The Moment I Let Go (Just a Little)

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve shared stories about moments that reminded me how progress often shows up quietly, unexpectedly, and sometimes in the smallest of ways.

Two weeks ago, it was hearing Christian say “Kung Fu Panda.”
Last week, it was sitting down for a peaceful birthday meal as a family, no meltdowns, no rushing, just presence.

But this week?
This week felt bigger. It wasn’t just a moment, it was a mirror back to how far we’ve come.

This weekend, Christian had his second piano recital.

He walked in confidently.
He sat down at the keys.
He played his short piece.
And he shined.

No anxiety. No hesitation. Just joy and pride, in front of a room full of people.

And while he played just a few seconds, the real music, for me, was what was happening inside.

Because I realized something: he’s becoming more independent. He’s starting to find his rhythm.

All the fears Eli and I carried, about whether he could belong, whether he’d freeze or flee, none of them showed up. He did.

Watching him, something in me let go.

Not of responsibility.
Not of protection.
But of that constant, aching fear that maybe all this effort wouldn’t be enough.

And yet, it is. Slowly. Quietly. Consistently.

This recital reminded me that progress doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it whispers. And when we show up for our kids, with patience, with flexibility, with acceptance, we create the kind of foundation they can stand on.

I’ve spent years bracing for every meltdown, scanning for every sign of trouble. But moments like these remind me that the work, the exhausting, daily work of showing up, is paying off.

That’s my milestone this week. Not his.
Mine.

If you’re a parent who’s deep in it right now, waiting for the moment when something just clicks, please hear this:

Stay consistent. Stay close. Stay hopeful.

Because it does add up. And it does show up.
Even if it’s just 20 seconds on a piano bench.

P.S. If you missed the last two newsletters, you can find them here:

• June 3rd Newsletter: When Progress Looks Different → we talked about milestones, the “Kung Fu Panda” moment, and celebrating the small wins.

• June 10th Newsletter: A Special Birthday → sharing a meal together without meltdowns and capturing a family photo, huge for us!

P.P.S. If you’ve had moments like this, where letting go felt like the hardest, yet most important step, I’d love to hear about it. Your stories help us all feel a little less alone.

Parent Tip of the Week:

I know firsthand how unpredictable life can be.

Planning ahead is another way we love and protect our families.

I recently shared a carousel on LinkedIn about 5 reasons families with special needs should prioritize life insurance. If you missed it, you can find it here:

It’s worth a read, and maybe a share with someone who might need it.

📢 Important Reminders

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