November 21, 2024
Unexpected Moments: The Magic of My Son’s Christmas Spirit
I’ve learned as I’ve aged that the biggest, most memorable moments of our lives, are often the ones we least expect.
Of course a wedding, the birth of our babies, an anniversary, are the best.
But other ones sneak in. When you least expect them.
A solo car ride with your son.
A walk with your aging parent.
Staying up way too late drinking wine with your husband.
Coffee with a friend.
Or when your first born takes it upon himself to decorate for Christmas.
Now, I know that may not sound like a big deal. But, well, it’s huge.
Cooper is thirteen and autistic he didn’t acknowledge Christmas for many years.
Presents would sit unopened under the tree.
Stockings full of gifts ignored.
No letters to Santa. No acknowledgment of the day at all.
But, over the last few years it’s changed. Slowly. But surely.
Yesterday, while I cooked dinner, my view of the living room obstructed, I heard him moving and unpacking. I heard him gasp numerous times.
All by himself, he carried tub after tub of decorations to the living room.
And he arranged each item meticulously. While his iPad blared Christmas music that he had chosen.
‘Oh, Christmas Tree!’
I watched his hands dance in the illumination of a train that projected on the ceiling. Smiling as he ran to turn the lights off for a better view.
This is it. This right here.
This is the big moment I prayed for. I dreamed of. I refused to stop hoping for.
And with his autism, I know we may get this forever. And boy was it worth the wait.
The magic of Christmas. And a boy who in a different world would be over Santa and reindeer by this age.
This part right here. It’s so wonderful.
And his decorating? Well, I like to say he nailed it.
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.
