To the dad at the bounce park…
I don’t know you, but today your son took off with the ball my son, Cedar, was playing with.
My Cedar has Down Syndrome. Your son looked about the same age as him—so much bigger, so much faster—but instead of the usual chaos, something incredible happened. I smiled politely, preparing to get Cedar another ball, as I have done countless times before in similar situations. But then you did something I wasn’t expecting.
You came back with your son—and you didn’t just return the ball and move on. You sat down next to Cedar and your son and began to teach your son how to roll the ball back and forth. You showed him how happy Cedar was each time the ball returned, encouraging your son with patience and kindness. Cedar giggled and clapped with every pass. You smiled too, and I couldn’t help but watch in awe.
Your wife was nearby with your other children, and together we witnessed this beautiful moment of inclusion. You weren’t just giving a ball back; you were teaching, showing, and modeling how to interact with someone who is different. After some time playing, you even noticed Cedar’s shoe was untied, gently re-tied it, and gave him a high-five. That small gesture, so thoughtful and real, made my heart swell.
What you did didn’t feel like a routine “give the ball back and move on.” It felt genuine, heartfelt, and special. Thank you for teaching your child empathy by example, for showing that joy and kindness are what truly matter, and for making a lasting impression on both Cedar and me. I only wish I could have thanked you before you left. Parents like you give me hope—and remind me that the world can be a better place, one kind act at a time.
