Updated: May 24, 2023
Originally Published: Sep. 27, 2013
I long to reside in a realm where my son, Jamie, is just one among many, each with their own distinct traits. A place where differences aren’t labeled as disabilities, special needs, or developmental delays. In this envisioned land, people’s unique qualities would blend seamlessly into the fabric of daily life, unnoticed and unimportant. Here, the celebration of individuality takes precedence over conformity.
The essence of this ideal world lies in the depth of each person’s heart—their kindness, empathy, and capacity to marvel at the simple pleasures of life. Imagine living in a space where joy can be found in the gentle sway of bubbles on a breezy spring afternoon, devoid of worries about deadlines, bills, or health issues.
I dream of a land where every individual can put down their phones and engage fully in life’s moments, following their children on whimsical adventures, like mimicking the flight of a wayward butterfly, embracing the magic and joy it brings.
In this land, skin color would be as insignificant as the shade of a person’s socks. It would be a haven for love, where couples unite and instantly become families, irrespective of societal judgments or governmental regulations. Here, the kindness shown to others would be valued above material possessions.
I envision a world where I can take my son to the playground and the focus is on his joyful interaction with a new younger friend, rather than the disparity in their language skills or play experiences. I wish for all of us to take a moment to revel in the happiness shared between two boys discovering an abandoned ball together.
Can you picture it? I can. I witness that joy and wonder in Jamie’s face every single day. He recognizes the magic in the world, inspiring me to rediscover that sense of wonder.
This land would allow me to view Jamie’s latest school photo without the burden of analysis. Instead, I would cherish the laughter shared with my partner when we first saw the picture and marveled at how mischievous and beautiful he looks. Rather than pondering if his expression signifies discomfort or if he might have felt overwhelmed, I would simply enjoy the moment.
I desire to inhabit a realm where empathy and awe are paramount, where our differences fade into the background.
The best part? This realm exists. It lives within us right now. We possess the power to mold our surroundings, our desired spaces, and our homes into havens of empathy and wonder. It begins with you, with me, and with our children. It starts with how we choose to utilize the next five minutes, the next hour, the next year, and the rest of our lives.
Tomorrow, when life feels overwhelming, take a moment to connect. Make eye contact with the boy who makes you uneasy. Share a smile with his weary mother, conveying the sentiment that we are all in this together. Your smile might be the very thing that reassures her of the presence of empathy and wonder. And it’s everywhere.
This article was initially published on Sep. 27, 2013.
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In summary, we have the opportunity to cultivate a world filled with empathy and wonder. It’s up to us to embrace this vision and spread kindness in our daily lives.