My Son Has Taught Me to Live in the Now

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I do not have autism. I am not autistic. But my son is.

And watching and learning from him has been one of the greatest gifts life has given me.

He has taught me to slow down.

He has taught me to prioritize.

He has taught me what is important and what truly matters.

He has even shown me the good in this world. And the bad that is out there.

This is how he greets every member of our family after school.

He doesn’t have words. Just actions and sounds.

First he gasps. Then he waves.

Then he outstretches his arms and wraps each of us in a hug.

And let’s be clear.

This kid can give a stingy hug. But not after school. It’s an all in hug.

It’s as if he hasn’t seen us for years.

It makes me think that time is different for him. It’s not 7 hours. It’s a lifetime.

And maybe that comes from years of not being able to communicate. Or understand. Or be listened too.

I don’t know I guess. His brain is different than mine and all I can do is guess and interpret and learn.

My son lives in the moment and has taught us that there is only right now.

And how important it is for you to show people that you missed them.

Gasp. Wave. Hug them.

What a gift I tell ya. To be missed so much by such a precious soul.

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, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.

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Kate Swenson

Kate Swenson lives in Minnesota with her husband Jamie, and four children, Cooper, Sawyer, Harbor and Wynnie. Kate launched Finding Cooper's Voice from her couch while her now 11-year-old son Cooper was being diagnosed with autism. Back then it was a place to write. Today it is a living, thriving community of people who want to not only advocate for autism, but also make the world a better place for individuals with disabilities and their families. Her first book, Forever Boy, will be released, April 5, 2022.

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