I Am Grateful

"If you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism." It's a phrase most of us in the autism community are very familiar with; and it's an accurate one at that! While there are a few things that most people on the spectrum have in common (and thus it can be diagnosed), for the most part the way in which autism presents itself differs from person to person.

Over the last few months I've attended quite a few events put on by autism support organizations. During these events I've heard a lot about the different struggles that many autism parents have to deal with each day. Though Aaron's spectrum is quite challenging, there are many things I am grateful that we don't have difficulties with.

I am grateful that Aaron goes to bed at a consistent time each night, without issue, and stays asleep through the night.

I am grateful that he was potty trained by age 3.

I am grateful that Aaron is able to speak and generally communicate his wants and needs.

I am grateful that he loves affection, both giving and receiving it.

I am grateful that Aaron is able to attend public school with his peers (albeit in a specialized setting).

I am grateful that he can function in settings that many with sensory issues simply could not.

I am grateful that Aaron is typically open to trying new things.

I am grateful that he is eager to visit new places and ok with long trips to get to them.

The list truly could go on an on. Every moment that presents difficulties for us as a family comes with one that makes us realize that we truly are lucky. I try to remind myself of that each time we are in the throws of a meltdown or a tough day. It could be so much worse and, instead of focusing on how bad it can get, I am grateful to have a healthy, happy and engaged child.