The world, today, lifts up it’s voice in support of those who live with autism.
But it’s so much more than awareness. On this day, parents and loved ones are uniting across the world to speak out for children, teenagers and adults who live with autism on a daily basis. When those voices unite, the sound waves reach around the world.
Somewhere today, a parent has just learned that their child is autistic. Somewhere today, someone is wondering how they will pay for another doctor’s visit, when autism is not covered by their insurance plan. Today, a mother yearns to hear her boy say “Mama,” and a father wants to hear his name… “Daddy.” Today, a child is bullied in a classroom by someone who does not understand autism. And today, a family is searching for hope.
But I am here to tell you that hope exists! That our children have a future and a purpose no less than than of any other child. That each and every victory made by our ASD son or daughter should be celebrated just as much — and possibly more — than a touchdown or soccer goal. That God loves our autistic children with a love that is wide and long and deep. A love that has no limit. A God Who hears their little voices when they can speak, and if they cannot, He understands their movements, their expressions and cries. A God who hears their call and sees their every need.
There is no greater love than that of laying down one’s life for another. Parents of children with autism do this on a daily basis. And because of that, they are blessed with knowing the greatest love that exists.
I would not trade those victories– the hugs, the smiles, the laughter and each expression of love — for one moment. Not one.