“I wouldn’t wish autism on my worst enemy.”

It’s true, I have said that and I have meant it.

Yet, the Lord has allowed this in our lives.  I love the phrase, “Nothing has happened to us that hasn’t passed through His Hands first.”  The Lord in His Sovereignty allowed autism to come into our lives.  He wasn’t shocked by it.  It wasn’t like He turned His Head and said, “When did this happen to you?”   Not only has He known; but also He has walked so closely with us in the midst of it.

And I am grateful.

In fact, these are things I am grateful about autism:

• It has made my faith in the Lord from one of head knowledge to one of utter dependence. It reminds me of Job 42:5,

            “My ears had heard of You, but now my eyes have seen You.”

I knew about His grace, His strength, His mercy and His love, now I am immersed in them!

• It has given me empathy that I never had before. If you want someone to cry with you, I am your girl!  I think when your heart is so raw you truly can “mourn with those who mourn and rejoice with those who rejoice.” (Romans 12:15)

•  It has shown me the power of prayer. We are so grateful for your prayers for us!  We feel them!

• It has shown me the kindness and generosity of others who helped us on this journey. I am so grateful for people giving so much of themselves to help us out because of their love for Christ. It truly is humbling and beautiful.

•  It has taught our kids to be compassionate. Our kids are advocates now for the underdogs and their patience and love for their sister is evident.  They adore and love her!

•  I have seen what a godly man I married. I knew David was a good man, but it is through fiery trials you see what people are made of and I am so impressed by his character, his integrity and his trust in the Lord.

• It has taught me to appreciate the good times on this journey.  I have a child who still thinks Disney princesses are real, gets so excited about Christmas presents and when Sarah belly laughs, it makes your heart sing.   There is nothing like it in the world!

No, I don’t wish this on anyone; autism has invaded our lives and changed us… and I am grateful.