It's Time

It happens so fast doesn’t it? That leap between the curiosity of a toddler and the sudden understanding of a young child suddenly happens, and in an instant you realize how far they’ve come. It seems such a short time ago that I was coaxing my daughter to take her first steps, and pleading with her to say a few words. Now, much to my amazement I see a bright-eyed inquisitive child, whose thirst for knowledge and search for freedom, leave me both breathless and excited about her future.

I want so much for the world to see how incredible children with Down Syndrome really are. There are days I feel I could stand on the rooftop and just shout and scream for people to look and see my amazing daughter. My deepest desire is for people to know someone with Down Syndrome and realize that it isn’t something to be feared, or looked upon with disdain. If I were a braver person I could easily knock on doors and take the time to explain to people what Down Syndrome really means.

I suppose a great deal of people assume, that parents of children with Down Syndrome feel some incredible burden of despair. I don’t think I’ll ever understand that. More importantly, I don’t want that kind of thinking to continue. I want people to see what a blessing and a joy it can be to have a child with special needs. I guess that means I’m on some kind of mission or crusade of sorts. I figure even if I only change ten people’s minds about Down Syndrome, I’ve made a measurable difference. After all, if it only takes one person to do the wrong thing, then it should only take one to do the right thing.

Make a difference in the neighborhood, the community, or the city where you live. Check your local schools and libraries to see if they have accurate and up to date information about Down Syndrome. Most of all, if you see a child with Down Syndrome, realize you’re seeing something wonderful and precious, don’t be afraid to ask the parents questions. I’d have to say that most parents are very receptive if you are genuinely interested.

Every thing you do affects people around you. When you cut someone off on the highway, they get angry and take it out on someone else. Likewise, when you do something good, like letting someone in front of you at the check out line or help an elderly woman with a bag of groceries, it all adds up. Just think of the wonderful things you can do if you’re making a difference for kids with Down Syndrome everywhere. It may only take a moment, but someone is sure to be touched by your effort.

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