Some of God’s greatest gifts truly are wrapped in unlikely packages. Mine came in all 6 pounds and 10 ounces of baby goodness. Sweetman and I loved every single inch of this package. He seemed perfect. We dreamed of life as parents of a bouncing baby boy.
Two years later, our lives were interrupted by the diagnosis of Autism. I could try to tell you how I wrapped myself around that diagnosis and accepted it with open arms, knowing that if “God brought us to it, He’d see us through it.” But I didn’t. I really didn’t.
Here’s what I did do:
- I cried out to God for answers
- I leaned hard and heavy on friends who loved us despite my child’s behaviors
- I continued to believe God had His hand in this, on us, and around him
- I learned the power of a desperate prayer thrown heavenward morning, noon, or night
There were moments where I longed are still moments when I long to be able to take part in those conversations where I talk about the sports that are played, the interests that are pursued, the unique passions that are on display “already”. But I can’t.
What I can do, however, is to stick with it.
Because there isn’t any easy button for this life interruption.
But God…
I realize, now, that the healing of this mama heart of mine is going to be a life-long process. And there will be more heartache along the way. But, you know what? I can honestly tell you that I’m okay with that.
In fact, I say “Yes!” to God because my Sweetboy is fearfully and wonderfully made. By Him. For me.
And through it all, I’ve come to understand that this child? He is indeed perfect.
For us.
Oh yes he is.
I’m joining a community of over 24,000 Jesus lovin’ ladies from all over God’s Green Earth for a blog hop today. We are studying the book “What Happens When Women Say Yes To God” by Lysa TerKeurst over at Proverbs 31 Ministries’ Online Bible Study. If you’d like to read some of the other beautiful words from this online community, click the button below.
Missindeedy 
Thank you for sharing, I am inspired and encouraged by your faith! God bless!
That is very kind. Thank you!
Yes! God gave that boy the best parents for him too. Indeed sometimes the best things are the hardest. 🙂 Thank you for sharing your heart again this week.
Thank you Becca. That is truth – sometimes the best things really are the hardest.
Missy, you are awesome. Our son has some learning issues that weren’t really discovered until his senior year in high school. His older brother has done well for himself and yet my little guy, just struggles with everything. He got through college and can’t find a job in his field so he is working part time minimum wage. I know his dad thinks he is slacking, not trying, being lazy, whatever you want to call it. But…this is the most wonderful, caring, thoughtful young man you will ever meet. I hear this from everyone. So, maybe he won’t be a millionaire in mansion, but I’ll accept him no matter if he lives in the crappy little apartment he is in now or in a mobile home or however it turns out. God has a plan and I have come to accept that. My one wish is that he would be closer to God and have Him more in his life.
We have friends whose autistic son just graduated from high school. When he went to accept his diploma, on his own, the crowd cheered and his dad was in tears. He has a great mom, dad and older sister who would move mountains for him. The entire neighborhood looks out for him and he is a great kid. He rarely speaks to others but always asks for one of his dads friends by name and he is very fond of him. This guy is a big, burly trucker but has really touched this young man emotionally in way that is so special. None of us knows what the future holds, but it is part of Gods plan to place us where we are needed. In the end, I think we all desire happiness and peace in our lives. It just has a different meaning for all of us as individuals and as families. Much love and peace to you and your family, sweet Missy.
Sheila, I read your comments lately and just wish we could sit down over a cup of Good Strong Coffee and chat. Thank you for sharing your own sweet son’s story. They are ours. God gave us this time with them to relish exactly who He created them to be. I love that last line that you wrote about having a different meaning for each of us as individuals and families. Amen to that, friend! Amen to that.
Missy,
I am in tears girl! The realization that your heart is what needed to be healed and not your son drove me over the edge! I love you and your heart!
Thank you Sweet Friend! Just… thank you. ❤
How blessed are we that when we are weak, our strong God is there for us, every step of the way, even in this situation. Thanks for sharing
Amanda, such encouraging reminders there. Every step of the way – Praise Him for that, too!
Missy, you are so strong and amazing, and God INDEED blessed your son with the perfect Mama for him!!
Thank you, Sweet Stephanie! Just… thank you. ❤
Beautiful testimony! God bless. #stickwithit
Thanks so much Beckey.
What an amazing testament to Him that you’ve shown and what an awesome Mama heart you have!! God knew exactly what He was doing when he placed that little man in your arms and you are equipped to do all that He’s asked and will ask. No, we may never know here on earth why Our Lord does the things He does, but it’s in faith and in His promises we know all things work together for good to those who love God!! Blessings to you and your family!! Love ya girl!!
🙂 Trish (OBS small group leader)
Thank you, Sweet Trish! Equipped because I’m called. I’m believing that and saying Yes to it every day. ❤
& you are the perfect momma for him 🙂
I heart your encouragement, Rebecca Jo.
Thank you for sharing this with us Missy. May God give you the strength to persevere and the comfort knowing He is right there with you. ❤
Thank you so much, Jennifer! ❤
Great post, it wasn’t the life we planned, it was the life God gave us and he knows best. It is a lifetime of finding God every day in the middle of every storm.
You had me at “…a lifetime of finding God…” Thank you!
Hearing ya loud and clear Mama! A lesson I have to keep learning, over and over.
Amen, Lizzy. Amen.