Sep 20 2008
Who Knew?
I went to a baby shower today. And as we sat around watching the new mom open all the little onesies and bibs and blankies, I remembered my own pregnancy with Gus. In particular, I remembered a game I used to play with him while he was still in the womb - the tapping game. (The tapping game was when I would tap on my belly and he would kick back - very sensitive even in utero, I guess.) At no time during my pregnancy did I ever imagine the path we’d end up on.
I never imagined the most awesome giggle I’d ever heard.
I never imagined how cute the word ‘tur-tle’ could sound coming from the mouth of a one year old.
I never imagined how a child so affectionate at home could be so isolated at day care.
I never imagined that a two year old would know the alphabet and would be counting.
I never imagined early intervention, ABA therapy, occupational therapy, special ed classes, medication trials, or IEP meetings.
I never imagined a seven year old who could make up Pokemon riddles that are actually funny. (What does a Pokemon say when he has a cold? Pik-achoooo! C’mon, that’s pretty good!)
I never imagined what an awesome and fun kid I’d be blessed with.
At the shower, we were asked to give the new parents advice or words of wisdom, and I just thought of something I should have added because there seems to be so many people who worry these days about autism:
You never know what cards you’re going to be dealt, so there’s no point in worrying, but also no point in bemoaning a hand that seems less than optimal when it’s dealt. The cards will fall where they will, and all you can do is play it to the best of your ability. Even a difficult hand can be a winner.
