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Different Is Interesting by Mia Thompson
You could say my kid is a bit quirky. When he was just one, he developed an unusual fondness for these fuzzy snow boots. I mean, he wore those things all through 2009—even in the summer, paired with shorts and no socks. Let me tell you, those little baby feet could clear a room!
Eventually, he moved on to a pair of fireman rain boots that a neighbor lent us. He loved being prepared for rainy days, which led to countless puddle-jumping adventures between the ages of 2 and 3. But his quirks went beyond just fashion.
One day, I opened his toy box only to find it nearly empty. It took me a while to figure out that he had packed all his toys into various backpacks. He would carry them everywhere, sometimes even falling asleep with them on his back. To this day, he still has a knack for organizing his bags.
However, when he got sick, those little quirks became more pronounced. What used to be cute habits turned into overwhelming compulsions. It was like his mind was filled with persistent nudges that demanded attention. And while he finds relief in completing these tasks, he also worries about what others think, especially when it comes to his OCD and tic disorder, which manifests in repetitive movements and sounds.
Luckily, he’s learning to manage it better. Thanks to his cognitive behavior therapy sessions and some significant changes in his life, he’s finding ways to cope. This journey has its ups and downs, but it’s also a beautiful process of growth. I can’t help but admire how he navigates through his challenges.
He’s got a depth of understanding that many kids don’t have. He contemplates life’s bigger questions and expresses more affection than most. He lacks a filter, which makes him both honest and charming.
Second Grade Adventures
Recently, he started second grade, and on just the second day, he came downstairs with his shirt on inside out and backwards.
Me: Oh, so you’re doing that again?
Him: Yeah, I like it this way.
Me: You know people might ask questions, right?
Him: Maybe, but I think it will be fine.
When he got home, he had flipped his shirt right-side out but left it inside out.
Me: Oh, you changed?
Him: I got tired of the questions. Everyone thought I was confused, but really, it was them.
He’s right. He understands himself well; it’s the rest of the world that struggles to keep up. He’s the one who breaks the mold and challenges the norm, which makes him fascinating to those around him.
The Sock Chronicles
Now, about those socks—he’s never worn matching ones. It started when he was a baby, and even during a brief phase in kindergarten when I tried to maintain some control. He would unfold the pairs I matched and pick two random socks. Now, he’s a bit more selective—at least one has to be tall, and he prefers bright patterns but never boring white ones.
In fact, other moms have thanked me for making their laundry easier since their kids now refuse to wear matching socks too. You’re welcome, but it’s all him!
Curious about his sock choices, I asked him:
Me: What’s the deal with the socks?
Him: They don’t match.
Me: I know that. But why?
Him: Because everything in life doesn’t need to be exactly perfect. It’s okay for things to be different. Different is interesting, and I want an interesting life. Plus, I can never find the matches anyway.
At that moment, I couldn’t hold back the tears. I feel so lucky to have him in my life. I asked him how he felt about being my son.
Me: I’m so happy you chose me for your Mommy.
Him: I didn’t. God sent me because He knew we’d be good together.
Can’t argue with that. If you’re looking for more insights on this journey, check out this post about navigating home insemination, or for a deeper dive into pregnancy and related topics, visit Healthline. And if you’re interested in home insemination kits, check out CryoBaby’s offerings.
In summary, my child’s quirks make him unique and interesting. He navigates life with a perspective that challenges the norm, and while it can be tough at times, it’s also incredibly rewarding. He’s learning to embrace his differences, and as a parent, I couldn’t be prouder.