I'm not Sorry

Yesterday I was waiting in the eye doctor's office and there was an older couple sitting across the room, waiting also. It was such a warm day, and being the Californian that I am, I HAD to wear my sandals ;)

The wife said quietly (but I could still hear her talking) to her husband, do you see the puzzle piece tattoo on her foot? He kinda just nodded and said "Hmmmm....". A few minutes later, he asked me what the story was behind my tattoo. I told him that puzzle pieces are the national symbol for Autism and that both my children are on the Autism Spectrum. He sorrowfully said, "Oh, I'm so sorry." I quickly replied with a, "I'm not sorry." I went on to explain how wonderfully blessed we are to have such special, unique little boys. That I get to experience things and see things that other parents don't get to. I said that it we are so blessed and thankful for our boys and God didn't make any mistakes.

I light up when I talk or think about my boys. A joy comes over my heart that I can't express and immediately results in a smile, so I'm pretty sure that I didn't come off as upset or angry as I explained how grateful I am for my sweet little guys. But it's true: I'm not sorry for any of their circumstances. They are 100% perfectly created. PERIOD. There is nothing to be sorry about. We absolutely have our struggles and challenges; but that has only made us stronger as individuals, parents and a family. And let's face it, what parent doesn't face a struggle with any child, special needs or not?

I got to tell this couple that I am so happy that I have kids with Autism. They challenge me to view things in a way that I never have before. I also got the wonderful privilege of telling them a little bit more about Autism, because they admitted they knew very little about it. Getting to spread Autism awareness is such a big deal for me, and I was so happy that 2 more people knew just a little bit more about it thanks to Christian and Daniel. :) And come to find out, they asked about the puzzle piece, just because they both really loved puzzles, so they thought it was interesting that I had puzzle pieces tattooed on my foot. :)

Psalm 139:13-14- For you formed my inward parts;You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous works are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.

I love you boys more than I could ever put into words. I love every quirk, every challenge, every victory, everything. YOU ARE wonderfully made. :)