I never could have guessed that being a special needs parent could be so lonely. Sometimes…perhaps often…life gets in the way of our best intentions. A child’s diagnosis often increases psychological stressors, therapy schedules stretch the daily “to do” list to the breaking point, and slowly the network of friends you had begins to fall by the wayside. The pressure of day-to-day parenting can … [Read more...]
I Can’t But God Can
I have heard this statement before but something tonight spoke to me deeper: I can't... but God can. Have you ever tried to do something on your own, but figured out after several attempts that you needed help? Do you go in circles worrying about the same things? Are you at your wits end trying to solve problems over and over again? Charlie and I I struggle with these things at times. I … [Read more...]
A RARE Kind of Love
There are so many things that caught me by surprise when I became a mother. I always knew I wanted to have children, but I was never really in touch with my expectations beyond that. I certainly never anticipated that I would become the mother of children with special needs. When our son burst joyfully into the world over 13 years ago, he instantly placed us in that role with the mere testing of … [Read more...]
Walk a Mile in Their Shoes
We’re embracing the month of “love” so I’d like to segue our thoughts to putting love in action as we show “compassion” - especially in the framework of those whose lives are often dismissed, ignored, disregarded, neglected, slighted, snubbed – those with special needs. Let’s ask ourselves a few questions to get started: Have I missed the opportunity to show compassion or love to someone … [Read more...]
Love Is A Gift
It’s February. The month when we officially celebrate “romantic love.” It seems like I had barely removed the ornaments from our Christmas tree when heart-shaped coffee mugs, paper heart doilies, and I-love-you teddy bears started appearing on department store shelves everywhere! Valentine’s Day: Russell Stover chocolate boxes, red roses, and romantic sentiments. Don’t get the wrong … [Read more...]
Go into Their World and Love Them Where They Are
I remember so vividly Alec's difficult toddler days. My son had less than a handful of words. The days were a series of one tantrum after another. I was a stressed-out mother on the brink of a personal meltdown of my own. Oh, yes, I remember those days. I loved my son desperately, but hadn't a clue how to help him. I obsessively scoured every piece of advice I could find from any expert … [Read more...]