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I'm sure it's overwhelming to attend events like that (I was stressed just reading about all the commotion) but what a gift - to be surrounded by families who get it. I hope S (and you) made lasting connections.

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Thanks, Julie. I'm grateful you get it. Yes, we've built some friendships from our craniofacial community.

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Ahhh another person who “gets it” the gift of being around others who understand without all of the explanations. Julie and Jeannie, I totally get this concept. It is a wonderful feeling not having to hide your emotions or reactions to things and feeling a real part of the whole, not the sixth wheel of a four wheel vehicle ( when even the fifth wheel belongs because they have a connection ie the spare tire).

I go to an annual seminar for military survivors. ( a grief convention) No body cares ( or rather they do care and check on you) if you start crying in the middle of dinner or in the middle of a session. There is an instant connection with others, ( a close family member or friend was a Veteran who died) the military and death. It breaks down conventional barriers you see the “real” of the people you meet. There is a huge comfort in that knowing you don’t have to worry or hide.

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I'm so glad to hear you have that community, Lisa. It's so important, especially for our military veterans. I felt most relieved to be around other, craniofacial families because I didn't have to explain anything. They just knew.

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Jul 27Liked by Jeannie Ewing

It's a 'disease' of the modern world ,the so -called 'normal' ones who have to follow the crowd like lost sheep without a shepherd .

If they could learn to become master of themselves and think for themselves and have the courage and autonomy to really SEE those with differences for what they really are ,instead of being consumed with hate and resentment -THE WORLD WOULD BE A BETTER PLACE .

CELEBRATING the differences disempowers this ignorance and raises the 'different ' ones .

I know because it's how I survive EVERY DAY ,with and for MY SON .

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Thank you for this perspective, K! We do need to have the courage to see ourselves honestly and acknowledge that differences are gifts we each bring to the table. I appreciate your reminder for us to do that.

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Jul 27Liked by Jeannie Ewing

You're welcome .

I do know and understand the joy my son gets when he is accepted (he isn't usually ) but he loves to belong and I get that .

It's just me ,I guess ,as a mother trying to make people change their outlook 🤗All the best with everything

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