Autism: Surviving and Thriving

Fourteen years ago my youngest 3 boys were diagnosed with autism within a 9 month span. Devastation and grieving followed. Doctors gave me little or no hope, but they didn't know me very well. I refused to believe that my boys were doomed.

My boys are now young men, adults with autism. They are thriving, but every day presents its turmoil and challenges.

My family: husband Mike, sons Ryan 23 yr, Nicholas 21 yr, and Cameron 18 yr. (Ryan and Nick have autism; Cam has recovered from autism.) Our oldest sons, Michael 34 yr and Stuart 25 yr, moved out of the house. Ryan has also moved out, and is still working towards complete independence.

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Do Not Be Anxious About Anything


Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ.

Philippians 4:6-7




Worry. Anxiety. Concerns. Problems. To all of them I say, "Ick." Who needs them? Nevertheless, we get them, whether or not we have special needs kids.




I know we can decide to be happy or not, but always being an optimistic eludes me. Sometimes screaming just is easier. Or being totally silent.




There are a few biblical passages or famous sayings I have found that help me get through those moments when I am less than good ol' Pollyanna. I try to focus on one for a few minutes each day, usually in the morning before the chaos begins. That translates into "before the kids get up". I am not a morning person, so I'm only up a few minutes before the herd.




I have had several moms tell me that the above quote from Philippians hits home. It's part of my "email signature" right now. I don't know how many people actually read it. I do know that some have found inspiration from it, just like I did.




So for today, it is still one moment at a time, trusting Christ will see me through. Therein lies peace.

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