I Found My Voice This Year

It’s time for New Years Resolutions.

I made mine mid year somehow and didn’t even know it.

For years I tried to help my son find his voice and in the process I found mine.

Once my son was diagnosed I lost mine I think. I just wanted to do everything right for him.

I found my voice this year.

It’s a loud one and one spoken with love.

I stood up for myself, my son and for both of our mental health.

I fought for him to have a great school year, I’m sure I ruffled some feathers but I hope they know it wasn’t personal.

I would move mountains for him.

Most of the things my voice did was in silence.

I silently stopped letting others control my thoughts.

I stopped letting people make me feel bad for not attending events.

Silence is a funny thing. It can be painful for the caregiver of a non verbal child but it’s also beautiful how we are able to communicate with no words.

I think sometimes words can be the most hurtful thing.

When you have a child who is nonverbal you look for facial signs, body language and more.

I spent 3 years doing that then started looking around me with the same eyes.

I can read people far better now.

I can tell their intentions right out of the gate.

One in particular really hurt me this year, like I really let it get to me. I let it destroy my peace for many months.

Then I realized that the words this person spoke could be quieted with silence.

I don’t need to explain myself or my child to those who are committed to misunderstanding us.

Silence can be golden.

For those of you just starting this journey…don’t let the expectations attack your spirit.

Look into your child’s eyes and eventually you will start to see what they need. Not all of it of course because the nonverbal world is complex.

Once you’ve mastered that, look around you and find your people whose eyes are always smiling back at you.

Those are your people, the ones who love you unconditionally. They love you when your facing battles or hard times not just when it’s convenient for them.

As for the others, let your silence be your sword. You don’t have to explain yourself or your child to anyone.

My resolution this year is to continue on this journey of empowering not only my child…. but myself.

Wishing you and yours a Happy New Year.

Be Kind.

Written by, Anonymous

Finding Cooper’s Voice accepts guest posts from writers who choose to stay anonymous. I do this because so many of these topics are hard to talk about. The writers are worried about being shamed. They are worried about being judged. As a writer and mother I totally get it. But I also understand the importance of telling our stories. And this will ALWAYS be a safe place to do it.

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Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter