March 3, 2023
He Joined Us
You see a child lying on the floor watching an iPad in front of the tv. I see progress. I see hopes and wishes happening.
I see a child who joined our family for a movie tonight.
See, it doesn’t happen all that often. Typically, he stays up on his room watching the history of the great American railway or John Deere tractors.
But tonight he came down. He joined us.
He brought 3 blankets. And his stories on his iPad. He started on the couch. But prefers the floor.
He tried popcorn but decided it wasn’t his thing. He thanked me though. After handing me the bowl back. And clapped.
He gasps now and again. When Elliot from Pete’s Dragon roars. He likes the music too. It catches his attention every so often.
But really, I think he likes to be near us. His loud, chaotic, family. The never ending questions from a four year old and a little sister.
We are his home.
Autism. Cooper. Trains and dragons. Near but far. That’s what I say. Close enough to touch but not always able to reach. That’s how I describe our secret world.
Every so often he gets my attention and holds two fingers up. He needs me to remind him. Reassure him. Calm his mind.
‘Yes buddy. Your two movies will arrive tomorrow. They will be here. I promise.’
The familiar gasp. Smile. And snuggle back into his blanket.
I know he will leave soon. He doesn’t like to be awake after 8:30 pm. His internal alarm clock his strong.
One day maybe. Who knows.
I’m so happy when he’s near. When he joins us.
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.
