You have autism.
These words will linger with you throughout your life, shaping your choices and the decisions made on your behalf. They may alter how others perceive you, leading some to treat you with care while others may be thoughtless or uninformed. Even those who love you dearly may stumble in their understanding. Yet, amidst it all, there will be kindness and support. The world is a tapestry of varied individuals. Some will encourage you to chase your dreams, while others may try to limit your potential. Remember, don’t let narrow-minded perspectives deter you from achieving greatness. Your mind is capable of incredible things.
I recall the tears I shed the night we learned of your diagnosis. It was a deep, heartfelt cry—not out of sadness for your uniqueness, but for the challenges you will face in this world. I wept for the ignorance and cruelty you may encounter, and for the pain that could stem from those who simply don’t understand you.
I think back to that incident in preschool when a cruel child told you that no one liked you. I will never forget the way your smile vanished, how I could see your spirit dimming. That remark stole a bit of your confidence, making you retreat into your own space. I don’t blame you for that.
I cried because I know that there will be more individuals like her who will try to diminish your spirit. There will be well-meaning yet misguided people who struggle to understand you and autism, insisting on seeing you only through their limited lens. But then, I remembered how resilient you are.
You possess a strength that can withstand hurtful words and ignorant remarks. My pride in you eclipses my tears. I am proud of every facet of who you are. No more crying for a world that isn’t prepared for your brilliance or for those who won’t get to experience the joy of knowing you.
Samuel, you have autism, and while those words may shape your journey, they do not define you. You are a complex individual, full of talents and sharp focus. Your intellectual abilities are remarkable, and you can feel empathy in a profound way. You are acutely aware of emotions and tension in your surroundings.
Your sensitivity to sensory input is extraordinary, often prompting you to seek distraction or retreat into your thoughts. There is an intensity in your determination that is unmatched when you desire something. You have a unique ability to surprise, teach, and inspire those around you.
You are also filled with love. You give it, receive it, express it, and comprehend it deeply. Your family will always strive to make your path smoother. I will do everything in my power to shield you from pain because when your heart aches, mine aches even more.
When I see you, I perceive your sweetness and fragility. I see the little boy who sleeps peacefully, surrounded by dreamcatchers to catch both good and bad dreams. This was your idea, a strategy to calm your racing thoughts at night. Your mind is a unique kaleidoscope, constantly shifting, filled with colors and patterns. I cherish hearing how you describe memories as having flavors and colors as possessing textures. Everything in your world is interwoven with a complexity that’s both beautiful and challenging, a complexity I promise to always strive to understand.
You can be demanding, Samuel. Sometimes your needs drain my energy, leaving me exhausted. I try hard to juggle your requirements with your sister’s, but at times I falter. I love you both beyond words, yet your frequent whining can be overwhelming.
There are days when you refuse to eat because the food isn’t just right. We worry about what you’re eating at school since you often don’t tell us. We worry if you’re being bullied or if you lack friends because you don’t share those concerns. You can become upset if the shower isn’t as hot as it can get, and bedtime routines seem to grow longer and more complicated.
My patience can wear thin. I don’t want to raise my voice, and I despise the moments I do. Sometimes, your need for attention makes me feel guilty for not giving your sister enough time. You have a particular quirk with your socks that reminds me of my own childhood habits. It makes me wonder if you inherited some of my traits.
You often sit in the middle of the sidewalk to scratch your foot for what feels like an eternity. You insist on a specific number of goodbyes and pats on the back at a precise rhythm. Noises and smells can be overwhelming, and you have your moments of being unreasonable. You stretch our limits, but our love for you has no bounds.
Samuel, remember that you are strong. Life will present challenges, but you possess a resilience that allows you to navigate through adversity. You were meant to soar high, not just swim against the tide.
You view the world through a distinctive lens. Autism is merely a term that describes how you perceive life. It is not a pejorative or something to conceal. We will embrace it openly, understanding that different perspectives are essential. The world needs individuals like you—those who break molds and inspire change.
One day, acceptance of autism will extend far beyond our current understanding. The stigma surrounding it exists because we allow it to. It is crucial for you to know that autism is not a flaw to be fixed. You are not broken.
You are more than we can imagine. You see more, feel more, and experience life in ways we can hardly fathom. Your ability to discover beauty in the overlooked and find joy in the mundane is a gift. If only we could see the world through your eyes, we would all be better for it.
Dear Samuel, my precious boy, never forget that you do not need to change to conform to this world. Instead, the world needs to adapt to embrace you. And always remember: I am endlessly in your corner.
With all my love,
Mom
For further insights on parenting and autism, check out this related blog post that delves into understanding differences. Additionally, if you’re looking for authoritative information on fertility, visit this resource for tips and guidance. For more on pregnancy and home insemination, this link provides excellent resources.
Summary: This heartfelt letter to a child with autism emphasizes the uniqueness of the individual, acknowledging both the challenges they may face and the strengths they possess. It encourages acceptance and understanding, reinforcing the idea that being different is valuable.