Autism--Two Sides to Every Story

I certainly know first hand that autism is one of those disorders that can be very difficult for parents to deal with—emotionally (a sense of loss for the parents) and physically (a lot of work keeping the child engaged in appropriate activities and keeping him/her physically safe). All of these issues are topics that you and I can talk about and help each other with on a daily basis.

But things I often wonder are my daughter’s thoughts and dreams (she’s non-verbal) and even though she has picture communication and a hand held communication device, she still can’t truly articulate her thoughts and feelings—at least yet. Even though she does lash out physically (on occasion) who can really blame her? I can't imagine having her disorder for one minute. How frustrating and tough it must be not to be able to share her thoughts--her anger--and ask a billion questions (as children her age do); to simply be able to communicate like everyone else. I can’t wait for her to be able to write or type what she thinks and feels and be able to communicate with me--her mom, every day. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in my own life and my own frustrations and sense of loss, but I can’t imagine how she must feel everyday. I really do admire her courage and strength--I don't tell her this everyday, but I should!