When something heartbreaking happens in our life we may start to experience some shame. Especially if we thought we could have done something to prevent it from happening. Whether you are a new special needs parent or you’ve been on the journey a while shame always loves to come knocking. The enemy loves to build a wall of shame and put our pictures on it. Every time we see that wall, he wants to … [Read more...]
Saving Up the Hard Stuff
“So much will change,” they say, pointing to your swollen belly, nearly giddy with the kind of knowledge that only experience supplies. “Your life will never be the same!” I know, you think smugly. I’ve heard it, I’ve read it, it’s the mantra you mothers all repeat. But they’re right, of course. While things will change, many of those changes are expected: those that arise from the training of … [Read more...]
Prepare The Way
Some of us become parents by chance. Some become parents by choice. But no one I know chooses to become parents of a child with a disability. When that choice was made for us 23 years ago, our world instantly changed. There was no preparation, no training, no idea that anything other than a normal, healthy fetus was developing. From the moment Ben arrived, we were continuously given a laundry … [Read more...]
Letting Special Needs Kids Grow Up
Parked at a crowded curb in front of the middle school, I watch as my girls get out of the van, tie shoes, check hair in the side window, glance to see if anyone they know is nearby. I should drive away, I think. I should leave and make space for another family to unload their kids. But it's not just the parking spot. It's the admission my girls are growing up. They walk away from the minivan. … [Read more...]
Finding Your Anchor in Times of Change
A few weeks ago we moved from Pennsylvania to the Houston, Texas area. We’re in a new house, going to a new church, and starting a new school. My son James (who has level three autism) is missing his favorite pizza place, Hershey Chocolate World, and the familiar faces he saw at school and church. It’s been tough. He’s struggled with anxiety through these changes. He tries to control anything … [Read more...]
Preparing for the Test
In the midst of all we had going on with the newness of understanding we had a child with special needs: the emotions, the changes, the challenges, the sleepless nights, anger, worry, sadness, grief, joy, fun, tough times, hope for a healing, we heard something like this, “BEEP, BEEP, BEEP, BEEP. This is a test. This is a test of the emergency broadcast system. This is only a test. Had it been a … [Read more...]