Waiting for School
The sweet email said…’Cooper has been on my mind all day! How was his first day back to school?’
I’ll admit I teared up a bit as I read her words. The kindness of strangers continues to amaze and humble me. And she wasn’t the only one who asked about him. There were dozens of emails and messages asking how he did.
Cooper had a fantastic day at school!
I was a bit nervous this morning because somewhere wires got crossed and his bus never came.
He was dressed and ready to go at least 30 minutes before it was supposed to arrive.
He waited at the window. And then the door. And then on the porch.
He paced. He watched. He took deep breaths and showed me his calm hands.
He carried his bag of expertly curated treasures. Paper. DVD cases. Magazine and book pages. Post cards. And photos. His things that bring him comfort.
His little brother followed him every step of the way. They both mumbled as they moved. Cooper knew the bus was late. The baby did not. He just knew brother was waiting for something and he would keep him company.
They waited together like this.
It never came. That sorta change used to send him over the edge. It used to wreck his whole day. He likes routine. He likes structure. He likes getting on his bus and going to school.
But today, he didn’t seem to mind. He paced himself right to my car and I drove him and his brother to their elementary school.
He didn’t want to leave Sawyer. But he did. Sawyer reminded him for a second time that he would be there if he needed him. That promise seemed to suffice and off he went.
He had a great day. I heard that everyone got a hug and a smile.
And that the bus will for sure come tomorrow.
Did I ever tell you that before school was shut down his bus driver told me with a smile…‘I hit the bumps for him. He loves the bumps! Pretty great kid you got there.’
This kid I tell ya. The one who doesn’t talk and does everything his own way…the one who is changing the stigma and fear around the word autism.
To change the world like he does. To teach so many people. To warm so many hearts.
It’s a pretty amazing thing when you think about it.
Also! Go watch my Instagram stories to see us waiting for the bus! It’s pretty cute. My Instagram page is Findingcoopersvoice.
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.
