Sometimes they do

Sticks and stones may break you bones, but words will never hurt you.

But.  Sometimes they do.

As a parent, one of the hardest things to do is see or hear someone hurt/make rude comments about your child.  The pain stings so much harder and longer on you, then on the child.  I think with a child with disabilities, the pain is worse.  When it happens and your child doesn't understand that it is happening, it makes it worse.  But that could be because it hasn't yet happened to my 'typical' child.

Looks, stares, comments, whispers and just plain in your face rude....happens.  Sadly, it has happened with our daughter more times than I care to admit.  Even from friends and family.  Maybe I am the only one to notice.  So maybe I over-think things.  But, sometimes words hurt.

This weekend, we experienced our first Step Up for Downs walk in Minnesota.  It was...ok.  The amount of people there was incredible.  Around 8,000.  But it was too much for us to handle.  So, we didn't stay long.  We were about to leave with a so-so opinion of the walk.  But, really, who could be the walk we put together in Watertown?  Then, it happened.  A man with a rude and hurtful comment.  I am sure it was not meant to be hurtful.  Or rude.  Or did he even give a second thought to what he said and how it made anyone else feel.  Nor did he probably have any intention of saying or meaning anything hurtful.  But he did.

I was starting to come to terms with the fact that I will hear and see people being mean to my child.  But you have an expectation to meet other families in your situation and not have any of those thoughts or comments when around them.  They are the only people who know exactly what your situation is like.  Because they are in it too.  Before, I used to say and think things too.  Before, Kamalee, I admit to using the R-word, to feeling sorry for their parents, for wondering why their child was behaving a certain why.  So, I understand how people feel around us, when they don't know anything besides 'normal'.  But once, you have been around us and understand and know us...you no longer have a pass.  That goes the same for other parents of kids with disabilities.  You should know better. 

I am told I need to let things go.  :)  And I should.  But his comment resonated on me.  And I needed to vent.  I pray that he learns our struggles, through his own child and will become a more caring person.  Not for my sake.  But for his child's.   End Rant.  Insert Photos.  (p.s. I brought my camera, forgot a cf card.....so I have just a few photos on my phone)

Have a wonderful day!