I think that this is a question we all may think of from time-to-time. It’s easy when things are going well, but not so easy when we are struggling. Some days, I will be so connected to God and I’m ready to face the day, no matter what comes my way. But like everyone else, I have those days when I am discouraged, feel defeated and feel that I can’t wait to lay my head down on the pillow at night. It’s in the hard times that we really need God, especially me.

When you are raising a child with special needs, I can honestly say that the worries, the struggles and the things that a special needs parent has to do in a day are so very overwhelming.

I don’t know what that looks like in everyone else’s house, but in our house it can be anything from making sure that all dietary requirements are met – I have one with an eating disorder and another one with extreme dietary requirements. Just these things alone in a day are very time consuming and tiring. Other challenges that we face are therapy, mental health issues and daily schedules to name a few.

When our son was first diagnosed with autism, I often asked the question, “Why God”? I also wondered sometimes where He was when I was so overwhelmed and crying that I couldn’t make it to another day. But you know what? He was there right by my side. He’s always been there and He will always be there. We just have to let Him in and trust that He has a plan for all of us, including our children. I have found that keeping my faith and trust in God has not only helped me but also our entire family. God cares about all of our circumstances no matter how bad they may be. He loves us unconditionally and will always be by our side. I have found that God does have a purpose for our perceived ‘pain.’

I feel so blessed that I am in this crazy ‘autism world’ so to speak. I have met some of the most amazing people who are now great friends and confidants. I would not have this rich blessing if I wasn’t thrust into this world. It’s amazing to me how God can bring good of what can be perceived as an impossible situation. I think it’s important to remember that God cares. He loves us and He will always be there for us no matter what!

“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow-not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below – indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38, 39

Shelly Wedge
Exceptional Families Coordinator