Choose Kind

These images were shared with my mom's Pre-First class. Love that so many connections were made.

My mom shares my story with her class this time of year every year.

Love it so much.

There is something so special about this age.

I was just learning to spell on my letter board at the age of six.

My mom says they are little sponges soaking everything up.

They made so many connections to me.

My love for The Braves, for music, for the beach.

Connection is my life’s goal.

They also asked many profound questions.

“How did Julia learn how to read and spell?”

“How did you know Julia had autism?”

“Why did God make it so Julia could not speak?”

Profound, right?

How do you answer a question I have asked myself repeatedly?

Why?

Why me?

Why so many others, too?

It could tear my soul apart if I let it.

Really lean into my family and faith when this thought creeps in.

Love the scripture:

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14)

I believe God has a purpose for my life.

And for yours, too.

My life is one of love and advocacy.

Until we all have a voice.

Until we all are given a seat at the table.

I will spell on.

I will fight for what is good and for what is right.

I am here.

So many of us are here.

To those little sponges out there:

Keep asking questions.

Continue to make connections.

Look with love in your heart.

Include others who are different from you.

Choose kindness.

We love the book Wonder at our house.

An inspirational story highlighting how differences can be beautiful.

This quote from the book resonates most with me:

“We carry with us, as human beings, not just the capacity to be kind, but the very choice of kindness.”

All of us have it in us.

Choose kind.