Joseph is a super cute 21-month-old boy (that’s almost 2 years old!). He was born a little bit different from other kids – his left arm didn’t grow all the way when he was in his mommy’s tummy. But you know what? That makes Joseph special, not less amazing!
Joseph’s Parents Are Heroes Too
Joseph’s mom and dad wanted the whole world to know something important: Joseph can do ANYTHING he wants to do! Just because his arm looks different doesn’t mean he can’t have fun, play, learn, and be awesome.
So they started sharing pictures and stories about Joseph on Instagram. They wanted people to see that kids who are born different are still incredible!
They also joined a group called the Lucky Fin Project. It’s a cool group that helps kids and families who have different arms or legs connect with each other. It’s like having a whole bunch of new friends who understand exactly what you’re going through!
The Day Everything Changed
One day, Joseph’s family went to watch a soccer game. The team playing was called Orlando Pride, and they play women’s soccer (which is SUPER cool).
But here’s where the magic happened!
One of the soccer players on the field was named Carson Pickett. And guess what? Carson was born with her left arm a little different too – JUST LIKE JOSEPH!
When Joseph saw Carson, something amazing happened. His eyes got really big, he smiled the biggest smile ever, and he got SO excited!
She’s Just Like Me!
Joseph looked at Carson’s arm. Then he looked at his own arm. Then back at Carson’s arm.
And suddenly, Joseph realized: “She’s just like me!”
His face lit up brighter than the sun! He laughed and smiled and got so happy he could barely stand still. He even showed Carson his arm, like he was saying “Look! We match!”
For the first time in his little life, Joseph saw someone who looked just like him doing something AMAZING – playing professional soccer in front of thousands of people!
The Best New Friends
After the game, Carson came over to meet Joseph. And you know what happened? They became instant best friends!
Joseph’s mom said they talked and laughed together like they’d known each other forever. Even though Joseph is just a baby and Carson is a grown-up soccer star, they had this special connection.
Carson understood Joseph in a way not everyone could. And Joseph saw that someone just like him could grow up to be a superstar athlete!
Why Carson Is So Inspiring
Carson Pickett isn’t just any soccer player – she’s a professional! That means playing soccer is her JOB. She gets paid to do what she loves!
And she does it all with one arm that’s a little different. She runs super fast, kicks the ball, plays defense, and is one of the best players on her team.
Carson shows everyone – especially little kids like Joseph – that being different doesn’t stop you from chasing your dreams. In fact, it might even make you stronger!
What This Teaches Us
Joseph’s story teaches us something really important:
Being different is not bad. Being different is just… different! And different can be AWESOME!
Think about it – everyone is different in some way. Maybe you wear glasses, or have freckles, or are really tall, or really short, or have curly hair, or need a wheelchair, or learn in a different way than your friends.
Those differences are what make you special and unique. There’s only ONE you in the whole world!