Life and all that it contains is a Gift. There are many instances where this sure does not look like the case. And there are some occurrences I may never understand. But….I also realize I do not have the Big Picture. I have come to accept this. So with this understanding or lack thereof, I look at how my life might make the world a more gentle place.

A son with severe autism would probably not be anyone’s choice. That has been one of my life experiences for the last 38 years. Along the way, I have found peace with our situation. I accept my son & myself as we are, perfectly imperfect humans navigating our way through this life together.

He has taught me unconditional love, patience, compassion, letting go of expectations & accepting what is. I work at responding in kindness, regardless of what comes my way. Taking care of myself is NOT optional. 

Because of him, I have become like a tree trunk, the winds may blow, even fiercely at times but I am grounded & steady. Dealing with some of his past challenges had brought me to my knees and left me shaken. Looking at it now, I see that I have survived all this and flourished. I would have never thought that was possible.

There were gifts in every challenge I faced but I could not see them. I spent most of my time (decades) focused on the downside. When I finally took the time to look for them, they were right there patiently waiting for me and…. they had changed me.

With love and gratitude,

Jackie