Take off Worry, Put on Faith
Worry is at the top of every special-needs mom’s list of struggles. We can make a list of worries for our children that goes on and on. Worries for today, tomorrow, and after we’re gone. When we’re honest, we know worry is a sin. I once read that worry is practical atheism. It’s living … Read more
Take off Jealousy, Put on Lovingkindness
We’ve all heard of the “Mommy Wars,” where moms fight over who is parenting best or who has better children. But in the special-needs world, I find a different mommy war happening. I’m not proud to admit it, but I’ve experienced it. Sitting at our autism support group meeting, I listen to the mother … Read more
Take off Anger, Put on Patience
When my boys were really young we moved from North Carolina to Pennsylvania where Lee had gotten a job as the preacher. Soon after the move, we were at a Super Bowl watching party at the church, and they had a big screen set up to watch the game and a projector. David was … Read more
Take off Unforgiveness, Put on Peace
I talked to a friend yesterday about a situation in our family that happened months ago but left deep scars. Because of God’s grace and goodness, those scars are healing. What’s not healing are the relationships that were damaged because of the situation. I’m still holding on to unforgiveness. I want to start off … Read more
Preach the Gospel to Yourself
The gospel is not just for the moment of salvation. We need the gospel for every moment of our lives. Paul sums up the gospel message in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, … Read more
Want to Strengthen Your Special-Needs Family in 2018?
Yesterday afternoon we had a reporter from a local newspaper come over to talk about the challenges of the holidays for special-needs families. She asked good questions: “What do you do differently because of your son’s sensory issues?” “What’s hard about being out of his routine?” And my favorite, “What advice would you give … Read more
My Feelings about Down Syndrome Awareness Month as a Sibling
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Because I follow lots of special-needs parents on social media, my timelines have been filled with facts and fun stories about friends and family members with Down syndrome. Last week on my Instagram account I even shared my own story, including these texts from my big sister: She and … Read more
Ten Steps to Take If You Suspect Your Child Has Autism
Pray to God and talk to your spouse. Seek God’s wisdom and plan for your child. Don’t keep your concerns to yourself. Even if you and your spouse aren’t on the same page at the same time, keep talking and praying. God can bring you together to help your child. Be patient with your … Read more
Getting James’s Autism Diagnosis
James developed typically until around his second birthday. He made good eye contact, interacted with his brother and others, and had the language skills typical of other two-year-olds. But after his second birthday, we noticed some changes in him. We were most concerned that he didn’t talk much. He even seemed to be losing … Read more
Praying for Special-Needs Families in the Aftermath of Hurricane Harvey
Friends, we have been overwhelmed by your love and concern for us since Hurricane Harvey brought flooding to Houston. We’ve been sharing updates on Facebook and each time we mention a prayer request, you respond and we see God move! But in the days and weeks to come, families like mine will continue to … Read more
Our Church Plant Failed, but Maybe It’s a Good Thing
Two years ago we moved across the country to plant a special-needs welcoming church. Next month we’re officially closing. It certainly didn’t go as we hoped, but maybe it’s a good thing. Two years ago we packed up a big truck in our small town in Pennsylvania and moved to the fastest growing suburb … Read more
You can’t guarantee a life without disability
A few months ago I got an email from a new grandmother. “What’s your opinion about vaccines causing autism?” I replied in my usual way—I’m not a doctor. I don’t give medical advice. If you think your child/grandchild has a weak immune system, talk to your pediatrician about your concerns … She emailed back. … Read more
