Thursday 24 March 2024 is a bit of a whirlwind. I had the whole day mapped out in my head how I would celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, down to the last detail – unmatched socks checked. But guess what? Life had other plans.
You see, today isn’t just about celebrating uniqueness and spreading awareness. Nope, in my country Trinidad and Tobago it’s also the day for those nerve-wracking national placement exams for secondary schools otherwise known as SEA. And let me tell you, the atmosphere amongst Standard 5 students and their parents is thick with emotions ranging from anxiety to relief to fear.
Throughout the day my focus flipped multiple times leaving me feeling like a juggler trying to keep all the balls in the air. How can I choose one over the other, which way should I go, I felt guilty having to make such choices.
But you know what, enough is enough. I made up my mind to somehow embrace the chaos, roll with the punches, and maybe even let go of that guilt a little. Because at the end of the day, life’s too short.
So, here’s the plan: I’ll still honor World Down Syndrome Day, maybe by attending an art show by a talented individual with Down Syndrome. And I’ll be there for parents dealing with exam stress, offering support, a shoulder to lean on and encouragement. Because in the end, it’s not about choosing one thing over the other. It’s about finding a way to make it all work – one focus shift at a time.
So, here’s to embracing the chaos and making the most of whatever life throws our way work the best way I know how!
In honor of World Down Syndrome Day
