Happy Mother’s Day!

A Wish for a Mother with an Autistic Child     

Many days of hugs and kisses for my child.

A few nights of at least six hours of sleep for my child and myself.

A spouse who is sensitive to my child’s needs as well as mine.

A spouse who will spend time with my child, who will appreciate him or her for who they are and not who he wants them to be.

A spouse who will give me time to take care of myself.

Fewer tantrums from my spouse.

My own mother and father telling me what a good mother I am to my special child.

My own brothers and sisters spending time with my child.  Encouraging their children to include and play with my child.

My own brothers and sisters not comparing my child to their children, but to appreciate this uniqueness of his or her autistic personality.

In-laws and in-law families who will not shun us because we are parents of an autistic child.

School administrators, principals and teachers who really care about your child, and don’t just go through the motions.

School administrators, principals and teachers that are sensitive to the uniqueness of each autistic child.

A God who is merciful and compassionate to our child and to us, so that on days when having faith is difficult, we can all be patient.

I have always kept this poem near my bathroom mirror for many years, especially in those first few years when our son was newly diagnosed. I hope other mothers today and everyday will find these words and wishes helpful. It takes determination, perseverance, and much courage and tenacity to raise a child, a teen and an adult on the spectrum.  Beyond hope. Happy mothers day to us all. -Kristy