Letter

Dear One,
     The tears you cried this morning were seen, heard and felt by me deeply. Wishing we had someone else's life is not unusual; it is part of the human journey and one that many of us experience from time to time. Your desire to have a typical life like your siblings is probably common too but no less heartfelt. Your road is a different one and will be rockier and more treacherous at times. Getting an education, making friends, playing sports, being healthy, finding a job, these things have all been more difficult for you. I too have sometimes wanted an easier path for you, but not a different one. I do not want someone else's life for you because then you would be somebody else. You would not be you. I love you: untypical, funny, special, friendly, intellectually disabled, helpful, good-at-so-many-things you.
     The world judges us harshly at times but sometimes we judge ourselves the most harshly. I know that you have heard words like retarded, stupid and dumb. Anyone who uses those words to describe you does not know you very well. You know more than most people about courage, faith, hope and love. When you use those words to describe yourself you are doing yourself and everyone who loves you a disservice. We know who you are and love you for that very reason. You are exactly who you are supposed to be and your life is yours, to live as you choose. Your choices may be fewer but they will be yours and I hope will bring you a life of contented fulfillment along with some funny stories to share around the dinner table.
     I cannot begin to tell you how rich you have made my life, every single day that you have shared it. Not only have you grown and learnt and become the unique person that you are but you have helped shape me and make me a better person and I would never change that, ever. Thank you for being you.
Always,
Mama