It’s funny isn’t it, the things we grow thankful for as we grow older?

The mindful morph we experience from child to adult.

As a kid I was that shy, timid little redhead that just did her best to not “make waves”.
I kept to myself, to keep the waters steady.

Whether that have been within my relationships, by keeping my tougher feelings in, or by avoiding new things, in fear of looking “silly”.

I was, and often still am, my own worst enemy.

Fast forward some odd years, and today I am one of the most outspoken people I know.
Some days probably to a fault even.

Not because it’s comfortable, or exciting, but because my family needs me to be that for them.
And so do I, for me.

I raise my voice up high for all to hear, so that our little special needs family is seen, and heard.
And I am thankful for those that take the time to listen.

My focus on what I am thankful for took a major shift, from the childhood thanks of materialistic things, to adulthood, where your “Monday” is made, simply from being heard.
By being included.

I am thankful for supportive family that take the time to ask questions about our son, about special needs, and about “the hard” when those days arise.

That take the time to adapt their thoughts, and family get-together, and their opinions.

I’m thankful for empathetic friends that appeared out of thin air, over “Zoom” calls, and social media pages; through a time in the world when in-person gatherings are scarce.

I’m thankful for our son’s team.
For school notes that tell us exactly what foods my Beckett tried that day, what tasks he nailed, and what tasks we need to work on.

And I’m grateful for the lack of push-back, and the level of understanding for it’s necessity.
And the enthusiasm behind every written smiley face and accomplishment.

I’m thankful for every quirky smile, laugh, and tease from our sweet 5-year-old.
Thankful that he was made from the toughest of “clay”, and beat every single odd, from the day he was born.

And thankful that he is ahead of the world, and pays no mind to judgement or ignorance.

Thankful that our boy pushes through, and proves he can overcome anything set in his path, just given some time and understanding.

I’m thankful for minds open to education and advocacy, and thoughts that differ from their own.

I’m thankful for individuals that care. Regardless if they ever seen your face in this life.

I’m thankful for this platform, for the voice I have been given, as it now speaks for two.

And I’m thankful for this life. No matter how difficult it proves to be some days.
Because it molded me from that fearful, shy little girl, to this motivated, expressive, Mama warrior, that I strive to be.

We learn as Beckett learns. We fight as Beckett fights. We play as Beckett plays. And we love as Beckett loves.
With our whole heart.

Thank you for being here. For your open minds and open hearts. And for loving our sweet boy just as we do.
Unconditionally.
We are thankful for YOU.