Justified

When Micah was granted a wish through the Sunshine Foundation, we had a year to decide what we wanted granted. In that year, we talked about several options, and how Micah should choose his own wish, and how it was unfair that he couldn't talk to voice it. We discussed how cliche it is that families so often choose a trip to Disney, and yet Micah would probably love that. I mean, what kid doesn't dream in technicolor of going to the most magical place on earth?  What kid wouldn't love Disney?

And yet, is that what Micah would want? The boy is terrified of costumed characters, but loves amusement park rides. Disney would be appreciated by all our family, but was that choosing selfishly? Oh, the pros and cons.

We stayed by our decision, and I secretly questioned it right up until the day we left. Did I do this for Micah, or for myself? Once in Florida, there was no doubt that we'd made a choice that Micah was happy with. But now that we've been home for several months, and the magic is just a memory, I question again if we did right by our son. One trip, verses something like a pool that he could use year after year...

I have the Disney pictures on the computer as a screen saver. Micah will scroll through them ooh!ing and aaah!ing in appreciation. My desktop wallpaper is the picture of the family with Woody and Jessie. If I have a screen open, he will close it (without saving!) so that he can see the picture that makes him smile. I made a picture book of our trip. Micah will turn the pages and insist that everyone in the house look at this, or that, or even ask to have his picture taken holding the book up, showing me his favorite characters.

My concerns are completely laid to rest. Micah had the time of his life, and that's what granted wishes are all about. Being the parent of a nonverbal child is frustrating. Second guessing what he wants is routine. But it's always nice when your kid tells you that you did the right thing.