We are a few days away from Thanksgiving. 2025 has flown by and so much is happening. But I am in a mindset of thankfulness today.
These last few months have been a whirlwind of the unexpected. It seems something unexpected happens in my life at every turn here lately. Some days it feels very overwhelming especially when you have no prior experience in that area.
But I am still thankful.
How?
I am grateful for the people who reach out to me personally by phone, text, private message, or personal visits with advice, help, encouragement, and reassurance. These folks have allowed me to vomit all over them on the phone or in person. Sometimes, I feel like a broken record.
Walking difficult roads can feel lonely especially when you are dealing with something beyond your control and expertise.
Here lately it seems the algorithm on Facebook leads me to various autism groups I joined a few years ago. And each day I read about the struggles many are facing, some very serious and obvious cries for help. The desperation in the posts is heartbreaking and concerning.
Too many posts are written by women, both single and married on the verge of giving up completely. Sadly many of them are raising autistic children younger than seven. If they are already finding themselves this desperate and defeated with a child so young, what will the future be like for them and the children?
I don’t have the answer.
Add into the mix I know very little if anything about their child’s specific diagnosis and attributes. I don’t know what it’s like to live in their homes and live with their struggles daily. I only know what I read online. This is a reality many don’t know about.
It’s unbelievable how many children have been diagnosed on the spectrum. Last record I saw was we’re now seeing autism diagnosed in 1 in 22 children in California. Folks that is staggering.
Another crazy reality is how many grandparents and people my age are raising little children with autism. The parents have checked out for one reason or another. Caretakers and grandparents are stepping up to raise these children and do the best they can to provide for their needs.
Over the last few years, I have learned so many things that confirm the diagnosis in my little guy, my grand nephew Jaxon. The online autism groups have been a well of information despite the obvious struggles of many in the groups.
What can I do?
Each morning I ask the Lord to direct me. I ask that the Lord to give me wisdom and strength to make it through today. My shoulders are carrying a heavy load, but I know I am not carrying it alone.
I have hope not in a system or the most well meaning people. My hope is in Jesus Christ, my Savior and King. Without the Lord, I would be lost.
The Lord sees my struggles and He has provided everything I need.
Some days are harder than others. Some days I feel like the boundary lines change. What worked yesterday with my little guy doesn’t work today. It’s an ever solving puzzle that never seems to get solved. Just when you think you have the missing piece figured out, the dynamics change.
Yesterday he loved the breakfast you made. Today he hates it. Yesterday he listened to everything you said. Today he acts like he can’t hear. Last week he had a great week at school, this week has been tough. The list goes on and you as the caregiver are required to go with the ebs and flow and keep your head above water. You are required to be on your game 24/7.
But God.
God hasn’t changed. He is the same yesterday, today and will be tomorrow. His promises haven’t changed and His plan hasn’t changed. He is available 24/7 and never grows weak or weary.
Are the days hard? Yes they are. Do I feel lonely on the autism journey sometimes? I sure do. But then I remind myself I have everything I need.
Was this the future I saw for myself? No. But God knew and I am reminded daily I have what I need.
Admittedly, there are days I cry because I don’t see a way through the hard moments he is experiencing, and in those days, I know deep down God is near. He’s always been near, and I am so thankful.
I feel for all those who are crying out for help and I wish I could meet with each one and hear their stories, but that’s not possible, so the only thing I can offer them whether they accept it or not are my prayers.
The Lord hears the prayers of His children. He has answered my prayers and continues to guide me accordingly.
If you are someone struggling to get through today because your beloved child has wrecked the house again, spit food, smeared poop, hit you, bit you, pulled your hair, had a meltdown, tried to run away or broke into the pantry again, whatever may be happening, please remember there are folks out there you don’t know praying for you and your loved ones. You are seen.
Today, choose to be thankful as you ride out the storms.
Remember, there is hope. Sometimes we just need to focus on the positive even if that positive feels so small. When you’re in a dark place, look for the light.
I’m thankful for the Lord’s provisions and thankful for you.
Blessings!
The Teaching Lady
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