Dear Addie,
Life is a series of doors, some closing while others open, some we will walk through together and others you will walk through alone. Wherever you are in life, it’s up to you to decide whether you walk through or not, and there can be big feelings that come with that decision no matter which you choose. Excitement, anxiety, maybe even sadness, there’s no right or wrong answer on how one should feel, but the doors will always be there waiting to be opened or closed.
The past couple of weeks were a true testament to the fluidity we must possess in what can be such a rigid journey in our world navigating autism, as you opened yet another new door in your life’s journey starting a new school.
School, a place where us as parents leave a piece of our heart and pray all goes well, especially with our conversationally challenged children. School, the thing that has consumed my thoughts for well over a year now of just what this next middle school chapter will look like with endless research and tours. School, a place where in our world, parents are often asked (ever so kindly) to refrain from coming to the classroom, volunteering, or doing any sort of surprise lunch with our kids because of the undo stress it can create on the student and even the parent. School, a door with big feelings for all involved.
Now keeping in the theme of fluidity, your 1:1 aide wouldn't be starting for a few weeks, so I was filling in (not usually an ideal situation, but ya know, it is what it is) giving me a sneak peek at just what’s behind the door and that’s when I saw it…
Somewhere close to 45 individuals ranging from middle school, to high school, to adults all with vastly “unique” abilities and cohesively learning, playing, and thriving together.
I saw it.
Compassion at its finest when you were having, let’s just say some "spirited" moments adjusting to the newness of it all.
I saw it.
Confidence that you could participate and answer questions asked of you and others in class.
I saw it.
Kindness, energy, and love that every parent dreams their child will experience in education. A safe place to learn new things, make mistakes and try again. A place where even the smallest of voices matters.
Addie, every day we walk a small part of someone else’s life journey. Our presence has meaning and purpose even if we don’t know it. I'm not sure if anyone at this school saw us coming, but I'm so grateful our paths have crossed.
I walked through a door with you quite literally starting your new school and I saw exactly what I had hoped and prayed to find for you. Not gonna lie, I’m gonna be sad when my time with you at school is over - but with the amazing staff and your 1:1 who is a complete rockstar, I’m not worried ;).
I know not every day will be easy, but I am so very proud of you baby girl.
Love,
Mom
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