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Dear B-
You were meant to be an autism sibling. You didn’t know this when you were born – and, truthfully, neither did we.
We didn’t know when you were born that you would be a brother, let alone a brother to our non-stop, nonverbal, ping-pong ball whom we call Mr. Diggy.
And we certainly didn’t know that you would possess the calmness, the resilience and the stability to be the brother that he truly needs.
Thank you:
For always being willing to help – even with odd requests (can you please get the empty Kleenex box off the bottom of the pool?).
For being flexible – missing events that would overwhelm him, leaving parties early, and for getting takeout instead of eating out.
For being empathetic – helping us manage – and “translate” – your brother, especially at the end of the day as our patience wears thin.
For being considerate – serving Mr. Diggy his vitamins, refilling his water bottle, and helping to clean up his messes (like Dust-Bustering the entire container of dishwasher powder that he dumped on the couch).
For having a lot of perspective – realizing that different things are easier and harder for different people, including and especially your brother.
Our Autism Sibling Wish:
We wish for you…
To not have to worry about your brother, but know that you will always love him.
To be able to forge your own life, but know that you will always find a way to include him.
To be able to travel widely, freely and easily, but know that you will also be able to travel with Mr. Diggy to special places.
To be able to educate yourself continually, but know that Mr. Diggy is perhaps our best teacher when it comes to patience, flexibility and humility. .
To be able to find your own independence, but know that your brother may never have his.
We know this is a lot to carry on your slender, teenaged shoulders, but this is the life that we have – and it is richer and more full because of your brother.
You are part of a club that you didn’t sign up for, and, in our family’s chapter, you are the only member.
Just know that we are using everything we learn in our life as an #autismfamily to move ourselves forward, not backward.
We are so fortunate to have you on this ride with us.
Love,
Mom
Do you have an autism sibling in your home? Comment below with what you do to support your autism sibling.
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