My fellow Autism parents, you were given these children—you. Nobody else. You were given these children because you are exactly who they need. You have the heart and soul to love them unconditionally, even on their hard days. You have the motivation and love to give these children everything they need—not everything they want, but everything they need. From dealing with therapists and teachers to dealing with doctors and insurance companies—you have the strength to wake up every morning and do it all over again, even when you are utterly exhausted. You have the smile your children crave and the gentle touch to make everything all better. You are their sunshine and their source of comfort. You are theirs, and they are yours. On the days where you are questioning yourself, remember this. You’ve got this. And, you are enough. So, slow down. Let go of the expectations. Let go of the need for perfection. Let go of the weight of others opinions. Let go of the fears, the worries, and the doubts that come with raising children on the spectrum. Look into the eyes of those children who you love so much and really see them. See the love. See the acceptance. See the wisdom. See the invitation to slow down and just be. Breathe. Inhale peace. Exhale love. Smile, relax, and enjoy. You’ve got this.
written by: Ashlee Viesca