Ode to My Love of Being an Autism Mom

Unveiling the unexpected joys of autism motherhood

Our Caleb’s loot from his pre-school’s Valentine’s Day class party!

In observance of this Valentine's Day I'd like to take a break from deciphering sensory meltdowns and navigating therapy schedules for a sec and talk about the unexpected joys, the hidden gems, the sunshine peeking through the storm clouds, of being an autism mom. Because yes, readers, believe it or not, there are joys. (Gasps of surprise? I hear you.)

Now, before you think I'm chugging sunshine and rainbows, let me clarify: autism parenthood isn't a walk in the park by any means. It's a roller coaster ride with extra loops, unexpected dips, and enough twists to make your head spin. But amidst the challenges, there's a unique beauty, a different kind of magic, that only autism moms truly understand.

Here's a taste of what I mean:

1. Witnessing the World Through Unfiltered Eyes: Forget Instagram filters, our kids show us the world in its raw, unadulterated splendor. Every sunset becomes a symphony of colors, every raindrop a tiny explosion of wonder. Their enthusiasm for the little things is infectious, reminding us to slow down and appreciate the simple joys we often take for granted.

2. The Power of Unconditional Love: Our children may not always express it "typically," but the depth of their love is nothing short of extraordinary. The nonverbal hug, the unexpected giggle, the quiet moments of connection – these are treasures beyond measure, testaments to a bond that transcends words.

3. Celebrating the Extraordinary: The neurotypical world may focus on milestones and achievements, but for us, every step forward is a cause for celebration. From mastering a new skill to simply tolerating a new haircut, each victory is a testament to their incredible resilience and determination.

4. Redefining "Normal": In our little corner of the universe, "normal" is beautifully redefined. Stimming becomes a creative outlet, meltdowns become opportunities for understanding, and routines become anchors of stability. We learn to embrace the quirky, the different, and find beauty in the unexpected.

5. Finding Strength in Adversity: Autism parenting has a way of revealing our inner strength and resilience. We learn to navigate challenges with grace, patience, and determination, drawing on reservoirs of strength we never knew we had. Our children teach us to be resilient, adaptable, and compassionate – qualities that serve us well not only as parents but as human beings.

6. The Unshakeable Sisterhood: Being an autism mom isn't a solo mission. It's a journey shared with an incredible community of women who understand our struggles, celebrate our triumphs, and offer unwavering support. In this sisterhood, we find connection, empathy, and a reminder that we're not alone.

Now, don't get me wrong, these joys don't erase the challenges. But they do offer a glimmer of hope, a reminder that even in the storm, there's beauty to be found. So, to all my fellow autism moms, let's hold onto these unexpected joys, celebrate the unique magic of our children, and keep reminding ourselves that we are enough. We are strong, we are capable, and we are, against all odds, incredibly lucky to be part of this extraordinary journey.

And remember, if you ever need a reminder of the hidden joys, reach out to your sisterhood. They'll be there, whispering sunshine and rainbows (or maybe just sharing a knowing smile and a glass of wine). We're in this together, quirks and all.

With love and understanding,

Cheniece Patrick