Happy World Down Syndrome Day!

If you've followed this blog for a while you probably know that 3-21 is World Down Syndrome Day. Why do we celebrate 3-21? People with Trisomy 21 have three copies of the twenty-first chromosome; that little something extra created at conception also creates the familiar characteristics of Down syndrome. Down syndrome is the most common of all trisomies. It's important to know that Down syndrome is not a disease or a sickness or a disorder. The majority of people with Down syndrome and their loved ones say they enjoy happy, meaningul, and fulfilling lives. 

We love celebrating 3-21 and all that makes our little guy unique; but the reality is, he's living every day life right alongside us. And honestly, we don't have a lot of time to make a big to-do mid-week. Today, Kaleb put in a full day at school, volunteered in chapel committee as he does every Monday afternoon, came home, played outside, did homework, played video games, ate dinner, and hopped into bed exhausted. Tomorrow he'll do it all again--school, play practice, dance, homework, family time. Life with Down syndrome is mostly just life. 

In lieu of a long post during this busiest of spring months, here's a list of twenty-one truths we're grateful we've learned and get to practice living, though not always perfectly. These truths aren't unique to living with a disability. They're truths that can be learned in many ways, but being part of the disability community has been our family's personal journey toward embracing them.

1. Our differences are beautiful, but also...

2. People with disabilities aren't that different. Like everyone else, they have unique abilities and challenges.

3. Our differences make us whole. They strengthen, rather than diminish, us.

4. It's okay to learn and live at your own pace.

5. It's okay to take up space in the world in unexpected ways.

6. When in doubt, DANCE.

7. A single smile can make friends out of strangers.

8. Sometimes you DO need a hug. (Even when you weren't looking for one.)

9. It feels great to do hard things.

10. It's okay to need help. It's even better to ask for it.

11. Your presence is needed. Everyone has something meaningful to offer their communities.

12. Everyone deserves a place at the table. EVERYONE. 

13. It's okay to ask honest questions.

14. If a game doesn't work for some of the people in your group, change the rules! (Not the people)

15. Failure isn't something to fear. 

16. Embarassment is normal.

17. Both keep us humble.

18. Laugh at yourself. Often. :)

19. Joy. Love. Contentment. These aren't just good feelings. They're choices that grow good feelings.

20. The life you've been given can be hard and beautiful at the same time.

21. Down syndrome is a life worth living!

On this day and every day, we want to shout the worth of people with Down syndrome. Happy 3-21, friends!