In the wake of yet another horrible tragedy that occurred in our nation,  I stopped to read about the kindness of others after the explosions.  Instead of writing about all the things that Phoebe does not get, or is not aware of…I decided to write about others.  The kindness of others around us.  Phoebe is different.  Everyone around my family gets that.  It’s the kindness towards her that really makes me smile.

We have all been around people who make us uncomfortable.  (Yes…we all have)  We have all been around people who are “different”, “not average”, “unusual”, or whatever you chose to call it.  It’s the people who step out of their comfort zone to say “Hi Phoebe…you look so cute!”, or “How are you today…are you having a good day?”, that make a difference.  My family, and our large network of friends have all accepted Phoebe.  They know she loves to talk to kids, and ask the same questions over and over (and over) just so she can hear their voices.  They all know that Phoebe could tell them that her mother smacks her, and they just smile, and say…”NO…she does not.”  (I really don’t.  Really)  She could also throw out a swear word or two at any moment–just to see who is paying attention to her.  Most of these kind, thoughtful people have figured out to ignore it and move on.  They even help her tie her shoes, or pull-up her pants, when she knows I am standing right there.  Worst of all…they even show her the bathroom when those wonderful words…”I HAVE TO POOP!”, come flying out of her mouth at any given moment.  (and yes her pants may already be down)

To these people who surround us…we say thank-you for your kindness and understanding.  It’s not easy…I know. (but you make it look that way)

Special thanks to my neighbors who allow Phoebe to come over and play.  She won’t let me come with her–she wants to be alone.  I can’t even imagine what she says. 🙂

Kindness.  It’s contagious.  Try-it.