Random musings

Drew is in a really good place right now.  We are so blessed to have the people who are in our lives, in our lives.  We have friends who are stuggling now with medical issues.  One friend with serious medical issues.  When this happens, I always feel fortunate that Drew is doing well.  Also a little guilty that he is doing well.  I also feel like I want to take Drew on a year-long vacation to some exotic, warm, beachy, breezy, musical, magical place.  There is a sense of urgency in showing him the best life has to offer, since we are here for such a limited time.  Life is too short for regrets, bad feelings, bad behavior, and pity parties.  My point is, if everyone lived their lives to be kind to one another, to accept everyone, with our many flaws, then life would be a heck of a lot more enjoyable.  For everyone.

My work as a job coach at ARC of Macomb has shown me a lot more about disabilities, and the amazing people who are different than we are.  I work with adults with a range of disabilities, either in crews of 3-5, or on a one-on-one basis.  They love to work.  They take pride in everything they do.  They have love in their heart.  They are funny, silly, crabby, sarcastic, kind, gossipy, sweet, moody and dedicated.  Just like the rest of us.  Oh, there is drama.  But HIPAA prevents me from going into details.  :)

We got to hang out with Drew's bestie, Maddie today.  Drew, Maddie, Jack and Luc (awesome frien-neighbors) played in the sprinkler in the 95 degree muggy heat.  Drew is so lucky/blessed to have the friends he does.  Every mom wants their kids to be loved and have friends; when you have a child with special needs that need is magnified about 1000 times. Everyone needs to feel loved and valued.  If we all went a bit out of our way to make someone feel valued, how great would life be?  If we saw everyone for their true essence?  If we had patience for those that need it the most? If we 'pay it forward' and practiced random acts of kindness every day?

I have said before, that one of the best gifts Drew has given to me, is acceptance.  Of others.  Of things I never would have accepted before.  Of less-than-perfect situations.  Of others' gifts. Of other's flaws (always working on this one) Of myself and my flaws. Of things that are just not fair.  It is a ongoing learning experience, and process, but I can't wait to see what is next.

Drew rocks my world every single day.  His personality kills me.  Like today, when Maddie was pulling his hair, pulling him toward her, snuggling with him, bonking her head on his...he looked at me like 'mom-it's okay.  I love this!'  They are so sweet together. She is more mobile than he is-but he lays his arm across her and looks at her with genuine love.  Sooooo sweet.  They have been friends practically their whole lives-her family is cool like ours. 

Sometimes life just isn't fair.  Why is Drew doing so well, and is so happy, when so many of our circle struggle every day with health issues?  Why is our buddy Ben at Children's Hospital right now, having a major crisis?  Sometimes life just isn't fair.  So again, be kinder than necessary to everone you meet.  Have patience when you don't have an ounce of it left.  Life is short--make the most of every single day and strive to positively impact the lives of everyone you encounter.

Thanks, Blogger Friends.  Happy Summer to you all.