Our ferry from Negros Island to Bohol Island was delayed for several hours, and concern arose for our ability to fulfill our commitment to speak that evening. Any changes could also impact the next day's schedules.

The journey before us involved a rough sea crossing. ​The two Dramamine pills I took were making me terribly sleepy as we waited ad nauseum in the hot, cramped, pre-loading staging area at the docks.

​As we headed toward the rocking craft to board, my travel companions began throwing out ideas for rescuing the sabotaged conference speaking schedule. 

• “Melanie could take tonight’s session while we sleep!“ 
  Me: “Ok.” 
  
  
• “Melanie could give up her plenary tomorrow to make up for lost time!”
  Me: “That works.” 
  
  (Peals of laughter ensued.)
  
  
• ​“Doesn’t anything ruffle your feathers?” one friend playfully chided. 

​​Not much.

And believe me, not getting frustrated is not in my “natural” temperament.

The truth is, raising children with hidden disabilities, precious wonderful children that are incredibly trying and who cause us to die to ourselves every...single...day of our lives, produces lovely fruit of patience, tolerance and perseverance. 

All of the peace I cried out for in my prayers during the most trying seasons of child raising, I have now, not because my babies are near grown, but because peace can be internal independent of agitators or circumstances.

You are not just molding your children. Your children are molding you, and its a beautiful thing. ​

​What I learned from my experiences and what I want to share with you is this: Your friends and family most likely won’t understand what you’re dealing with, at least not initially.

Eventually you will become an effective advocate for the challenges your child faces. But, first you must find your tribe.  

Your tribe are those who have gone before you and triumphed, while maintaining a positive and hopeful outlook.

Seek those parents and supporting voices who can speak into your life who share your values, and appreciate your children as they are, their non-typical beautiful selves.

It's not always easy to find those voices in our neighborhoods or even in our churches. 

We live in an electronically connected world today, giving us great advantages over parents facing the same challenges twenty years ago. Hashtags and Google searches can heart connect us with others who walk the same path.

​Don’t discount the power of online resources and relationships! 

An online community that understands the challenges faced by children who are not neuro-typical can stand aligned with you as you rejoice in your child’s abilities while acknowledging the unique challenges you are facing.