This article touched me heart and humbled me! When we think of "special needs" or hear the word, it comes to mind the early 90's, 80's (down the line) meaning of mental retardation! It's a super harsh word, I know! But that is what people would think of back in the day!
Now, in the year 2012, the words "special needs" is placed with extreme difficulties to those kiddos who have auto-immune problems, extreme food allergies/sensitivities, is socially slow/awkward etc!
When I read this article, I couldn't help but identify with several of her thoughts and feelings! It's also helped me to realize that we need to be mindful, respectful, thoughtful and loving towards those parents who are on this journey for a short period of time to those who are on this journey for a much longer adventure!
I related to her when she said that it was helpful for her to share about something specific of her son then to just ask how was he doing! "How are they doing" is such an open question! Where does one start but it's easier or more digestible to answer something more specific and let those more direct questions lead to a more in-depth conversation with ease!
Please read the full post ... If you are a parent with special needs then you might find this article helpful to read and if you aren't a parent with a kiddos with impairments then you probably know of a parent who is! I encourage you to read this info not for your own sake, read it for that parent you know of who is walking this journey right now!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/maria-lin/special-needs-parenting_b_1314348.html#es_share_ended
Amy - I loved this article too! Sometimes it's hard to articulate how it feels to be the parent of a child with special needs...she does a lovely job of it. I too could relate to pretty much everything she wrote. I may have to share this article at some point! She references a similar article that inspired her to write what she did...I read that one too and it was also excellent.
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