Gratitude

Having my kids has changed me as a person. It seems pretty common for most parents, whatever personality your child brings to the table molds the outlook you have on life and people around you. 
What has been inspiring are the changes that have happened to the people around us because of our children. Family and friends have told me learning about autism and knowing E-man and Little Buddy have given them a new perspective and that it has changed their actions. 
My 18 year old niece told me she went to a friend's party awhile ago. This friend had a special needs family member in his teens as well. He was a little awkward but eager to talk to people and my niece sat down and had a conversation with him. She told me later she thought about when E-man was older and trying to talk to people how she would want them to treat him. That she hoped a girl wouldn't shoot him down immediately because he was different. 
My sister said she doesn't judge parents who have kids that might act a little funny in public. Now she understands sometimes there is more to the story than what you see at a check out lane at Target. Not only has she had this realization she defends those kids to others not so accepting. 
Their grandparents have also changed. Knowing the kids' unique likes and dislikes, have gone out of their way to provide special things and time to spend with them. 
Sometimes it feels like I talk endlessly about their autism because I'm almost afraid family will forget. Obviously that isn't going to happen but it's this weird anxiety that I have. What's awesome is seeing that what I have said wasn't in vain. Our families understand when we have to take Little Buddy to a quieter location when things get loud. There have even been times I am so stressed out at a social gathering a quick thinking grandparent guides me in what to do, suggesting something I told them worked previously. People are listening, more than I thought. 
It means so much to me that not only are my children loved and accepted but fully embraced. Their oddness is OK.  Not every family facing similar challenges has the support we do. It makes me feel so lucky, so grateful to know my friends and family are listening, hoping, praying and loving us and the boys. I just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you.