“Into the Groove,” remember that 80’s song by Madonna? Well, I can relate to this, being back into our routine and school as well as numerous other activities and groups.

It feels good and it feels bad – you know what I mean? Gone are the carefree summer days when all I had to think about was, “will we go swimming or paddle boarding?”

It is good to be back into our normal everyday life. I look at both of our children and I am so very proud of them. Our daughter is in her second year at university and even though she faces many challenges, she seems to have settled into her new schedule without too many issues. Our son had many challenges last year with one of his teachers at school and I am so happy to see that he is not anxious about going and he is enjoying all his classes.

I thank God every day for the teachers and EA’s and all of the people that He has brought into our children’s lives. I pray every day that they will both get positive influences who can help them grow and develop into thriving young people.

I trust God and I know that this is possible. But as a parent of two teens on the autism spectrum, our normal is not the normal of everyone else. Our daily challenges are different and some of the decisions we have to make with or for our children can be difficult.

Autism never takes a day off. In the early years, I was totally consumed and challenged on a daily basis. Now I feel much more equipped to handle challenges, changes and whatever else may come our way. I know that this is only possible through God’s grace.

Just to tell you how far we have come, when our son was in grade 4, he was supposed to be in a portable. But, because of his need to always move around and possibly escape, instead of being in a portable, they put him in a grade 4/5 split class. It was in the school and they did not want to have to worry about any safety issues. Today, in high school, this is the first time he has been in a portable and he is doing amazing! It’s a little thing that most people would not even think about, but for him, it is a huge gain and improvement.

I believe with my whole heart that God does have a plan. He watches us, and He wants us to lean on Him especially during our most difficult circumstances. He makes a path through for us, while being by our side. I guess that’s what faith is all about. I know that my faith grows, the more that I lean on God.

I don’t know what it is today that you may be struggling with. It may be something to do with your children – it’s hard and especially harder when you throw autism into the mix. But, I hope that you will lean on God and the church family. Let us support and help you. We are all part of God’s bigger family so if you are feeling alone and isolated, I am here to tell you that you don’t need to be. We are here for you. God is here for you and no matter what your situation is, He is always in control of everything. He sees you. He hears you and most of all He loves you.

In the Bible it says,

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you;
he will never leave you or forsake you.
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:8

Take care, until next time…..

Shelly Wedge
Exceptional Family Ministry Coordinator
Amberlea Church