One thing having a special needs child has taught me is that because we aren’t able to do things that other families can do, that doesn’t make our lives are less meaningful. It takes faith to live a life that may appear less meaningful to others.

I could easily sit around and have a pity party, rolling over in my thoughts all of the things I don’t have; why I had to have a child who appears broken to everyone else. After all, it’s understandable why I would feel “short changed.” But, is it really?

I don’t know why my child was born with the issues that he has. What I do know is he’s an absolute wonderful gift from God. He’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life and I’m proud of him. Living my life by faith in God’s word allows me to see inside the box, outside the box and all around it.

When you have a child with special needs, you have to have develop faith and let it guide you through life’s turmoils. Your child is counting on you to maintain a steadfast confidence that will take him through the storms of life.

We may experience more challenges than families with children that don’t have special needs, but our lives are no less meaningful.

How I Do It

On the weekends I spend most of my time with CJ but during the week since I work full time, nearly 2 hours away from home, I take as many opportunities as I can to enjoy life with him. Some of the things we regularly do include:

• Watching some of CJs favorite TV shows together like Martin (yes, he has an old soul LOL)
• Rolling cars back and forth with each other
• Sitting and holding each other

I often rush home a few minutes early from work so that I can spend more time with him. Then, on the weekends we eat together, play, go to church and watch TV.

On occasion, we have an event to attend with the Miracle League of Westchester. CJ plays baseball in the spring and the fall with the Miracle League. They also have special events throughout the year for the players and families. We have a year end BBQ and a holiday party.  In the summer, we watch movies out on the field.

Last weekend the Miracle League held a fund raiser where we all got together for our newly instituted annual event, Pasta Night. We haven’t been out in a while since CJ’s latest hospital stay so we were eager to get out and attend.

Every day from this moment forth, I plan to take the bull by the horns (no pun) and spend as much time with CJ as possible. As I said, he’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life and I intend to enjoy every moment with the most precious gift (other than salvation) that God has given me. Count on it.

What ways to you make life more meaningful for your family?