I read a good blog post recently about a mother's trials raising a child with autism. The author was taking issue with those who claim autism is a gift and not a disability as she recounted how difficult their lives have become. | “I think this mother is selfish,” was my daughter’s first observation. “She thinks raising this child is about her, but it isn’t.” |
Entering the Maturation Fast Lane: What the Shift Looks Like
Our focus shifts to our child whose struggles may impact them for a lifetime.
- What language choices empower my child the best?
- How can I shield my child from unrighteous judgements?
- How can we, as parents, use our own transparency, honestly and vulnerability to both protect and advocate for our child?
- How can we obtain the best interventions in spite of our limitations?
The day will come when our children grow up and read everything we wrote about how difficult it was to raise them. They already fight self loathing and feelings of worthlessness; after all, according to the other voices in their lives, they do not measure up.
Our Children Are Worth Every Ounce of the Effort Expended
I won’t go so far as to believe the author of the post is selfish. In fact, we stand side by side facing similar hurdles, doing the best we can, and offering our insights to others. I stand in her defense, especially knowing she has written many posts ministering to the needs of her readers. | I won’t go so far as to believe the author of the post is selfish. In fact, we stand side by side facing similar hurdles, doing the best we can, and offering our insights to others. I stand in her defense. |
But additionally, I will take my daughter’s comment to heart, remembering that I am here to teach my children that they are worth every ounce of effort expended on their behalves. It’s not about me, no matter how much raising my children with hidden disabilities impacts me.