From The Kindness of Strangers and Friends

So Patch ran a story about my son's autism over a month ago. The pessimist in me was expecting negativity and perhaps a backlash from people who don't understand or don't care to understand Autism. Then something incredible happened. I received so many unexpected and positive supports that it floored me and got me thinking about all the wonderful blessings that have been sent my way lately. It was just what I needed because I was overwhelmed with this new journey that our family was taking with Autism.

First there was a certain editor who offered me the chance to share my ruminations on parenting a "special" child. Then Mara and Shana wrote some very wonderful words of encouragement to me. Then there were Patty and Gina who encouraged me to continue blogging and even offered to publicize my blog on their FaceBook page. There was also Jodi who surprised me with a copy of a book on Autism that I had been searching for.  I can't forget Cathy who took me on a cruise for crying out loud! What about my Rabbi? He gave my son a very generous scholarship for his special-needs summer camp. Of course Iliana, my dear cousin with a special boy of her own, lifted up my spirits. Finally, there were all those truly amazing friends, family, and doctors who continue to inspire me and offer me words of support. Myrna, Rocio, Rosa, Sandie, Ulises, Adrienne, etc...Thank you.

All of this reminded me that goodness abounds everywhere and while it is easy to focus on the negative, it is much more fulfilling and healthy to hold on and appreciate the positive. Sure I can focus on the fact that my family is on a shoe string budget, that Ansty Pants will need therapy for a long time, that our family will never be conventionally normal, that too many people who don't fully grasp my situation will always tell me that I'm an inadequate mother and housekeeper. 

I am realizing that holding on to the negative would keep me stagnant in a place where I choose not to be.  As some one who is smart once said to me "You can't change other people or situations, but you can change their reaction to them." As such, I have decided to react in a way that would hopefully make a positive impact on my family and I'm always hopeful that the world will follow suit.

Have you taken stock of all your blessings today?