The truth about Autism

10 years ago this past Thursday, D was born.  With his birth brought for the first time into my life vocabulary the word "autism".  I can honestly say he has challenged me intellectually, physically and emotionally.

Starting this blog five years ago - it was a tribute to David as well as an outlet for me, his Dad.  I re-read posts from five years ago and I invite you to read the post I made on his fifth birthday.  Funny, those same challenges and fears from five years ago - hold true for me today.  I am challenged like never before to help my son lead his life abudantly.

A colleague and friend shared with me the Boston Globe article - "The truth about Autism".

As Gareth Cook writes, "THERE IS, living among us, a group of people with remarkable intellectual gifts."  

Yes there is....and I am blessed to know him.

Occupy Wall Street

I haven't been home in 5 days and contrary to popular rumors, JohnnyO is not hunkered down at the Occupy Wall Street protests.  No power in Newtown has left us homeless for a the good part of a week.  I am not complaining mind you - you learn a little bit about yourself and your family in times of turmoil. 

For me, it is the handling of stress.  I believe I handle it well, take it in stride, make lemonade out of lemons.  When your Dad dies during your senior year of high school - you know where your priorities are and how you will live your life.

However for Dads overall - this can be a time of pressure.  Figuring out where to live, what is the next move, buy a generator, electrician, will the pipes freeze, will my home be vandalized, what about that tree in my front yard, is there basketball practice this weekend and how will I get to work (showered and shaved).

I feel I have to lead this team - this family team.  I have to be the rudder to guide this ship.  I am the straw that stirs the drink (thank you Reggie Jackson).  I have to have a level head, heart and soul.  So there is that pressure to keep it together in times of trouble.  I am striving on doing that for the kids.  I hope they enjoy this time together sleeping at in-laws.

I do a good job of hiding the inner mind turmoil.  I have to do better on exposing my struggles knowing that this is what all Dads go through.  Managing their team through a long season......wins and losses.  A game or battle more important than Wall Street....if you can believe that.