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For example, when we first were informed of Ian's diagnosis, my wife and I were devastated. But, once
initial shock wore off, I realized two things: I could not change his condition; and there was nothing either my wife or I could have done to prevent it. Watching his slow, tortuous progress has taught me to appreciate even most "trivial" of developments, not only in Ian, but in his little brother Michael. Most of us, especially with children after first-born, take a child learning to answer to his name as commonplace. But what if child does not learn to do it until they are five? And what if you have a younger child besides? You are amazed by how they learn and develop! What a miracle to watch a child develop. Ian was a blessing in disguise.
So many people, even family members, have suggested that we consider an institution for Ian. That we should focus on providing more material goods for our "normal" children. But we don't listen to this "garbage." Ian has had a very strong positive effect on our abilities as parents. He has taught us to appreciate all little things about child development that most parents take for granted. We are grateful that we have two normal children, but we feel especially blessed to have Ian. Without him, we would never have learned to appreciate life and our children to fullest. We might have more money, more "free time," but less pure joy in our lives. One family's tragedy is another family's blessing!
Have I sold you on having an autistic child yet? Do you understand point I'm trying to make? Most parents would not ever want a disabled child. But I would gladly accept another one because of what having Ian has taught me. I've taken negative and made it a positive.
How did we turn this negative into a positive? We refused to listen to people who said that trying to raise an autistic child in a normal house was all but impossible. We readjusted our priorities. We stopped associating with nay-sayers. Rather we found a group of parents, teachers, and therapists who formed our support net, who encouraged us, who taught us, who believed in us and in Ian. Three long years of waiting. And now all that hope is starting to show signs of being fulfilled. In last three months, Ian has made as much progress as he had in last three years. We had faith in ourselves and in our son.
Have faith in yourself! Have faith in your prospects! Teach yourself to believe in what you are doing and how you are doing it! Commitment and involvement. With faith you can move mountains! With faith you can succeed! Without it, you're doomed to mediocrity!
Recommended reading: Napoleon Hill's "Think and Grow Rich"
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