What I Love Most About Down Syndrome

After I found out that the August baby in my belly was a boy, I couldn't help but think: Oh no, he might struggle in school. You know what they say about August babies! I might have to hold him back a year.

I started reading these articles that talked about how boys mature slower than girls and that the most successful people in school are generally born in September. I remember even talking to friends about my concerns. When I look back on all of that now, I can't help but laugh at myself and the needless fretting I used to do. Of course the fretting continued once I found out Elliot had Down syndrome, but suddenly it was no longer about his chance of academic success. It was about his inability to finish bottles, his heart defect and his future.

Which brings me to my point today: Do you know what I love most about Down syndrome? I love that through Elliot's 43rd chromosome, I have learned to appreciate every single step along the way. I have learned that Down syndrome is a gift that God has given me that allows me to see life through a different lens. No longer do I feel the pressure to be perfect. No longer do I feel like I'm competing in this big race.

Watching Elliot learn how to roll over, eat, sit and get up on his knees is a humbling experience. Through each of his milestones, I see God's work. I see God's hands hovering over my sweet boy. And the thing is, God works in every life whether you acknowledge it or not. When Adele hit her milestones, God was working and hovering too. It just all happened so fast, I didn't notice. Having a child with Down syndrome gives you the opportunity to pause, to celebrate, to appreciate, to savor and to learn.

When Elliot sits up tall, I go on an emotional roller coaster. I have to hold back my tears at times from the gratitude I feel not only because of a milestone checked off, but also at this gift God has given me. God is still working on me. He always will be, but I am so thankful that now instead of worrying about whether my 3-year-old can write her name or get frustrated over my 1-year-old wearing size 3-6 months, I can pause to breathe in the moment. I can celebrate hard work paying off. I can appreciate long-awaited milestones. I can savor my children's childhood in a way I never dreamed. I can learn what God wants for my family.

As I think back to that mom one year ago whose world was turned over, whose eyes were burning with tears, whose so-called plans were dashed, I just think about how far God has brought me. I never dreamed I would thank God for Down syndrome, but I do. I thank God for picking me for this journey and for allowing me to have the key to life shown so blankly in front of me.