A gift from a loved one…

The most positive thing a family member has done for me, is shown me the value of difference.

My son and mum both taught me that no matter who you are, what your strengths are, what you look like, how you communicate and learn, you are valuable and important and you have something to contribute to this life.

Everyone no matter what their ability, age, gender, size or anything else has something inherently amazing to bring to the lives of others. In todays society we value how much money you make, the size of your house, how many followers you have, how attractive you are… There is so much more to life and I am so thankful, that I learnt that at a young age from the closest people to me in my life.

You may not have the education others do, but can still teach the people in your life so much more than Maths and English. You may not learn in the same way, it may take you longer or you may never be able to understand how to write an essay or add and subtract but what you teach others about connection, patience and acceptance in a world lacking in all three is so much more valuable.

You may not look the same as everyone else in society and because of that you are ridiculed and shunned but what you can teach others about the value of difference, self worth, judgement and love is gold. When you step out into the world and embrace who you are, you are giving others the confidence to do the same behind you. You are crushing peoples stereotypes, judgements and fear about who and what groups of people should look like and what that says about them and supporting more accepting communities by doing so. It matters.

You may not be able to communicate your wishes in the same way as others but that does not mean that you should not be heard. You have the right to make decisions and choices about your own life and no one should override or disregard that. Shout and make your voice heard. Find your advocates and supporters and join arms with them. Show the world your views count!

You may not be able to move as fast or in the same way as others but that does not mean you should not have opportunities to do so. You have the right to the same access to fun, holidays, shops, transport and communities need reminding of this. So get out there and make a fuss, do it all and make them feel awkward when you can’t because your strength is paving the way for others.

When you have differences in todays society, everything becomes that little bit harder and more often than not a lot harder. You are constantly fighting to get the same freedoms, resources, access, conversations as everyone else. I am grateful that I saw that through being my mums ears and communicator and my sons everything, always support someone’s voice to be heard, you could be that extra bit of fight and strength they needed to keep going today.

Sometimes having one person who listens, smiles and actually helps you to find a way, is all you need.

Lets be that person today.

Give the person who is tired of the constant fight hope that sometimes, people listen.

But mostly lets just be kind.