Parenting on the Spectrum: A Mix of Sweet and Spicy Moments

From across the room, I watched Brantley looking through his birthday presents, he picked up a big bag of beef jerky and shaked it ferociously. I told him if he brought it me I would open it for him.

I made that statement, knowing that he in his almost 9 years, he has never followed through with a request like that.

But, to my surprise he did.

Brantley proudly walked across the room, handed me a bag of beef jerky with a smile across his face and anticipation in his eyes. I was in awe as my Birthday Boy patiently waited for me to open his beef jerky.

I smiled to myself, thinking of his growth as I watched him enjoy his new bag of sweet and spicy beef jerky.

I couldn’t help but think, Forrest Gump didn’t quite have it right, at least for us. Life raising a child with special needs, isn’t like a box of chocolates; it is more like a bag of sweet and spicy beef jerky.

The sweet moments, like watching your child conquer a simple task and celebrating with them, make this journey worthwhile. But, there are these spicy, hard parts that leave a lingering burn.

Raising Brantley is undeniably a mix of sweet and spicy flavors, a journey that elicits feelings of satisfaction, pride, excitement, frustration, fear, and worry. Yet, it's a journey I'll always embrace. Just like that bag of sweet and spicy beef jerky, Brantley exudes a sweetness that captivates and keeps you hooked on his unique personality. Each day with him is a reminder of the richness and complexity of life, and I wouldn't trade it for anything else. #autismfamily #autismlife #autismparents #disability