Simple Kindness: Fixing a Broken Cheeseburger

I couldn't help but smile when I saw this story on the evening news. The story has since gone viral. You can easily use Google to find multiple articles/posts about this story, so I'll just link to one such report in this post.

Basically, the simple actions and kindness of one Chili's waitress made all the difference for one family's visit to the restaurant. Arianna MacLean is a 7-year-old girl with autism. She ordered a cheeseburger while her family was dining at Chili's. When her cheeseburger left the kitchen, it had been cut in half- a standard procedure for all childrens' burgers at Chili's. However, when Arianna saw her cheeseburger, she thought that it was "broken" and didn't want to eat it. Arianna's older sister explained the issue to their waitress, Lauren. Instead of arguing or having a negative/dismissive attitude, Lauren agreed that the cheeseburger was "broken", apologized, and promptly delivered a new- uncut- cheeseburger to Arianna.

After staring at the cheeseburger for a few moments, Arianna then bent down and kissed it.

When you have a family member with an autism spectrum disorder, even the simplest family outings can be problematic. Sensory issues and social difficulties can make these outings stressful for everyone involved. Lauren's response in this situation was fantastic and should serve as a model for other employees in the service industry. Individuals with autism are different- not less. It's important that their feelings and thoughts are validated and treated with respect.

Aside from going above and beyond to make Arianna's dining experience an enjoyable one, Lauren has also become Facebook friends with Arianna's older sister, Anna. Providing exemplary customer service and making a new friend? All in a day's work for Lauren!

Matthew Lannon's Powerful Argument for Gay Marriage

Matthew Lannon, a 12-year-old resident of Rhode Island, delivered a powerful speech in support of gay marriage in front of the Rhode Island Senate Judiciary committee. For being in the sixth grade, he speaks with a great degree of eloquence and wisdom.

Lannon's parents- two lesbian mothers and two gay fathers- have been in their respective relationships for 14 years. As he described it, "My parents, and all the other gay and lesbian people here, just want to be happy." Interestingly enough, Lannon also happens to be the nephew of Rhode Island State Sen. Donna Nesselbush.

Surprisingly, Rhode Island is the only New England state that does not allow same-sex marriage, although LGBT couples do have the option of civil unions.

Kudos to you, Matthew Lannon, for having the courage to stand up and encourage people to "choose love!"

Perez Hilton is a Dad!

Image courtesy of Perez Hilton

Perez Hilton recently welcomed his baby boy into the world! The boy was born using a surrogate and, although born a bit early, is doing well and seems happy and healthy!

You can view more photos of the proud papa and his baby boy here.

Congratulations, Perez!

Build-A-Bear Will be Lighting it Up Blue for Autism Awareness!

Image Courtesy of Autism Speaks (Facebook)

Build-A-Bear has teamed up with Autism Speaks to celebrate Autism Awareness with a one-of-a-kind furry friend! The bears will be available in participating Build-A-Bear workshops across the USA on March 27th. From what I've heard, each store will only be receiving a limited shipment of these bears, so once they're gone, they're gone.

I know that many of us have varying opinions of Autism Speaks. I understand that- I also have issues with the way they approach the topic of autism, as well as their approach (or lack thereof) to individuals with autism. However, this... this is just cute. Wifey really wants to get me one. I'm not complaining!

If you would like to get ahold of this special blue bear, give your local Build-A-Bear store a call and/or stop by any participating location on March 27th!

Accountability: Meeting Adam Lanza's Father

CBS News recently aired this interview with Alissa and Robbie Parker, the parents of Emilie Parker- a beautiful little girl whose life came to a tragic end in the Newtown, CT massacre. Alissa and Robbie were able to meet with Peter Lanza, the father of Adam Lanza, the young man responsible for the school shooting that took the lives of 26 people- 20 children and six adults.

This interview brought tears to my eyes. Losing a child must be such a horrible thing to endure. Alissa and Robbie Parker are anything but full of hate and bitterness, however; their responses in this interview show us a strong couple determined to honor their daughter's memory by living for their family.

Just as a reminder, you can read Robbie and Alissa's blog for more information about their family: The Parker Five.