May 11, 2023
Two Brothers Side-By-Side
I’m raising two boys side-by-side. There is barely two years between them.
When I found out I was pregnant with my second son all those years ago…I had plans. Big ones. Visions. Expectations.
Best friends.
Teammates.
When the oldest was diagnosed with severe nonverbal autism it all changed. Ever so slightly at first. Than greatly over time.
They didn’t play together.
They didn’t even acknowledge each other.
But time…it has a way of healing and growing. Understanding comes. Loyalty. Love. Devotion. And advocacy.
Tonight I watched the one with no words run for the pool when the younger one and his friend did.
He has been glued to them for an hour.
I’m not sure he understands what they are playing. Or even the jokes they make. Heck I don’t understand their jokes.
But they laugh every time he shoots them with a squirt gun. They chase him. They tickle and tease and play too.
He has no words. But he gets his point across. And they seem to understand him too.
It’s a gift I tell you. These moments. The ones I expected all those years ago.
I don’t take them for granted either.
I’m just so thankful.
‘Here’s the game buddy. This is what we are going to do…’ – the younger brother.
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook.
