Life Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Beautiful

I remember receiving our daughter’s diagnosis and saying to my husband, “We can do this – she is alive.” I didn’t know what “this” would look like. Neither of us did. But it didn’t matter. We knew that we would cherish each moment, that we would make the most of each day. And we do!

We’ve learned to look beyond professional opinions and predictions. This is especially true when they are made using words such as “can’t” or “won’t” or “never will.” When these statements are proven wrong, there is cause for celebration And we definitely celebrate!

We accept calculated risks and problem-solving as a challenge. We welcome and take advantage of opportunities to move from the impossible to the possible. With the right supports and high expectations, anything is possible.

We celebrate each moment, activity or vacation when seizures do not disrupt our plans. They bring joy. And if plans are interrupted, we accept the change with grace.

There is no sense in getting upset over things we can’t control. 

We accept personal growth and advocacy as a natural part of life. Ignorance is not bliss. And we like to live without the typical restraints of the status quo. We are creating a positive life path—one we define, not one the system requires.

So yes, life can be beautiful without needing to be perfect.

Perfection lacks error and mistakes. Perfection lacks opportunities for growth. Life has a way of teaching us to spread our wings, to get out of our comfort zone. And there lies its beauty and, also, its imperfections.

Parenting children with disabilities brings challenges and joys. Find your family’s path.