Is Your Son Okay?

"Is your son Okay?"  A mother asked me today, after I introduced myself and told them a bit about my journey in the world of Autism.

I knew what she meant, but I answered her with a question.   With a very playful smile, I asked her what she meant by okay. I knew exactly what she meant. It's what many parents of children with special needs mean. She was hoping that I had "The Answer".  It was that question dripping with hope.  That the answer will somehow help them confirm that their child will "fit in", be able to become independent and ease their fear of the unknown.  

Like most parents of children with a disability, until you can accept your child's diagnosis, you will constantly seek "The Answer". It's like those searching for the best get rich quick idea.  You want to get rich so bad, that you would do anything to get rich!  Most parents experience this.  I know I did when I was told my Donomite had autism.  I prayed for "The Answer".   I read books, searching for "The Answer".  I researched online, talked to anyone I could, asked any question that came to me.  I searched everywhere for "The Answer". I was willing to do whatever it took to make sure my son was okay.  Until "The Answer" came to me. My Donovan was always okay.  It was me that wasn't.  I was the one that was scared, and feared the unknown.

Once I realized that I was the one that wasn't okay, I was able to  begin working on me.  By doing this I was able to focus on what HE needed.  

So my answer is, "Yes, my son is okay, and so is your child!"  

Different not Less!