The word that resonates with me today is “more”. It is the one way I can describe life with my son. Just about any word would fit in behind the word more: more energy, more movement, more emotion, more anger, more love, more sadness, more fear, more frustration, more talking, more silliness, more imagination, more creativity, more talent, more intellect, more persistence, more sensitivity, more repetition, more will, more… You get my point!
It is exhausting to think about it sometimes, much less to keep up! I also find that word applies to my job as a mom and what it means to raise him: more discipline, more boundaries, more frustration, more patience, more time, more energy, more preparation, more giving, more love.
Just like he can laugh and cry within the same breath, I am amazed at how I can have such extreme opposite emotions in one minute. Kids like him are so hard to love yet so easy to love. There is a constant need to focus on the positive, to find the good in every situation. Even in the difficult times, I look for what we have learned from the experience.
Yet another way “more” applies to me is that I must have more support and more time off to recharge (which I don’t really do!!). I realize this all applies to every mom of every child, yet for a mom raising a child with autism spectrum disorders, it applies even more!
One thing I definitely need more of is energy, which is why I am thankful for having discovered the benefits of raw and living foods. It has not only helped him overcome some major problems, but it has given me the energy, mental clarity, and emotional stability to cope with daily life.
I think today has been an especially full-on day. Not a bad day by any means, but today was in all ways…well, more! So I am ready for more relaxation, more rest, and more sleep! So, with that, I will say good night!