"Can you and I be friends?"
That was the first question you asked me when we met.
Such a simple question with so much to it.
I knew then that you had truly seen me.
You embraced all aspects of my being.
My kindness and intelligence,
My curiosity about your world,
My desire for meaningful connections.
You even saw the things that usually make others nervous,
My blindness and cerebral palsy.
You took in all of this and responded with love.
At the same time, I saw you, Teddy.
Your gentle warmth and calming presence,
Your sense of adventure,
Your wonder at life,
And your willingness to be there for anyone who needs you.
It felt like meeting an old friend for the first time.
That created a deep and wonderful connection.
I knew right away that my answer to your question was yes.
I could meet your friends and really be one of them.
We could all share adventures, songs and stories.
Being included feels good.
I am grateful to have you as my friend.
We can talk about anything,
Whether funny, sad or scary.
Then there are quiet moments that bring comfort and inner peace.
My favorite times are at night,
When you sing to me before I go to sleep.
A hug and a whispered goodnight allow peace to settle over us.
Being together like this,
Fully ourselves,
That is love.