New Friends

As much as I tried to convince the tears to stay away, I couldn't help but break down sobbing after dropping Robby off at school. This year it wasn't fear or anxiety, I was simply overwhelmed with pride and love for him. Through a simple gesture, I witnessed the compassion and empathy that Robby freely and naturally extends.

While we were standing in the lobby of his school preparing to say goodbye and good luck, a new family entered. The boy looked to be about Robby's age but unlike my little guy, he had a look of terror on his face. His gait and limb indicated that he might be dealing with some form of CP, which I'm sure added an element to the emotions of his Mom. Her cheeks were stained with tears, and her eyes were red. My heart immediately went out to her because I have been there! Enrolling your child in a new school is an emotional roller coaster; the layer of a disability must make it even more arduous.

Without missing a beat, Robby went over to the boy and introduced himself.  "Hello. My name is Robby and I'm eight years old."  The boy gave his name, and said that he is nine.  Robby's face lit up and he said, "Are you in Miss Abeer's class, too?"  The boy looked to his mom who confirmed his teacher.  Robby, who at this point was grinning from ear to ear, replied by saying, "Well then, we are in the same class. I guess that means we're friends, too.  Come with me, I'll show you around." 

Robby took his new friend under his wing and the two went walking down the hallway. With the exception of subtly modifying his speed, Robby didn't miss a beat adjusting to his new friend's limp. The look on the new Mom's face was priceless. She had gone from being terrified to relieved within moments of the exchange. Robby did turn his head and call out to me before he turned the corner, "See you later, Momom. Try not to cry because it will hurt your stomach."

This year I didn't have a little boy clinging to my skirt hem, begging me to stay. He was eager to start the new school year and excited to make a new friend. Walking out of that school, I could not have been prouder of the person my little boy is becoming. On one hand it hurts watching him grow up, but at the same time I have never been more rewarded. I am so very lucky to be his Mom, and I am looking forward to the adventures that lie ahead.