Reporting from Spring Break: the place of unconditional love.

I have lots of disability observations I'll get too, but first, wanted to write a post about the one place I do find unconditional love and understanding: my family, specifically, my little cousins. I say little, one's 13, 14, and the youngest is 8(they're growing up so fast; I never understood what that meant till now). But they've taught me so much and every time I'm with them, it's both a reality check(they make me forget whatever is bothering me) and a lesson in hope(they believe, no matter what, that good things happen to those that deserve it). This last lesson is something I struggle with, having seen people go through things they don't deserve, but they still believe in so much. And their optimism is refreshing. But they've also taught me the following lessons, in no particular order: that its who I am, and not my disability, that they see and love(and they assure me everyone else does too); I'm happy to say their very tolerant and feminist, and their defense of me in public can be heartwarming, their outrage reminds me that fairness(to live, to love, to be who you are and have equality) is key when you're young, something we forget too often as we get older. Which is why I also believe that we could achieve world peace through rock, paper, scissors, my answer whenever there's a disagreement about who goes first or rides shotgun. I've also learned that their understanding about my need to sit up front is a BIG deal, one tolerated and understood through love.  They help me with my shoes and clothes with no questions, an easy rhythm that comes only from knowing each other our entire lives. They have a peanut "protocol" and never, ever, make me feel guilty for my food allergies, something that seems to haunt me. They argue over who pushes my wheelchair, see my scooter as a fun toy, not a problem, and tell their friends to shut up if we're with anyone else and they feel the need to comment. They've taught me, most of all, that love isn't something you can give all too often, its something you have to show. You have to be there when it's important to them, at birthdays, or at Christmas, remembering the game or lipstick they told you they wanted 6 months ago. This final lesson is something I always try and remember--that showing someone you love them, through thoughtfulness, is the greatest gift you can give someone you love. And though they probably never read this: I'm going to dedicate it to them and their good hearts. I miss ya'll more than you can ever imagine. Love you too.