"To the Dad at the Bounce Park...
I may not know you, but your son took off with the ball my son, Cedar, was playing with.
My son has Down Syndrome.
Your son appeared to be about the same age as Cedar, but much bigger and more agile. I smiled politely and was about to get up to get Cedar another ball, as I have done so many times in this situation, but you surprised me. You didn't do what every other parent has done: return the ball, apologize, and then go play elsewhere.
No, you made my day.
Instead, you sat down next to Cedar with your son and taught him to roll the ball back and forth to Cedar. You saw how much my little boy loved this and your son seemed unsure, but you kept showing him how happy Cedar was each time he rolled the ball back. I sat back and watched. Each time Cedar rolled the ball to your son, you had your son roll it back. Cedar giggled and clapped. You did, too.
To the dad at the bounce park, thank you for teaching your child to interact with someone 'different.' I watched in amazement.
Your wife was nearby with your other children, and we all witnessed this beautiful example of not only inclusion but also how to set an example for your child on how to interact with someone different. After playing for some time, you noticed Cedar's shoe coming untied and gently re-tied it, then gave him a high five.
I want you to know that you made my heart swell today. I love that there are parents out there teaching their typical children by example, and I felt so happy.
This didn't feel like the typical, 'oh, give the ball back to the little boy who is different and then move on.' This felt genuine and special.
Thank you for what you did today; I am sure that you will also be raising world-changers, and I appreciate parents like you... I only wish I had the chance to thank you before you were gone.
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This story was submitted to Love What Matters by Dawn of Cedar's Story. You can follow her journey on Facebook and Instagram. Submit your own story here, and be sure to subscribe to our free email newsletter for our best stories."
