A Moment of Gratitude

When you are a parent of a special needs child, it’s sometimes hard to focus on the positive. Watching our children struggle to be accepted or to do the things that come so easily to “typical” children can be difficult. But then, a moment comes along when our special children do something that just takes our breath away. Sometimes it’s the little things — such as tying their shoes for the first time or making a new friend. These little moments remind us of how far they’ve come and of just how blessed we are to experience it with them. This past weekend, Gina had one of those moments when she watched her daughter Katie with Apsperger’s, act in her school play. Afterwards, she wrote Katie a poem to sum up how she felt.

To My Precious Katie,

All those days of watching you struggle to fit in.

All those years of looking at you, thinking you were too thin.

All those times I cried for you when you could not find a friend.

All those moments I wished I could somehow make your pain end.

All those years listening to people tell me you were not right.

Of getting them to understand you, and always having to fight.

All those periods of uncertainty, fear of what each day would bring.

Of worrying about your future and if a man would give you a ring.

All those times I tried to change you and praying for a cure.

Never realizing that what I had with you  was so very pure.

All those years of thinking your disability was a cross to bear.

Of looking at your quirks and wanting them to somehow disappear.

But then comes a moment when I get to see you in the light.

And see so clearly, so truly, that the way you are is right.

Your compassion, strength, and heart is like no other.

I’m  just amazed that God chose me…to be your mother.

Katie pictured third from left

I am so proud of you today — and always.

Love,
MOM