All My Love

One of my favorite musical performers released a special song last week to honor a very special man. This gorgeous tribute by Coldplay's Chris Martin to his friend and neighbor, Dick Van Dyke, is truly the gift that keeps on giving. Let me explain.

At first, this felt like a love song to me.  Watch the video here and you can't help but feel romantic, nostalgic, and taken aback by the joy these men share for life and music. They converse about love and gratitude for career, family, and even the chance to grow old.  I was moved to tears watching clips from Van Dyke's extraordinary life and reminded of what a big part of my childhood he was. (Anyone else sing "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" and "Spoon Full of Sugar" throughout their formative years?!) 

The music video showcases Van Dyke's family members gathering to celebrate his 99th birthday on December 13. From the first time I watched it, I noticed a young girl sitting in a wheelchair off to the left of the legendary performer. Like mine, and perhaps yours, this family is "embracing another normal." I'm struck that this man who was omnipresent during my childhood just might understands the challenges of our adulthood.

Now when I listen to the lyrics and pay special attention to this aspect of the video, Martin's beautiful tribute feels like a love song to parents and their kids with special needs.  I don't care if that was intentional or not.  Appreciating the song through this lens makes me feel appreciated.  And I find myself singing and humming "All My Love" wherever I go.  

In the spirit of the season, I hope you'll watch the video and enjoy this beautiful song, too.  Consider it your holiday gift from Van Dyke, Martin, and little old me.  And because life doesn't always give us something to sing about, I also offer the following helpful links.  You never know when you may need them:  

• A great article from Exceptional Lives that provides important information about Social Security benefits for your child with disabilities.  
• Recent news coverage that makes me feel hopeful about the future of air travel for people who use wheelchairs.
• A short podcast offering ideas and inspiration for parents who want to create "forever housing" for a young adult with challenges.
• Detailed information on SNAP, a U.S. government assistance program designed to help cover food costs.