Four years ago, we were introduced to World Down Syndrome Day (see picture). I did not think much of it at the time, but my wife did. She ordered custom tee-shirts, bought blue and yellow candies and tied them up with blue and yellow ribbons. Our kids took these candies and goodies to their classes. My wife stood in front of the local super market and passed out World Down Syndrome Day goodies.
Honestly, I was kinda like, “What’s the big deal?” But there was no slowing her down. I was worried she was going to dress me up in a sandwich board and make me walk the mall proclaiming the day belonged to Down Syndrome! Luckily there was no time for that because blue and yellow balloons and streamers needed to be splattered throughout the house. Cake and ice cream had to be obtained as well as all kinds of party supplies in the proper Down Syndrome colors.
Look, I wasn’t the Ebenezer Scrooge of Down Syndrome Day, but come on! This was too much. My wife was going overboard and taking me and the family with her. I could see it meant a lot to her, so I went along. And along we went to the local Down Syndrome Day Festival. I did not really want to be there, but what the heck! Right? My kids were having a good time so I’ll play along.
An hour of going through the motions went by, and a funny thing happened. I began to have a good time. It wasn’t because the activities were fun or I got to see my kids laugh. I started to feel a sense of belonging. Our Eli, who has Down Syndrome, was 10 months old. We hadn’t met many families in our new community nor did we have any experience with anyone who had Down Syndrome other than our own kid. But interacting with these special people and those involved with Down Syndrome really helped me see what a special niche I belong to.
Hats off to you Eli! For bringing our family into this amazing community! And hats off to you, Robin, for getting out of your comfort zone and dragging me along as we embrace this day! I cannot wait for March 21st!
