One thing that struck me the first time we ventured out with the cane was the attention we attracted. I never broadcast Gabriel's blindness when we are out and about,, but it is obvious now when we use the cane. I understand that people may stare, but it is definitely a different feeling. Mostly people smile as they watch Gabe. Afterall, he is super-cute!! It is also obvious that some people just don't know how to react to him.
I often wonder how other children will react to Gabriel once the time comes to send him to school. He actually tried to socialize on his own for the first time with other kids besides his brother. It was in the waiting room of his occupational therapist's office, and he heard three other children laughing and playing. With a little grin on his face, he walked towards them, but as soon as he got there, they were off to another activity across the room. Gabe listened and followed, and again was just a bit too late for the fun, as the other kids were off doing something else. I was so proud of him for trying to interact, but I was also very sad to watch this.
I am reminded on a daily basis what an amazing little boy I have. On more than one occasion other people have commented that Gabriel must be a lot of "work", and they wouldn't want to be in our situation. I'd rather not be in this situation either, but I only say that because I want Gabriel to see and experience all that the world has to offer. I have absolutely no regrets about having Gabriel, and he does not require a lot of "work". Yes, we have to attend therapies three times a week, and it takes extra time to teach Gabe certain things that other children learn easily by watching others. I also don't have the luxury of putting Gabriel in front of the television if I need a moment to cook or just take a break. But these things seem so trivial when I consider what an easy child Gabriel is. He has a sweet personality and has the patience to learn and be taught by us. An average two to three year-old is known to throw temper tantrums and be stubborn at times. This is something we rarely deal with when it comes to Gabriel. He spends most of his days with a smile on his face, being silly and sweet, and singing! In fact, as I sit writing this, Gabe is playing beside me, humming to his music! What I have realized is that Gabe was given a big challenge in life by being born blind, but he was also given the perfect personality to deal with it. And so we cheer him on! "Go Gabe Go"!