Sure do hope wherever you are is as beautiful as it is here in New Hampshire today. Seventy degrees, no humidity. Blue sky, singing birds. We’re patiently waiting for the tree leaves to catch up with the rest of spring around here.
Extra Forgiving & Mostly Happy
It’s been remarked a number of times on our Hudson journey how nice it is that people with Down syndrome are always happy. I could see how one might think that, because many of the wonderful people I know with Down syndrome are very joyful. But I just don’t agree that people with Down syndrome are always happy.
Both Hudson and his Auntie Lizzy (my sister) have lots of joy. But both are sensitive, have frustrations and disappointments too, like anyone else. Sometimes they’re scared or sad, often can’t articulate why. And while they’re not necessarily happy happy happy 24-7, they’re two of the most forgiving people I’ve ever met.
I can think of a lot of examples, but the most poignant one that comes to mind is Hudson’s quarterly blood draw to regulate his thyroid meds. It’s gotten to the point he knows when we walk through that door he’s going to get stuck with a needle. And yet he has no concept of why he needs a blood draw or why I’d regularly take him to a place where he gets poked with a needle. My assigned job is to hold him in the chair in a tight bear hug, one arm free so they can get the draw. It nearly brings me to tears every time. (Can I just say, I hate my job?) We’re thankful to have the kindest phlebotomist on planet earth, Janet. She also has a special needs son with a chromosomal disorder, and couldn’t be nicer or kinder to Hudson. But she has her job to do just the same. (And I have mine.)
Hudson screams and cries, tries to squirm away. And of course I feel terrible, horrible. But what always floors me after each blood draw, is how Hudson instantly forgives me. The same person who held him still to allow that needle stick, is the one he clings to, hugs, dries his tears on right afterwards. I’m so blessed by this sweet little boy and his extra forgiving heart.
Today I’m sharing one of my all time favorite video links about a wonderful man named Tim. It’s less than three minutes long. I really hope you’ll watch it because it will so make your day. I’ve watched it more times than I can count. It’s been viewed on-line over two million times. You’ll have happy tears seeing Tim and his big heart in action. I love Tim, his contagious joy, his hugs and his wonderfully supportive family. Hope this makes your day, and please share it and brighten someone else’s too.
Related post: Grace for Hudson
Sallie says
Absolutely amazing and inspiring! I am in a puddle of tears. Would love to visit Tim’s Place!
Allie says
Sallie, my friend Caryn just told me today that she took her daughter Caity (who has Downs) to Tim’s Place last summer and they had a wonderful visit and Tim was awesome! (She also said the food was good.) Such a great story.
Judy says
“Extra Forgiving and Mostly Happy” is so true for both Lisbeth and Hudson! As for Tim, “everybody’s beautiful, in their own way”. It is true that many people with Down’s have a special gift for bringing joy to others just by being friendly at unexpected times and in unexpected ways. Getting a hug or a happy “Hi, how are YOU?” at a Dunkin’ Donuts may be the only greeting some people will ever get that day…their faces light up with delight!
Allie says
I so agree! It seems to be the unexpected times and ways that are so endearing….XOXO
Aunt pinkie achor says
What an amazing story – moving and inspiring! Good for Tim!!!
Nancy Hammett says
Amazing post. Thanks for sharing.
Rosemary says
I love Tim! Thanks for sharing!
Tracy says
I remember how bad I felt too when my boys had to have a shot or blood drawn when they were little. Not fun at all!
I loved that video. What a wonderful guy. The name of the restaurant sums it all up! How inspiring!
There is a girl, probably 18, with Downs that works at my gym. She works so hard cleaning the equipment but always goes out of her way to greet me. The other day I looked up while I was doing a certain exercise and saw her laughing at me. She said that looks really funny. I said, Yes I bet it does look funny. Now when I do that exercise I always smile no matter how grueling!
Allie says
Tracy I loved your gym story. Her honesty is so endearing, and it’s true, we all look pretty funny exercising…XO
nancy mcmahan says
Makes one wonder why So many of us complain about things. Wonderful story about Tim.
Linda Jenkins says
Allie, as a mom I know how hard it is to follow a doctor’s orders all the while seeing your child in tears and hurting. And I have been blest to hold that same child, brush away the tears, and feel the child hold you so close because you are the most sacred protector he has. I wonder if the child will ever know how much you hurt to see them in pain and to be helpless to stop it. Tears are welling up as I write this; however, I am so grateful that God made me a mother and gave me the opportunity to experience such precious pain.
Tim and Tim’s Place are truly inspirations for all of us. Thanks for sharing this wonderful young man’s story.
Auntie M says
What a beautiful story of a courageous young man and his family. Reminds me of another special family.
Susie Mandel says
Amazing story!! Thanks so much for sharing it. And here’s to warmer weather in NH!!
Allie says
Thank you Susie, and can only hope that it will last!!!
Barbara Child says
Beautiful example of mixing one’s dream with perseverance and love.
Karen @ On the Banks of Salt Creek says
Wow. What a wonderful video of a wonderful guy from a wonderful family.
I want to work there.
Allie says
Me too, seems it would be a very uplifting place to work!
Carina Spring says
Thanks for this post. In every way, it was an up-lifting reminder that love gives us, and those around us, the strength to do and get through difficult things, and that same love can also help us accomplish wonderful things. I agree with the earlier comment – Tim’s place would be a great place to work! And as I head to work today, I will be inspired by Tim, and try to remember to treat those around me with warmth and kindness.
Allie says
Thanks Carina, hope you had a great day!!!