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...]
For days when there is nothing to say…
There are days when I feel like there is nothing to say. Today is one of those days. You know the feeling… searching for words to wrap around your experience… and somehow coming up short. Today is one of those days. I am sitting looking out my front window. The house is still quiet. All I can hear is the honking of some bird outside and the click-click-clicking of my fingers on the keys. There … [Read more...]
In Search of Stability in the Storms of Life
Have you ever walked along the shoreline as a storm approached, staggering through churning waters trying to get a foothold as the sand shifted with each step? When you are the parent of a child with a special needs, life can feel like walking alongside a stormy sea. You are always adapting, always reacting and ever alert to make sure your child is safe. Most mornings, you never quite know what … [Read more...]
The Source of Our Joy
I always pray before I write for this blog to see if there is something God wants me to specifically write about. I really feel impressed that there are many who are reading this, who are struggling under the weight of heavier than usual burdens right now. The winter months can be difficult. There has been so much extreme weather in many parts of the world, and it's been a severe season with … [Read more...]
Autism Answered
The park. Thanksgiving dinner. Church. Dinner with friends. The waiting room at the therapist's office. The waiting room in the doctor's office. These are just a few of the places and events where I have had the exact same conversation with countless people. I don't fault them for striking up this conversation and, in fact, I am glad they are asking questions instead of silently … [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...]