This post was written by Mike, an adoptive dad who bursts with pride for his children every day.
Like many of you, we watched Kodi Lee’s performance on America’s Got Talent last week through tears and celebration. But his performance meant something beyond deep and meaningful for every child with a special need, and their parents.
You can do anything!
You are not discredited or disqualified because you have a disability, or a special need!
You are equal to all human beings!
These were some of the thoughts that raced through my mind, as tears streamed down my cheeks, and my heart palpitated watching Kodi Lee’s amazing, inspiring, and breathtaking performance on America’s Got Talent last week. Kodi, who is blind, and has autism, left the four judges, including Simon Cowell, speechless with jaws dropped. He prompted new judge, and new parent, Gabrielle Union, to use her first golden buzzer.
Reading through the comments on YouTube and Facebook, many shared words like “Wow, didn’t see that coming!” or “What just happened? Not in a million years was I expecting that.”
It’s true, many were blown away and inspired. I was too, but for different reasons. For the past 17 years, I’ve parented children with disabilities. And in that time, I’ve watched them overcome, rise up, lead strong, and reach beyond the heavens, in spite of their disability. My children are heroes. They’re MY heroes! And they are going to do big things in this world. In fact, they already are. I’m moved every day at their beauty, creativity, and drive.
What Kodi Lee did through his spectacular performance was remind the world that, just because you have a disability, in no way means that you don’t have a place or a purpose in this world. You do! He reminded us that equality matters. He reminded the world to never judge a book by its cover. Kodi Lee is changing the world.
What did you think of Kodi’s performance on AGT? Share your thoughts in the comment section below this post.
