The Bigger Village...Bigger Is Better

   I was talking to an autism mom that I know today. She told me about a mom and son that she had run into about a hour before. It was in a convenience store and the little boy was on the floor having a meltdown. The little boy was recently diagnosed as autistic. Well meaning strangers were trying to step in, as they do. The women that I know was running interference for the mom and boy. 

   As the story was being retold to me I began to feel what that mom must have been feeling. My chest felt tight and I am pretty sure that my heart broke a little. I even caught myself as my eyes teared up. Every time that I see or hear about another family early in their journey I want to stop and hug them.

   I wish that I could share my knowledge and experience with them. More than anything in this world I want them to know that it will be ok. 

   Those parents who are newly thrust into a world filled with a fresh set of unknowns have a lot of work ahead of them. I am not going to lie, it won't be easy and there will be a lot of mistakes...Oh, so MANY mistakes. I promise that it will be worth it when you see your child make even the smallest bit of progress.

   A very wise mom, who is no longer with us, once told me during a VERY difficult time that it would get better. Dawn's son is older than mine and we were talking about elopement... I didn't believe her. To me it was more likely that the Easter Bunny would walk up to me and give me ten million dollars. It took a few years, I was wrong and he has made it. Yay!!!

   Talking with other moms has made a big difference for me and I still need to be reminded that I am not alone. If you are reading this and are new to this world remember that it takes a village to raise a child. Your village just got a whole lot bigger and we will have your back.