Listen up, and please listen carefully. I have something important to say.
Or, don't listen. Don't read any further, if you don't want to. Maybe you don't care what I have to say, and that's okay, too.
I'm speaking to all of you, though.
I'm speaking to all parents to children with autism who have chosen to share your journeys. I'm reaching out to all of you, who, after the day has long since taken every drop of energy in your reserve, dig even deeper to live the day all over again just to let someone else know they're not alone. What a profound, selfless gesture it is to do so! Your unabashed honesty brings clarity to so many, yet you face scrutiny from other parents for not being "real" enough. I know this, because I've been there, repeatedly.
"Too cute and sugar-coated" was one bit of feedback I received on a recent piece. "...don't downplay its seriousness with hearts and rainbows" was another.
I accept that what I write will not resonate with everyone, but this was just disheartening. With that in mind, I'm going to offer an explanation in regards to the manner in which I choose to convey the messages I share. In doing so, I'm speaking directly to those of you who have chosen to pass judgement.
Just as my child on the spectrum does not fit into a particular mold, neither do I! There is no "one size fits all" manual for maneuvering through a life that includes autism. Therefore, there should be no expectation amongst parents in the same community in regards to what is deemed a realistic or reasonable outlook for a child's future!
My daughter and I have a lot of days that are less than stellar. On these days, I have moments where I cry, alone, because I feel completely inadequate. However, hidden between those tumultuous moments have been some real moments of pride, inner strength, and pure joy. I write about these days, these experiences, as a whole. I don't omit reality and write fairy-tales as many have claimed. I do deliberately choose to focus on how these experiences have made me stronger and more capable. If that's not your cup of tea, I accept that. What I do not accept is the notion that I'm misguided, because the tone of my writing is too positive.
Angela and her daughter, Piper. Photo courtesy of Angela Ashton SmithI have three children. Someday, they will undoubtedly plug their names, or mine, into a search engine. I want the results of that search to show them how much this experience has taught me as their mother.
The writing I choose to share is not "too" anything. It is my own. Writing is therapeutic. Just as it can cleanse the soul to vent about a terrible experience, it can build confidence to write a positive message. I share my journey because I believe the lessons I learn may motivate others to push through. There's nothing sugar-coated about it. My daughter inspires me, and I'm excited to watch her grow.
Follow Angela's journey at https://justdrivingthestrugglebus.com