We are in a big transition season in our life and it is giving me all the feels! With every new season with our son Sam we are challenged in new ways but also the new seasons bring new joys and new moments of pride. As hard as this road can be at time, it is also so equally rewarding. Being Sam's mom is one of the hardest and best things I have ever done. Here are 10 ways I have changed since I became his Mom!
Resilience: He’s made me more resilient. By watching the battles he faces, it has made me stronger and more resilient in my life too. Often when I anticipate something is going to be challenging for him- he always rises to the occasion! It doesn't mean it isn't hard for it, it just means he is motivated to take on that challenge! I always say if he can, then I can!
Empathy: Because of him I have a deeper understanding and compassion for others' struggles which has created deeper connections with people. I have created some of the best relationships since becoming his mom because I am a way more understanding and empathetic person.
Patience: I would say that patience isn't a quality I was given and Sam tests that every single day! Working through tasks that may come easily to others can require extended effort and perseverance, he never ever gives up and while it takes him longer to achieve things the result is always worth the wait! He has taught me to slow down and enjoy whats right in front of me instead of always rushing to the next thing.
Adaptability: We have had to become incredibly flexible and adaptable since becoming his parents. We are much better at navigating obstacles. He has made me incredibly resourceful and even scrappy at times which has really come in handy with all the advocating we have to do for him and our other children.
Appreciation for Small Wins: Ever since Sam was born we have learned how to appreciate the small things. He works so hard to do the things that come so easily for all of us, and that kind of dedication is something we admire about him! He has taught me how to celebrate the little things, for they really are the BIG things!
Different Ways of Learning: He has shown me that there are multiple ways to understand and engage with the world. When you are around him you cannot help but smile and feel is infectious joy. Even if he isn't having a conversation with you, you can feel how happy and smart he is. We have learned sign language and also learned all of his non verbal cues too. He has taught us that not speaking isn’t the same as not talking!
Acceptance and Inclusivity: His presence has encouraged me to embrace diversity and inclusion and be more open-minded and that is true for all situations. What we have experienced with Sam has really opened a door to the disability community that we wouldn't have had other wise. It has really made an impact on our older kids too and in turn they are more accepting and understanding of others differences.
Joy in Simple Things: He reminds me to find joy in the simple moments and to cherish the little things. Because of him our life is immensely more joyful and filled with so much more happiness. He has a brings joy to everyone that meets him.
Unique Perspectives: He has required me to really think outside the box, to see things through a different lens. Because of him we have truly gained perspective on what really matters and what doesn’t! When you have gone through really hard times like long hospitalizations and ambulance rides, it really puts into perspective what is important and what isn't,
Unconditional Love: To be loved by Sam is the greatest feeling in the world. He loves BIG. His unwavering affection and need for hugs and connection is the best feeling in the world.
Our little world changer has made our life immensely better and the JOY we feel being his parents far outweighs the hard roads ahead of us. But I didn't always feel that way. I remember after we found out he had Down Syndrome we only saw all the obstacles. If you are navigating a new diagnosis I understand your fears and worries, but I also want to tell you it will get so much better. Your child will change you in ways you didn't think were possible! How has your child changed you as a mother, a person and parent? I would love to hear from you!
Rooting for you,
~ Sara
special needs parenting, personal growth, special needs mom, life changes, parenting journey, special needs family, motherhood transformation, special needs awareness, parenting lessons, personal experiences
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