LOTUS notes
Live :: Optimistically :: Through :: Universal :: Struggles
3/23/2017 0 Comments #lotsofsocks :: March 21Every year on March 21st, I wear some fun printed socks to celebrate and bring awareness to World Down Syndrome Day. Down Syndrome occurs when a child is born with an extra full or partial chromosome. Down Syndrome is associated with delays in physical and intellectual development. Often times when we are not exposed to something, we do not understand it. Most Americans know of Down Syndrome, but do they truly know about it. I have to admit, I was ecstatic to find out that A&E was going to showcase a reality show (Born This Way) about young adults with down syndrome. What a great way to promote and educate the world about the journey of families of those with developmental disabilities. Watching the series for me was emotional! I laughed and cried with each episode. At the end of the episode, I would take some time to reflect and highlight the greatness of what I just saw. These young adults amazed me! Their life journey is not an easy one, along with typical life stressors, their young adult life was complicated with developmental challenges, and yet, they never let it get them down. Their quest for love, career and desire to be independent motivated them each and everyday. In the first episode, Steven, one of the cast members explained his experience, “I don’t have down syndrome, I have UP syndrome! I may have an extra chromosome, but I also have a big heart.” Honestly, the first time I heard him say it, I cried! His words were so profound! It was amazing and inspiring to me that someone who has additional struggles in life can be so positive about their situation. He didn’t ask for this and he had no control over it. Yet, he was optimistic and made the best out of the situation. And even though his struggles were harder them most, he was somehow able to focus on the positives in his life! Why can’t everyone see their life like Steven, we could all use some UP syndrome in our life! I encourage you to ROCK YOUR SOCKS, support World Down Syndrome Day and remind yourself to always have UP syndrome! What’s one thing you have no control over and could benefit from being more positive about? Don't want to forget how to be positive? Rock those fun socks, use it as a reminder that regardless of the struggle there is always an UP side. If you need additional inspiration, watch this following youtube clip or go to http://www.aetv.com/shows/born-this-way to watch full episodes.
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3/6/2017 0 Comments #luckywelivehawaiiOne of the my favorite past times is watching a gorgeous sunset on the beach. It allows me to stop, reflect on my day and on all that I am grateful for. As the sun descents I acknowledge how blessed I am. As the final rays disappear into the horizon, I hold my breathe and hope for that magical moment where I see the green flash. As the skies get dark and the air chills, I am reminded that tomorrow a new sun will rise. A new day, a new chance to make good choices, and make a positive impact on others.
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