Why Having a Special Needs Child Keeps Me Grounded

Some people look at me with pity when they see me outside with a child in a wheelchair. I guess they figure I’ve been dealt a bad hand in life. How wrong they are.

While having a special needs child does come with its own set of challenges, so does having children with no health issues.  For example, my teenage daughter and I constantly butt heads. She thinks she should have the right to “express” herself.  What she doesn’t get is why when I say the conversation is done, it’s done.

Now, some may be thinking, “Well she should be able to express her feelings.” True, but not to the point of disrespect.  When I say do something or don’t do it, I mean just that. I don’t need an explanation as to why she should or should not do it.

On the flip side, I have this special little boy who never talks back. Yes, he fully understands me and can be defiant if he wanted to but he doesn’t. He’s just a happy little boy who stops doing something when I say stop and does when I say do. Of course, what I tell him is on a different level as with most special needs children but I tell you – If it weren’t for him, I may lose it. He truly keeps me grounded.

While there are other things in life that I find challenging (other relationships, finances, work), I always return to the love and presence of this little boy whom God has gifted me with. My CJ gives me such joy that when I’m sad I immediately turn to him.

I guess I’m as dependent on my special needs child as he is on me.

Be Sociable, Share!

• 

Tagged as: balancing life, special needs child