One of the most beautiful conversations I’ve ever overheard was between a mother and her child (who was in Stalen’s class) at preschool pick up.

Mom: I’m glad you had a good day.
Child: I made a new friend.
Mom: What’s your new friends name?
Child: I don’t know his name. He can’t talk. But he’s my friend.

I was meant to overhear that conversation that day. We often receive signs when we need them most.

It was a small preschool, I knew instantly that this child was talking about Stalen, my non-verbal autistic child.

That conversation planted a seed of hope. The hope that my son will make many friends who are accepting, loving and compassionate.

I saw so much possibility and potential in those words that day. Sincere words that were soaked in freedom from attitudes and abilities.

I continue to wish for a world where friendships are forged when a person knows all about you, but still loves you. As simply expressed in the words of a 5 year old, “I don’t know his name. He can’t talk. But he’s my friend.”