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I wanted the world to see what I see
and now half a million people will. Half
a million people will see my daughter's
face and her contagious smile. Some will
read Happy Soul Project's message and
feel happy, others might feel a bit more
confident in their own skin and some might
even start to celebrate the differences in
themselves and in others.
Holding her under that billboard is a feeling
I honestly will never be able to put into words. I hope it has made up for the sadness and unintentional ignorance I felt when she was first born. I hope it shows her I'm trying to make this world a place where she feels special, beautiful, important, respected and accepted.I believe that a world that celebrates differences, that accepts and includes people for who they are, and learns to see people first and disabilities second, is a more beautiful one. A world that is better for all to live in, colored with differences that make it unique.
It's up to each and every one of us to change the world into just that. It's up to us to break down stigmas, motivate positive perspectives, see the ability in all, and respect and appreciate the value in everyone.
The message we shared on the billboard is hanging in Pip's room. I look at it everyday as a reminder of Pip and Happy Soul Project's purpose, to show others that "What Makes You Different is What Makes You Beautiful."
And while I initially grieved what was deemed a negative diagnosis at birth, I've come to celebrate it and Pip fiercely. I'm trying to do my part and share with others that having Down syndrome, glasses or heck, diabetes, doesn't mean something is wrong or broken. It's just different. And different is beautiful. Different is cool. Different is special.
I'm taking a stand for acceptance and inclusion because I want the world to see what I see. I want the world to see past Down syndrome, baby glasses and disability and into the beauty of differences. I want the world to see Pip.
Happy Soul Project is about striving to be grateful no matter what happens in life. It’s about accepting the life fate gave you, seeing the beauty in the challenges and the hope in the hardships. It’s about finding joy unexpectedly, becoming a kinder person & continuing to always have an open mind.
Happy Soul Project is about breaking down stigmas, changing perspectives and celebrating differences.
Happy Soul Project is about believing in all abilities, supporting each other and helping spread hope & happiness.
Happy Soul Project is about changing a bit of the world....With Pip and your help, it's about inspiring people to look at life a wee bit differently.
So thank you for supporting us, loving us, encouraging us and believing in what we are doing...