Making Good Choices

We have hit a high plateau, and I am LOVIN' it! We have found a good dose on meds for Ian, his diet is improving, he is eating dairy again with NO signs of any allergic reaction, and he is working very hard to be the master of his emotions. That last one is probably the hardest of the three, because it requires a conscious decision on his part to make it work. But he is doing it. He is making good choices.

The other day he wanted to do something that was out of the question. He started to throw a tantrum. In the calmest voice I could evoke, I asked him if he felt that was a smart way to handle the situation. He calmed down a little bit and tried to make his point for getting his way. I remained firm in my decision to deny his request. Finally, he sighed and said...(drumroll)..."I will accept 'no'." And the argument ended. Just like that he walked out of the room and went on with his day. He even had the nerve to have a good attitude!

Although it seems as if this change in him occured over night, I know that it is a culmination of the last few years of hard work on Ian's part. There is also the influence of therapists, teachers, physicians, and a terrific psychologist who have all introduced him to new ways of coping with this strange and demanding world. It is as if the brick wall of autism that has insulated him from the rest of us, is suddenly starting to crumble. It isn't going away, per se; but it is letting in some light for Ian to see outside and try some new experiences.

For the first time in almost seven years I am beginning to feel the weight on my shoulders lighten just a bit. My jaw is not permanently clenched. I can let go of the stress a little longer each day. I can hug a friend and not feel the need to cry on her shoulder. It's a good place to be.