“Mom, that means he’s pulling my tooth out, yes?”
“Yes, Tom.”
The dentist went on to say they prefer to use the term wiggle. Tom looked at me and asked again if the dentist was going to pull his tooth out. I again said yes.
Then the dentist went to give Tom a shot of “Silly Juice” which would make his mouth feel “funny.”
“Mom, that’s Novocaine, right? And, my mouth is going to feel numb, right?”
“Yes, Tom,”
I’m not the dentist’s favorite mom.
I’ve never been comfortable using words that soften things. When my kids ask me a question, I give them the most honest answer that I think they’re able to handle.
My parents did the same for my sisters and me, and I found it less frightening, not more.
I love words. I’m a writer who’s married to a writer. We’ve been teaching our children that words can empower, inspire, and educate. They can also anger, sadden, and hurt people.
Choose your words carefully was a phrase I heard often growing up, and I use it myself with my three children.
So why does the R word bother me so much? The word is used to medically define developmentally delayed people with below-average IQs.
It’s just a word. Right?
Or is it?
I remember clearly the afternoon I sat at my kitchen table listening on the phone while a pediatric neurologist explained the results of my two-year-old daughter’s MRI.
The doctor explained that because of the brain damage that showed up in the MRI, my daughter’s larger-than-average head size, and the shape of her eyes, it was possible that Lizzy could have a very serious genetic disorder.
The doctor told me it was possible that her skills would start to decline and that we should look out for any signs of deterioration.
She was two. She was barely talking. How much more could she degenerate? My heart stopped and our world changed.
All I could think about was children making fun of my sweet daughter.
My own memories of girls being mean to me or kids calling me stupid came flooding back to me. I was a typical girl with dyslexia.
If kids were mean to me, what were they going to do with a child whose disability was so apparent? What were they going to do to my child who didn’t have my gift of being able to communicate?
I still remember the summer I was 12 when my parents sent my younger sister and me to a day camp.
There was a girl with special needs in the 11-year-old group. I knew they were cruel and made fun of her. They treated her like she wasn’t a person.
Was that my daughter’s future?
Retard. Retarded. Retardation. Those words were very much in my mind.
When Lizzy was six weeks old, I was holding and cuddling her. I became alarmed when I realized she wasn’t looking at me the way I thought she should be.
That started a long parade of visits to specialists and therapists to help our daughter have a “normal” life.
But Lizzy’s issues defied conventional diagnosis. She didn’t fit any model or standard disorder. Just when a teacher or therapist was about to throw in the towel with Lizzy and claim her progress had stalled, Lizzy would turn around and do something brilliant. Every specialist was, and still is, confused.
Four MRIs, countless tests, several more specialists, and ten years later, we still don’t have an answer.
Her IQ tests puts her functioning in the level that the R word would pertain to. She has a very hard time communicating. Her voice can sound altered, and kids, understandably, have made comments that she talks funny.
When Lizzy was five, we were touring the school at which she would attend kindergarten. We walked into the classroom of the speech therapist who had a class going on. I helped prompt Lizzy, and soon she was talking a bit to the teacher.
One child commented that her voice sounded very funny. I was about to explain in a friendly and easy to understand way why that was, when a little boy said to the child very excitedly, “but she is talking. Lizzy is talking.”
As I looked at the little boy, I realized that two years earlier he had been in a preschool class with Lizzy for kids with speech difficulties. Lizzy could barely say a word back then.
He remembered her and was so happy that she could talk. He didn’t care what her voice sounded like.
I was most afraid of how children would react to my daughter but have found that children are likely to understand and want to help Lizzy.
Last year, I was at a playground with my kids, and Lizzy ran to another section where some older girls were playing. I was nervous that they would ask Lizzy to move out of their way and she would either not hear, not respond, or just start screaming or saying nonsense words they would surely find strange.
I smiled at the girls as I started to explain Lizzy had some special needs. One girl looked at me and with a smile said, “It’s OK. I know Lizzy from school. I help out her class at gym sometimes.”
“Hi, Lizzy. Do you remember me?”
Lizzy smiled. The girls were very sweet to her and played with her for a bit until we had to leave.
I’m not going to lie and say that I never get frightened about what my daughter’s life will be like. Or say that we have never encountered the occasional narrow-minded person. But for the most part I have been pleasantly surprised at how people have welcomed Lizzy into their lives.
Of course Lizzy is a pretty amazing girl.
Our daughter is a funny, creative person who loves to tell stories. She loves anything pink and feminine and enjoys picking out very cool outfits to wear. She also loves shoes and jewelry.
Whenever we go into New York City, Lizzy loves to stop and look at the store windows. Chanel and Dior outfits are favorites. Jewelry always makes a big impression. Once, she was enthralled with a display featuring diamond-encrusted shoes that took the sting out of having six vials worth of blood drawn.
Her laugh is contagious, and she has two loving brothers who are willing to do almost anything to make her giggle or laugh.
She has amassed a collection of tiaras, hats, purses, and necklaces from so many people that we will soon need a separate room to house the gifts of her many admirers.
Lizzy is a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, student, neighbor and friend.
And that is my problem with the R word.
In it’s most clinical term, it refers to one side of a person. The side that can be measured by an IQ or other developmental test.
When the R word is casually used to describe either ourselves or someone else when they do something we deem stupid, dumb, or absent minded, I realize that we are not trying to hurt people with a real disability. But how could it not be insulting to someone who is just trying to do their absolute best?
The campaign to end the R word isn’t meant to stop anyone from being themselves or censor free speech. It’s meant to bring understanding to a segment of the population which for so long has been misunderstood or invisible.
As family members and friends of people who have an intellectual disability, we know the value that each person has brought to our lives and communities.
Everyone has special talents and gifts. By marginalizing people with outdated terms, we make it easier to ignore their humanity.
We also cut ourselves and our children off from knowing some amazing individuals.
Hi Kathy, another beautiful person, a wonderful, loving tribute to your daughter. I am going to, via FB, introduce you to my friend Melissa who write a blog about her son, who is autistic. She recently wrote about the campaign to end the R word, and I think you’d enjoy her writing!
Take care,
Lisa
Thank you so much Lisa, I just read Melissa’s piece and it was beautiful! I so appreciate the support and kind words Lisa, this piece was a little harder for me to write! xo
So beautifully written Kathy! I’ve never met Lizzy, but the way you talk about her and describe her makes me love her already. She sounds like such a wonderful blessing to you, your family, and an entire community whose lives she clearly touches every day. I’m so proud of you for writing this and for taking a stand against the R word.
Many sweet blessings to you!!
~Rosann
Thank you so much dear friend! Lizzy is a blessing and I do hope that one day you can meet her. Thanks for your support, you will never know how much it means to me!! Sending much love to you!!
What a wonderful post, Kathy! I could feel the tears brimming in my eyes by the end of this post. Such a wonderful thing to know that there are people (kids even) out there who truly care for Lizzy.
Do send my love to your precious daughter! 🙂
Thank you so much for your sweet words and your support!!
Such a great post about a very touchy subject for many. It’s hard to teach your children that just because someone is different it doesn’t mean they are worth while when others around them are not as gracious and nice. I’m glad Lizzie has people in her life that care about her for who she is and that she has friends who look beyond her limitations! 🙂
Thanks so much for the visit and kind words. You are right, it can be hard to teach our children, but I do think it helps when they know people who are different than they are. I have had parents tell me that they are so glad that there children have had the chance to meet our daughter and that completely melts my heart! Thanks again Susi!!
Another beautiful post that I will definitely be sharing.
Thanks so much!!! It means a lot coming from you!! xo
Labels are so one dimensional and people are not. Thank you for writing such a wonderful post about Lizzy and your struggles!
Thea thanks so much for the kinds words and support! You are so right, labels are so one dimensional and people are not!! xo
So glad Lisa introduced us! Wonderful post, Kathy … look forward to reading more about your beautiful family.
Melissa I too am so glad Lisa introduced us! Having people introduce me to others who they think I have a lot in common with is one of my favorite things about blogging! I loved your piece on the R word too. I think it’s wonderful that parents, friends, and family are rallying around the very special people in our lives to hopefully bring about real change. Thanks again!
oh, kathy. this has got to be one of my favorite posts of yours. not only did you give such a beautiful and loving tribute to lizzy, but you brought up a topic that is so important.
i too, can not stand the “r” word. it is unkind and unnecessary.
it made me smile to read how sweet the little boy and girls on the playground were…the way it should be.
lizzy has one amazing mother…and i know she will continue to do great things. especially with a woman like you by her side.
xoxoxox
hope you have a wonderful week <3
maria
You are always so sweet to me Maria and I always look forward to your comments! The way children have reacted to Lizzy says so much about how much our world has changed. I remember once a little girl in her kindergarten class was just wonderful to Lizzy the whole year. The girl had invited Lizzy to her birthday party and I sand the girls praises when I left the message to RSVP. Her mom called me back thanking me and telling me how much it meant to her that her daughter was being so kind. She said she kept the message and plays it whenever her daughter is driving her crazy! Thanks a lot dear friend!! Much love!!
That was beautifully written. I so agree with being frank with your kids. lol I would love to see that dentists face! 😉 That would be me, yes Jeremiah it’s this. I am even one to warn before we go places that he may not like. Because when I was a child I needed to know. Like when I had to get blood tests every 6 months, my mom would tell me. The doctors didn’t like that, but I did. My mom gained more trust from me each time. 🙂 I may have freaked out anyways, but surprising me like that would have been even worse!
Mom’s know what their children need. 🙂 Not doctors most of the time!
I think Lizzy would enjoy this post, the love from her mother is obvious. 🙂 She sounds like such a precious girl.
Thanks so much Sarah! I hope Lizzy would like it, she is a very special person, as are my two great boys too, not that I’m biased at all!! I do agree with you about being honest, it worked for me when I was a kid and it works for my kids. Thanks again! xo
Great reminder of the power of words for good & bad. I, too, have a major problem with the R word. It is hurtful, and no matter what a person’s abilities are, they are a precious gift from God.
Thanks so much! I really appreciate your visit and kind words!
Thanks Kathy for sharing this incredible story. I too am a dyslexic and struggled in school thinking I would never amount to much. I realize, now that that our weaknesses become our greatest strengths.
As with Lizzy, she shouldn’t be describe using restrictive and hurtful words, but described for her strengths. She sounds like a wonder girl who brings the best out in everyone, now that is a strength and talent I wish I had!
Cynthia thank so much! It’s funny how much the memories of struggling in school can stay with us, isn’t it. Now I can see that everything I went through made me the best choice for all three of my children. You are right, our weakness’s can really become our greatest strengths! Thanks again!!
What a beautiful, eloquent post! It brought tears to my eyes. Lizzy is beautiful. She is rare, real, resplendent, remarkable, and resilient. Those are the only “R” words that matter!
Thank you so much for the great R words!! I love those! Thanks for the lovely words and the visit, it’s most appreciated.
I hate the “R” word! When ever it is used, it’s always meant as a derogatory term, and really no one deserves such when they are as you say merely doing their best. But even when it is used in the correct sense, it’s like you say, they are only measuring one side of the person. For me it seems as though they are limiting that person with that one word! Like you said, Lizzy doesn’t fit into any one box, so using that word would be to limit what she can do, as you said she continually amazes people!
YOu have an amazing daughter, family and you are amazing! I love visiting!
Amber thanks for your kind words! You are right, the word is so limiting however it is used. When I was reading up on the campaign and read some posts I was astonished at some of the responses. Some people felt that it was their right to use the word and since it was a medical term what was the problem. It’s been so great to have the piece accepted! Thank you so much for your visits, I’m very lucky to have met so many great people and great bloggers such as yourself!! Much love!!
Dear Kathy, That was just a beautiful post and a tribute to not only Lizzy but you and your Boys and Joe. Of course I am still crying . We love you and are so very proud os you and the only R words that should ever be used is real which is what you are and rare like a Diamond. they discribe you to a T Much Love Mom and Dad
Thank you Mom and Dad, now you made me cry!! Much love to you both and much thanks for all your love and support of me and my family!! xoxo
What a beautiful post. So inspiring to hear your story. Thank you for sharing it.
Thank you Lisa!! xo
I like hearing Lizzy’s story! I’m sure all of you wouldn’t be who you are without her, and sometimes these challenges that come our way in life end up being pure blessings. It’s nice to hear about all of the kind hearted and thoughtful people who treat her well.
Thanks so much!! You are so right the biggest challenges in our life really can and do end up being the best blessings! xo
I despise the R word too! LIzzy would fit in great over here with her diamonds and tiaras. What a great essay about your daughter. It is written from the heart and that shows through your writing. I must say, that it is encouraging to hear of so many young children who have reached out and been so kind to Lizzie. My prayer is that she continues to find more friends like that in her path who see her for her 100% true self! XXOO
I love to read your posts because you are right, Lizzy would fit in perfectly with your gang. She has had tule skirts that have to go quietly in the night to the great big closet in the sky!! Thanks so much for your very kind words!! xoxo
Isn’t that foundation a great place to visit for those that need a little bit of inspiration. I first became a supporter about a year ago when we go to the Opportunity Village here in Las Vegas, NV every year to support those that need a little more than just generosity. They need the support to make it on their own. Awesome post 🙂
Barbara thank you! I really just found it through reading other posts. It is a wonderful group. You are so right too, there are some things that just money can not cure!! Much love to you dear friend!!
What a lovely post this is Kathy! And it’s nice to learn about your family life and your insightful thoughts. The truth is, I’d like to think that I’m the type of person who gives people a chance.
I remember in highschool, there were a few girls that were picked on and I went out of my way to get to know them. They turned out to be amazing people who others did not give a chance: how unfortunate. Which is why I get what you mean by using the R word as a way of marginalizing a group of people who, surprise surprise, are beautiful individuals.
Hugs to you!
Anne
Thanks so much Anne. Your kind words and support mean so much to me. I think it’s great that you were able to see beyond labels Anne. Having Lizzy has opened up the world to me in a way that I didn’t know was possible. Thanks again!! Much love!!
Oh I can only begin to imagine how your daughter has enriched your life – enrichment that can’t be taken from any movie or book, just from pure experience. It’s wonderful to see how God paves the way for better perspective through the people He gives us. We are, and always will be, blessed.
Great post, Kathy. I feel like I know Lizzy from your writing about her and honestly she seems like such a sweet child. A child that you actually want to meet!!!! Hugs, xoxxo
Dani I hope that you get to meet her one day because she would LOVE you!! Thanks so much friend!! xo
Always liked this post, and the pics. So heartfelt. It restores your faith in humanity (if only a little) to hear that some kids are helping other kids. xoxxo
Kathy, people like YOU are going to change the way and reason people use ignorant terms. Sharing your story and Lizzy’s miraculous life is what informs people of how hurtful generalizing terms can truly be. You are amazing and incredible and your beauty shines through your children. I have to ask: What is the cake with the 100 for? Was someone turning 100 or is there an inside joke? 🙂 Lots of love to you!
Catherine thank you so much!! You are so sweet and always make me feel so great!
Regarding the cake, I should have put a caption on it. Last year when my blog hit 100 followers the kids and I had a party with my parents and we had a cake! Yes, I’m a nerd, but a happy one!! Much love to you!!
Very well said, Kathy. As a Sociologist, I was trained to appreciate labels and categorizations. However, I also agree and know that labels can marginalize and as you said, every word has power in our world. They can do this because of meanings we attribute to them and it’s sad when people wield this power carelessly. I hope this campaign gets heard. And I’m glad that Lizzy is surrounded by caring and open-minded souls.
Joy thanks so much. I agree that it is the meaning that gets attributed to certain words that is the problem. You are right, their is such power in words and it can be so easy to be careless with that power. Thanks so much for your support!! xo
A family very close to mine have a daughter with Down’s and, when I was about 9, her mother explained to me how hurtful it was when people referred to things as “retarded.” Even if they weren’t talking about her daughter, or meant it in a hurtful way, it was still upsetting. Ever since that talk, I never use the “R” word and cringe every time someone else does. Just as Lizzy is amazing, so was our friend’s little girl and, because of her parents love and dedication, she has grown into a great young lady. She won’t ever be considered as “normal,” but then again who really is completely normal? Lizzy sounds like such a character (and apparently knows what good style is)! She’s so lucky to have such awesome parents. This post was great, K-Rad! 🙂
Thanks so much Nate for such a great response. I always love to hear when other kids grow up to be happy people, it gives me so much hope! Lizzy is a trip. I have to get with it and start taking more pictures because these don’t do justice to her style!! Thanks again for the support, it means a lot to me!
Aw…how fortunate Lizzy is to have you as her mama. My 11 year old, who they can’t quite diagnose other than to say they “think” he has aspergers, is in the same place as Lizzie. He doesn’t “hear” you, he doesn’t see what’s going on and he’s in his own world. He is, however, very smart, sweet, helpful, adorable…blah blah blah.
I have a friend I’ve known since her birth. She sounds EXACTLY like Lizzy. I’m happy to announce that Karen, albeit with many struggles from unkind people, is an amazing artist, married and has adopted 3 amazing kids. She says “because” of what happened to her, not “in spite of” she became stronger in Christ and in spirit.
I love that girl, and many others will love Lizzy 🙂
Thanks so much Sharon, it’s always great to read how other people have taken their challenges and thrived because of them. Much love friend!!
Lizzy sounds amazing… I love how all the kids are so welcoming… I am sure it is because she has your warm and loving personality… She may have difficulties, but she still is one lucky girl to have such a wonderful family… Oh, and she has AMAZING taste in clothes!
Thank you so much Hilary! She is a trip!! She loves clothes, it’s so cute to see her glued to the windows of Dior or Channel! We have had hard core New Yorkers stop and smile when they see her, it’s cute! Much love to you!! xo
what a wonderful honest post– I TOTALY agree with you on the first part of the post— I try not to use “softy” words I think kids become afride of Dr Dentist etc, because of parents who try to make it sound like its no big deal –then PINCH in the cheek is a shock!–SCARED FOR LIFE
As for Lizzy–FDirst off I have to say I’m sure having a MOM(and reat of the family too) like you helps 1000% I taught for a short time at a school in our area that was for the developemental/learning impared… I had to leave becase I couldn’t handle it emotionaly—not becasue of the children, but THE PARENTS many of them were not as understanding about their childs needs-it would brake my heart because THEY were the ones who would use the R word talking down about thir own child!
vB frind poping in =)
Thanks so much for your kind words! I have such respect for teachers in general and teachers who teach special education in particular. We have had some wonderful teachers work with Lizzy. It’s a tough job, thanks for sharing your experience!
Oh my gosh…beautiful kids and beautiful post. Lizzie is lovely and it sounds like she’s truly a blessing to others. And yes…you’re right. Everyone has a special gift or talent. EVERYONE. Thanks for sharing your story.
Diane thanks so much, we are very lucky and blessed!! Thanks again for the visit and the support!
An INCREDIBLE post…The pictures are great…I love the American Girl cover. What a beautiful family you have!
Thank you and thank you for being such a great friend to me and to Lizzy!! You have been such a blessing in my life!! Much love dear friend!!
Kathy, I agree, for the most part we have dealt with very little negativity with our daughter who has Downs. It’s such and ugly word – I don’t know why people continue to use it and why Hollywood seems oblivious to its impact. Nice blog post.
Valerie you are so right, and I also agree that Hollywood does seem to oblivious to its impact, but it has taken a lot of work to get Hollywood and the media to be sensitive to a lot of things. Hopefully having people and parents like us bringing attention to it will help!! I’m so glad you have had similar dealings with people. It is very different than the world I knew as a kid, which is great!! Much love to you!!
What a moving post! It is so beautiful the way these children have embraced Lizzy. Children are amazing. Lizzy sounds like an amazing girl with a lovely personality. Thank you for writing this post.
Thank you so much Courtney. I have been so thrilled at how children have been with Lizzy. And I have to say my boys are wonderful with not only their sister but with all children as well. As hard as it has been at times because we don’t always know how best to help Lizzy, Lizzy’s challenges have opened up our lives to some wonderful people and children that we may not have ever met. Plus, Lizzy is pretty amazing! Lol! Thanks so much for the lovely words!
Thank you so much for this post. I have a 5 year old with multiple special needs which, to this day, remain undiagnosed as a syndrome. She is a 5 year old infant. She is medically fragile. She would also fall into the R category. It has surprised me how many people so casually throw around this word. I don’t think they even necessarily hear themselves say it. It is commonplace. It is also so offensive to me. I try to speak out once in a while about the R word in the hopes that people will check themselves when they speak. I love your story about how the children have embraced Lizzy as well. She sounds like such a special girl!
Sarah thank you so much for writing. I can not get over how many children with devastating issues do not have an official diagnosis’s. I was always under the impression that if an MRI showed significant damage, or a child had life threatening medical issues, or could not walk, or talk their would be an answer. Our experience with Lizzy as well as meeting other families whose disorders are even more numerous than hers has really opened my eyes. There is so much that is still not known. Thank you for sharing your story. I think not only by speaking out but by really sharing our children and our stories people will start realizing that our children are so much more than a word. xo
Awe Kathy! HUGS! You have such an amazing gift in her! Lizzy, will show you the mercy and grace that God has given the both of you as you two walk through this life. Many Blessings to you and may all her accomplishments be celebrated by all who know or see her as you have so awesomely celebrated her through your post!
Hugs and Love,
Thomasina thank you so much for your beautiful words, they mean so much to me! Hugs and love right back to you sweet friend!
This post tugged at my heart! We’ve been dealing with a whole host of problems with our son; in only 6 months he’s been diagnosed with PDD/ADHD/Asperger, and has suffered a severe bilateral hearing loss resulting in his need to wear hearing aids. We don’t know how severe the loss is going to be or what other diagnoses may come to light as we see neurologists, audiologists, speech therapists, pulmonologists… I understand the daily fears that kids are going to be mean, that people are going to say things to hurt him… and yet there are also those amazing moments when his brilliance overwhelms me or the kindness of other children make my heart sing! Hugs to you!
Jenn please know my heart goes out to you as you walk this difficult path. We have seen all the specialist you have mentioned and it can really become a grind. Also, we have had the same experience of new issues coming to light. Lizzy also has a hearing disorder, but it is very rare and is most likely connected to the brain disorder. She wears what looks like a hearing aid but is really an F.M unit. As I’m sure you know there are good days and there are really bad days. My thoughts and prayers go out to you. Much love and hugs to you!!
Thank you for sharing Kathy. The sweetness of the girl on the playground brought tears to my eyes. I do think part of the ignorance and cruelty people have towards others with disabilities is because of fear in not knowing how to respond.
Kenya thank you so much! I think you are so right that fear plays a huge role. For so long people with disabilities were kept hidden and that which we don’t know about can be scary. I think that’s what is so amazing about some of the programs available in some school districts now. We are so lucky to be in a district that has a variety of inclusion programs that allow children to get know kids who may seem different. I know that has made all the difference in how children respond to her. Thanks again!!
That’s a really wonderful tribute to your little girl. I guess as parents we tend to think quite negatively sometimes about our own kids ability and are afraid that they may get hurt but it’s amazing how “Wrong” we can get sometimes and it’s great that she is loved and cared for by all around her.
You are so right Donimique sometimes our own fears and experiences really color our expectations. Thanks so much for visiting and commenting. I really appreciate the support!
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing such a touching piece – I was almost in tears. I’m relieved to know that there are so many wonderful, accepting children out there – not just bullies. I can’t imagine the hours and hours you have spent worrying baout her. You guys have been through a lot. But she is very lucky to have such a loving and present mommy.
L is clearly for Lovely Lizzy.
Leigh @ oneandoneequalstwinfun.com
Thank you so much Leigh! The bullies get a lot of press, which they should, but there are wonderful children out there as well. I so appreciate the lovely words and support!!
Wow, great post. Every one needs a label for EVERYTHING. It’s ridiculous. Mostly I find they search for a label for something which will put that thing somehow beneath them in stature or accomplishment. I think this is why we like putting down celebrities. Your kids are lucky to have such a straight-talking, intelligent mom….or should that be ‘mother’, or ‘parent’?
Kenny thank you so much. I totally agree I think the need we have to put people in a category is based on fear. I think we are always so scared that bad things will happen to us and I think maybe it gives us a sense of safety to think that certain things only happen to “those” people. I really appreciate your visit and support!
Lovely post and so touching and heartfelt. You all are a very special family and it is obvious how much love exists between you.
Thank you so much for the very kind words and the visit! The support means so much to me!!
Than you for always having such beautiful posts waiting for me. This one melted my heart. It’s a pity that the world has so many ignorant people, still.
Your precious girl lovces diamond encrusted shoes, Doir, Chanel, and she likes to wear tiaras. I’d say she’s rather brilliant.
xo – Catherine
Catherine thank you so much! I really appreciate your support! I think she is pretty brilliant too!! She’s a real trip!! xo
Kathy, such a beautifully written post. I love how your love for your daughter shines through in every word. Lizzy is a gift.
Christina thank you so much!! I think she is a gift too!! Much love!
This was simply beautiful Kathy. You are an inspirational mom and it is clear that Lizzy was meant to be in your life. You are truly a gift to each other. Please know, that the kids in the school I work in are well educated on the impacts of the words they use, and I firmly believe that the shift of awareness is strong everywhere. The word is being spread by the strength of mom’s and allies all over. You rock Kathy!
Thank you so much for your very kind words. It’s great to hear about the kids in your school, our district has been doing a wonderful job as well. I think it is really great that schools are being more inclusive and are teaching tolerance. I think this can only benefit everyone. I think you rock too!! xo
I’m the exact same way with my kids. I may try to soften things a little bit, but for the most part – I try to tell it like it is. My parents did that for me, too, and it did help to have things explained like a grown up!
It’s true, isn’t it?! Thanks for the visit!
Another thoughtful and beautifully written post. I love that you have found yourself surprised with such kindness kids have shown towards your daughter. That must warm your heart so much. I remember, when I went to school, children that had special needs, were kept in their own classroom. I never made fun of them but I was a little afraid. Why else would they have been so excluded and segregated. I love that now schools focus on inclusion and as a result, I think that kids are shocking all of us at how well they are able to accept each other and all the wonderful and amazing differences that make us all individuals.