When I was born and you found out how I was, Mommy, thank you for having me When I was born and you found out how I was, Were you very shocked, dear Mommy? I’m sorry. You were worried, weren’t you? After all, I am a bit different from other children. But look ! I’m also real cuddly and warm, Even if I’m still very small. And look! See how eager I am to live, How I’m embracing the whole would! It’s by no mistake or accident that I was born this way. Nor is it in any way an atonement for some past deed. There’s a deep reason why I’m different. Do you find me strange to be saying such things? Well, this is what I mean: my body is a part of me, But not all of me. The real me is within, Breathing life into this body, making it move. From the beginning, I knew. Before I even took from inside you, Mommy… I knew how my body and mind would be . Not only that , I knew how I would spend each day, And what kind of life I would have. I knew everything, Mommy, and I chose you. You were the best Mommy for a child like me, on the way to a life’s challenge lying ahead. Because you are a loving, such a truly loving person, Who could accept me for what I am. This special bond between us: I think you’ve felt it too, in your heart. Yes, this is a crucial challenge for me! I chose to see what it’s like to live in this world with a handicap…With this body, I’m set to discover just how much I’m capable of. It’s hard to explain, but the truth is I desired to be born like this. So don’t ever blame yourself again, dear Mommy. In fact, I want to say “thank you”! Thank you for having me as I am…. For me, what counts is how I live each moment of my life. Common events and daily routines won’t be easy at all for me. But undertaking them will be very fulfilling. I may not be able to do what other children do so easily. But look, Mommy! Bit by bit, I’m growing, too! I know you can see the difference. My future achievements may be small. But nothing can take the place of the joy we will fee what I, with this body, Finally master some small skill. By living to the utmost, by giving life of my best, There are things I can show everyone. The wonder and thrill of living and loving… Wouldn’t it be good if you and daddy, my brothers and sisters, and all of our friends could experience that, by watching me? Another important goal I have in this life is to let the world know That there are lots of people like me. People who need special care and love from those around them. But, do you know what? There’s not one living person in this world who isn’t handicapped in some way. Little babies, young kids, grown-ups, old people. Different faces, different traits, different standpoints in life. Nobody is born perfect. That’s right! We are all born handicapped, Because that’s how we see the differences in each others, And get to learn many things. Mommy, look at me! Here I am, as I was made to be. Look, and don’t fear the future! Don’t give up! Whatever happens, it will be all right. Things come to us with a purpose. Nothing is meaningless. Believe in the big, big, hidden power. Be serene in accepting this state. If things get hard, break away for a while. You’ll see things you weren’t able to notice before. Even in pain, you’ll find comfort and joy, beauty and salvation. Don’t worry. Let things follow their course. Of course, I’ve got my limits. There will be times when moan, cry, get angry, and lost patience with myself. But all the while, there will be another me, watching over myself from a detached place, deep inside. Just like you, Mommy. Even as you grieve and fret, There will be a presence inside you That encourages, solaces, or just watches you lovingly. So you see, you’re not alone, not ever! You don’t have to shoulder the load by yourself. I believe in you, Mommy. It may be terribly hard at first, but Mommy, in time you will change. For my sake too, you will grow strong and brave. You will meet any hardship steadfastly, with resentment. By having a child like me , you will come to know the true meaning of love, see the true beauty of life, be truly thoughtful of other people’s feelings. This great misfortune that befell you and me…. Why, it will turn out not to be a misfortune at all, but an unimaginably wonderful drama that touches us and all our friends! Listen to me, Mommy. Don’t ever be ashamed. Please live your life with pride. The would has its own rules of competing and comparing. But my world, where I live, is a kinder, gentler place. You and our friends will get to know my world, too, little by little. The important things is this: We are alive, you and I. Let’s not brood over the past or worry about the future. Live with me, Mommy, day by day, moment by moment, Sometimes thoughtfully, sometimes joyfully. Mommy, thank you for having me, for giving me the gift of life! Daddy, thank you for loving me as I am! Let’s share a lifetime of special, beautiful moments!