try to figure out the lesson when things happen.

What did I learn from this? How can I do better next time? Can I help in anyway? And so on.

This morning I woke up to an adult woman making fun of my son’s haircut.

Which is strange. I mean, she’s an adult. A mother. She can type and speak.

My son is ten.

The comment didn’t need to be shared. It was not necessary.

What does she gain? Does she feel cool, powerful, funny? I honestly don’t know.

I was obviously mad. I mean, he’s a kid. Who cares how he combs his hair. Not to mention haircuts are hard for him. But I happen to think he looks perfect. Pretty cute if you ask me.

The woman deleted her comment after the 500th response or so. Did she see the error in her ways? I’m sure not. She just didn’t want to be attacked for attacking a child.

But the lesson. What is it? Where is the nugget of wisdom I can glean from this person’s rudeness?

Well, right now Cooper is doing a puzzle independently. He is so happy and proud and every few minutes has me clap. I know when he’s done he will high five me. And after that he will pick up every last piece and I will cheer and he will dance.

Pure joy. Innocence.

And the lesson hit me like a train.

If this woman happened to walk up to my sweet boy at the park and say her criticism to his face…tease him…point out how he looks goofy…he wouldn’t lash out.

He would smile, most definitely wave, give a high five, and if she was lucky, hug her. He would return her evil with kindness. Because he knows no hate. Quite simply, he does not know how to be mean.

He would never make fun of someone’s hair or clothes or weight. Never. He doesn’t care what’s cool or in right now. He’s just happy when he’s with people. He’s happy when he’s given attention and when people spend time with him.

He would give love.

And that’s a lesson we all need to learn.

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.