The grass is always browner

The grass is always browner...isn't that what we all find to be true when envying another persons "greener" pasture? I'm also finding, as the years go by, that my Mother was right - "it could be worse".

Growing up, I literally despised her "Pollyanna" attitude. Oddly enough, as most people do, I find myself quickly comforted by her positive quotes and uplifting outlook on life and its challenges now that I am older, have a marriage/family of my own.

I attended a retreat this past weekend for mothers of children with special needs. We were placed into small groups based on our child's disability. There were groups for every disability I have ever heard of and some I had no idea existed.

In sharing our stories with one another, I heard overwhelming pain, suffering, frustration, anger, fear, disappointment, exhaustion expressed that it was incomprehensible to me how any of us managed life on Planet Autism on a day to day basis. Juxtaposed to those feelings were amazing stories of accomplishment, joy and pure love that gave the glimmer of hope that shimmered just enough to identify itself as the gift of grace from God that kept every one's ability to cope alive.

Deep down, it made me realize that I would never trade my son's non-verbal piece of the autistic puzzle for the eating and sleeping (severe) issues that other children so often struggle with. Yes, hearing him "speak" is like watching a foreign movie without subtitles; however, now that he can communicate with PECS or Sign Language, the world is a much more manageable place for us all.

I am also reveling in the blessing that my husband is as involved, helpful and loving as he is...I pray I never forget that (although I highly doubt I will). This weekend was so refreshing in so many ways. This was my second year at the retreat and I hope it won't be my last for a very, very long time.