People often imagine angels as figures from another world – shimmering, halo’d and extraordinary. But many of us discover, often unexpectedly, that some of the most impactful angels are simply people who choose to show up with kindness.
Living for the last 19 years with Jude, you certainly come to recognise these people quickly. I’ve seen firsthand how certain individuals bring light through steady, practical care, acceptance and gentle guidance. They don’t need wings or grand gestures. Their presence alone shifts the energy of a room, creates trust, and makes life feel more manageable.
A Small Circle of Remarkable People
Judey Jude has the most wonderful circle around him. People who go beyond their role. So so far beyond their role that they become part of your little world.
They take him out for breakfast, help him shop for treats, go to the park, play silly games and generally validate Jude’s existence. While these outings may seem ordinary, they’re huge to Jude. Especially so when these people are no longer a working part of Jude’s care system. They’ve sidestepped into the role of friend.
How many carers do you know who will rock up with a Halloween costume on a Friday night, ready to knock on random doors in their spare time? Or visit early morning and ensure Jude has had a bath before going out for breakfast?
I don’t know how to thank these angels. Nor do I think they realise the impact they have on Jude, and my, life.
Protecting Your World
As someone navigating Jude’s world, we quickly learn that the people surrounding us really matter. There is absolutely no space for negativity, disinterest or a generally ‘bad vibe’.
Safety and trust. Achieve these and Jude visibly relaxes in your company. Fail to pass his test, and there’s no coming back. And rightly so. Why should he ‘comply’ with people who clearly don’t want to be in his company?
But I’ve noticed that the people who are drawn to Jude are the nicest people. Like attracts like, isn’t that what people say? Jude is a kind soul and those with similar outlooks seem to want to be his friend.
A Quiet Kind of Grace
Jude is lucky that the angels in his life don’t seem to do it for personal gain. Though they always let me know how much they enjoy their time with Jude, he’s the one who benefits the most. I don’t think he realises how lucky he is with those who have crossed his path.
You certainly notice the angels when faced with people less inclined to care, accept and have fun. To them, he isn’t just someone to push through the day and tick off each ‘to do’. He’s a human being with potential and a fulfilling life ahead of him.
Keeping the Right People Close
Not everyone will understand your journey, and not everyone needs to be part of it. But when you meet people who care deeply, who treat people with respect and genuine interest, they are worth holding onto.
These are the individuals who make everyday life better.
They lift burdens.
They make space for joy.
They help build a world that feels safe and connected.
In that sense, they are the angels we meet on earth.
What I’m trying to say is. Don’t accept just anyone into your young person’s life. They deserve the angels who want what’s best for them. Those who will fight to ensure their life is wide-reaching, packed full of experiences and mightily fulfilling.
