Each stage of being a special-needs sibling has its challenges and blessings. But you can help your typical children focus more on the blessings when you patiently guide them through each one of these stages.
Invisible Disability: Not Invisible to Our God
How Centering Prayer Saved My Life
Nothing I did as a mom seemed to help my son. None of the therapies; none of the love; none of the counseling—personal, marital, and family. Nothing could “fix” our son. But daily, as I sat and whispered Maranatha, Come Lord Jesus, the Lord showed up. He let me know that I was more than Joel’s mom, Matt and Justin’s mom, Wally’s wife. I belonged to God. I was rooted and grounded in God. My life had purpose. My true self began emerging.
How I Found Light in the Darkness
One night, around 2:00 a.m., I saw a Facebook post: “We’re having an awful night. Anyone else awake? Is it just us?” What followed was an endless stream of comments from mostly moms talking about being awake with ASD kids. Here was a space where we could be seen and understood, be heard and not critiqued, and could connect.
Saying Thanks as They Finish Strong
I can’t imagine the feeling when my son actually walks across that stage, when he is handed his diploma, when we get to take those family pictures with his cap and gown. I have said thank you along the way to each of his teachers, aides and therapists, but that day I want to scream and shout it! Here are a few ideas to say “thank you” to the helpers in your life as your child finishes strong.
