I am grateful to the mom of two small children who didn’t run away from the playground when my child screamed bad words. I apologized to her for my child’s behavior. She complimented my composure and invited me to join a play group.
In gratitude to my church community for always including this child in all programs.
Thank you to my former minister who came to our pew during communion to personally deliver the sacraments. My child tantrummed, and I was unable to go to the alter. No word of judgment uttered about my child disturbing a sacred ritual.
Appreciative of my child’s yoga teacher who created a smaller class size because my child didn’t cope well in a larger class. This smaller class allowed my child to succeed in a group setting while still getting the benefits of yoga.
Thankful for the non judgmental mother at the splash pad who came over to offer assistance during one of my child’s extreme meltdowns. Her presence reduced my stress which had an immediate calming effect on my child.
In grateful recognition, to grandparents who continue to be an example of unconditional love for this child sometimes lashes out more on those who are loved most.
My heart pours out in joy to those who continue loving and supporting us because they know that my child is not defined by the hard moments. My child is worth getting to know.
While it can be hard sometimes, my child is full of play and laughter to share with others. My child needs friendship not pity.
By including my child, you are giving my child a gift. A gift of community.
My belief is that my child will continue to grow more if accepted by others.
Excluding children with negative behavior doesn’t allow them to learn pro social behaviors from their typically developing peers and adult role models in the community.
Next time you see that kid what will you do?
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This post originally appeared at Finding the Golden Gleam.
