Your cart is currently empty!
Why I Appreciate My Son as One of the ‘Unique Kids’
Once, when my son was about two years old, a friendly stranger referred to him as “a little weirdo” while he was busy embracing his silly side. Although her comment was wrapped in warmth, it threw me for a loop. Fast forward nearly two years, and I’ve come to cherish my son’s quirky nature. Kids like him—those who dare to be different—are the ones who truly understand the essence of authenticity.
He struts through the grocery store in his Batman costume without a care in the world, completely unbothered by what anyone thinks. If he does consider others’ opinions, it’s likely because he believes they see him as nothing short of a superhero. No doubt or insecurity to be found here!
With only a pair of goggles on, he zips down the street on his bike, sweatpants hiked high, fully convinced he’s a hero in action. And that tutu my sister gifted him for Halloween? He insists it’s his, twirling around and showing off his dance moves for hours on end. I adore this age where he balances just enough self-awareness with pure authenticity. He seeks approval, sure, but remains unyieldingly himself.
In a world where conformity often reigns supreme, I find myself questioning its value. Acceptance? But at what cost? Is blending in really the key to likability and success? I’m beginning to see that our differences are actually our superpowers, the qualities that make life colorful and intriguing.
The individuals I admire most are those delightful “weirdos”—the ones who flaunt their uniqueness and don’t shy away from being different. They don’t need validation from others; they trust their own instincts. Such authenticity commands respect instead of ridicule. It takes guts to be unapologetically yourself, and that kind of rarity attracts people.
Honesty is a hallmark of authentic people. Whether it hurts or not, I appreciate the truth. My son, for instance, has no qualms about telling me, “Mama, you don’t look pretty with your hair like that.” Sure, I might tear up a bit, but I appreciate his straightforwardness.
My partner, Jake, shares this trait. He doesn’t sugarcoat his thoughts; he tells it like it is, which I value more than polite pleasantries. I look for this quality in friends too. One of my closest buddies is refreshingly honest, saying, “Come over, but leave by 5 so I can enjoy family time.” Her straightforwardness allows me to relax, knowing she’s not acting out of obligation or expectations.
My son, now three, expresses his likes, dislikes, and feelings with a confidence that I admire. As someone who often struggles with people-pleasing, I hold his ability in high regard. While being nice is commendable, I now see the importance of bravery and sincerity. I believe these unique kids have valuable lessons to share with us.
My son beautifully embodies both a desire to please and a commitment to being himself. My job is to nurture this balance as he grows. I want him to be both empathetic and self-assured. Through the admirable people in my life, I know that kindness and fearless confidence can coexist.
I hope he continues to rock his cowboy boots with shorts without a hint of worry about others’ opinions. If he can keep marching to the beat of his own drum, he’ll not only embrace self-acceptance but also become a source of inspiration for others.
Now, when I think back to that moment when someone called him a little weirdo, I feel a sense of calm. If being a weirdo means celebrating one’s individuality, I hope he remains just that.
If you’re curious about journeys like these, check out this insightful post on intracervical insemination. For those interested in home insemination, Make a Mom is a great resource. And for more information on infertility, the CDC provides excellent insights.
Summary
Embracing the uniqueness of children, especially those dubbed “weird,” is vital in fostering authenticity and confidence. Rather than striving for conformity, we should celebrate individuality, which ultimately leads to genuine connections and self-acceptance.