Right and Wrong

I always thought that I would be a really good dad.  And I had visions of my children being the smartest, friendliest, most talented people in the world.  So as Elliott’s developmental delays became more apparent, it was easy to be in denial.  But the older he gets, the more I realize that there is nothing “wrong” with him.  He just goes about things differently, and along the way he helps me become a better parent.

 

 

For example—some parents worry about whether their kids will make friends with the right crowd; I worry about whether mine will have friends at all.  Some parents worry about whether their kids will learn bad words; I worry about whether mine will learn any words.  Some parents worry about whether their kids will be successful enough in school; I worry about whether mine will be able to finish school.  Some parents worry about whether their kids will be able to withstand negative influences from the world; I worry about whether mine will be aware enough to even be influenced.

 

Now, don’t get me wrong.  When we’re at a birthday party and Elliott doesn’t want to participate, I still get embarrassed.  When we’re at a friend’s house and Elliott is screaming, I still get angry.  But I am learning more and more that he really is a special little spirit—and that’s not just something we say to make ourselves feel better.

 

So, dear person at the park, or at the store, or at church, please keep your dirty looks and dirty comments to yourself.  I am fully aware of my child’s behavior.  Trust me.  But if you knew him like I know him, then you would know that he is alright.  In fact, he’s better than that—he is all right.
 

Brothers

I have such fond memories of my big brother taking care of me when we were little--cleaning our room, taking me on trips to Ameristop, bringing me souvenirs from his trips, etc. (and even though they dropped me on the cement and tried to push me into Niagra River, I have some fond memories of my sisters, too!)

Along with Elliott's syndrome comes some social awkwardness. It makes me sad to see him around kids his age because he just doesn't want to interact with them. And some people don't invite him to things because he can be so difficult. I have worried that Elijah would be the same way and that the two of them wouldn't get along. But then I see things like this, and it just warms my heart.

Thank goodness for brothers (and sisters)!