Being part of a team has been good for Jared's spirit, ours too. It can be difficult to have a child who is different than most children, so when they are truly accepted, words cannot describe how it feels. The wrestling team has been a good place for Jared. I was so scared when he joined the team last year, but many of the boys took him under their wings and gave him the chance to be on a team, to take the support AND the ribbing, the jokes and the bro hugs, as Jared calls them. Years ago, I would never have believed that Jared would wrestle, attend all practices and meets. But we had to let him go, because if we didn't, we would be doing him a huge disservice. Sometimes, in our efforts to protect a son or daughter with special needs, we risk stifling them, blocking their chance at all that life has to offer. I'm glad we let go. It has not all been easy, but it has been so worth it.
Adolescence is a time when one wants to feel a part of things, a sense of belonging-- and wrestling is creating this for Jared. It is so great to see him growing into such a fine young man-- kudos to you guys for giving him this chance to be on the team!
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