Two weeks ago James asked his speech therapist to help him make a Thanksgiving gift for the family.   He wanted us to open it at dinner time.  I don’t have words to describe how we felt when we read James’ thoughts. All I can say is that after 12 years of not knowing his feelings the five of us were dumbstruck at the depth of love and understanding he is expressing.  First is the note he wrote to go with his gift.  The gift is a framed acrostic.

Dear Family,

I love you very much. Remember that when I hurt your feelings. I want you to know how much you mean to me. I understand how much I mean to you. I am grateful to be in this family.  

Happy Thanksgiving,

James 

Here is the Acrostic he wrote (entirely on his own initiative):

Time for family

Have group fun time

Around the table

Nice plates with food

Know I am loved

So very much

Great laughter sounds until bedtime

I love nights like this one

Very tender treasured moments

I understand how speaking matters to you

Nothing else makes you so unworried about me

Grateful I can talk to you now