This Is Independence

Two weeks ago, this kid asked me to ride the bus. Sorta out of the blue.

He verbalized it…’H-U-SSS.’ (B’s are hard for him.)

He showed me busses on YouTube. He showed me busses in books. He pointed them out in the community.

And me, being the mom I am, smiled, cheered, and thought…no way. I’m too scared. He’s too vulnerable. I can’t do it. Nope.

But his dad, well he reminded me how I preach about independence. Nonstop.

I want my son to make his own choices. I want him to ask me for things. I want him to be brave.

He did that. He asked. He made a choice. And you want to talk bravery…this is it.

Fearless.

Wish him luck folks. He left this morning on the bus with two amazing ladies and his peers. He waved to every one of them.

Sometimes independence looks like this. Turns out he was way more ready than I was.

I of course cried. Cooper and his dad did not.

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.