Happy 7th Birthday, Benji!
Seven years ago, my world changed forever when I held my sweet boy for the very first time. Today, as we celebrate your 7th birthday, I can’t help but think about just how far you’ve come. You have taught me so much in these seven beautiful, messy, extraordinary years.
From the Beginning
The early years weren’t always easy. There were moments of uncertainty, long nights of worry, and countless appointments where I prayed for clarity. When your autism diagnosis came, I felt a deep grief. I also felt a strange relief. Finally, the world was beginning to have words for what I already knew so deeply in my heart. You weren’t broken. You weren’t behind. You were—and are—exactly who you were meant to be.
Watching You Grow
This past year especially has been incredible to witness. You have gone from nonverbal to speaking in your own way. You have moved from avoiding interaction to creating connections. Your progress leaves me in awe every single day. You still use gestalt language, your words sometimes sound like “jargon” to others, but I hear you. I hear your humor, your creativity, and your huge, tender heart.
You amaze me with your memory. I am impressed by your love of big cats and cars. Your imagination captivates me. Your curiosity about the world is inspiring. You’ve shown me that milestones don’t have to look “typical” to be worth celebrating—they just have to be yours.
What I’ve Learned From You
Benji, you’ve taught me patience, resilience, and the beauty of slowing down. You’ve taught me that there are a million ways to communicate, and that love doesn’t always need words. You’ve taught me that joy can be found in the simple things. It is a splash pad on a hot summer day. A car lined up just right. Or the laughter that comes when you notice something silly that no one else has caught.
A Mama’s Birthday Wish
As you turn 7, my birthday wish for you is simple. May you always feel loved. May you always feel understood. Also, may you always feel free to be yourself. I hope you continue to grow in confidence. Find joy in connection. Never lose that spark that makes you uniquely you.
Benji, you are brave. You are brilliant. You are loved beyond measure.
Happy 7th birthday, my boy. Here’s to another year of adventures, progress, and unconditional love.
Love always,
Mama 💙🌈
