To My Son’s First Friend…
To my sons first friend,
I’m not sure that you know what you mean to me. I have watched you and my boy, for months now. I have seen the way you tend to him. Not in a, here I’ll help you because you’re special needs…kind of way. But a, you’re my friend and I want to be with you…kind of way.
I have seen the way you look at him, and the way he looks at you. I have watched you get him to do things, that others can’t. You pay attention to him. You have learned what he likes, and what he doesn’t. And you respect that.
You notice that he is different, but you have befriended him anyways.
You know that he doesn’t talk a lot. You know that a lot of what he says is repeated, or something about Sponge bob, or Captain Hook. But did you know that he talks about you?
Did you know that out of all of the kids that he has attended school with for the past 2 1/2 years, you are the first one that he has mentioned by name.
We hear your name a lot, usually followed by the words, ‘Best friend.’
There has been a lot of talk his year about progress. Which he has made. But again, you know this. You update me all the time. With a big smile on your face, you tell me all the things that he is getting better at. (You have also been known to give me parenting advice. Which I listen to.)
We have given credit to teachers and therapists, but do you want to know what I think has played a part in his success, this year?
You. You have made a difference. You have taught him things, that no adult would ever be able to.
I don’t know how long this friendship will last.
Until the end of this year, throughout elementary school…forever? What I do know, is whatever amount of time you all have together, I am thankful for. I’m thankful that during his lifetime, he will know what having a true friend is like. I’m thankful that he isn’t the boy…playing alone, anymore.
I’m thankful for YOU.
Sincerely,
Carter’s mama
Written by, Samantha Fawns
Her son Carter Rue, thinks he is a pirate. He also, happens to have autism. Everyday is an adventure, when you are a part of “Carter’s Crew.” Sam shares their journey at The Au-Some Pirate.
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