Monday, March 17, 2008

The World's Best Friend

I have had the honor to work with a fine young man, Brian, for 11 years today. He has Autism. I remember his mother speaking to me about the word Autism and really, at the time, everyone was trying to figure out what the word meant. The world was on the verge of bringing it to light. There were all kind of theories and a few books written at the time. I am so grateful that the word Autism is now spoken to the world and is being studied further. I have learned with Brian that there is no way to place each individual Autistic child into one group, each child is so unique.

I have been honored to see how Brian sees the world. He is by far the most honest and loving child. He brings joy when you have had an awful day. He brings peace because his heart loves unconditionally and he fervently prays for you. He is as close to innocent as I could describe someone. I am a better person having him as a part of my life. I find joy in far more moments than I would have if I never knew him. He lights up life because God has surely favored him. He was a gift, a blessing, that God sent my way.

I believe God knew I was going to need Brian as I was becoming a mother. I applied so many of the teachings I learned working with him to my own son. I believe it is because of my time with him that helped my son succeed as well as he has. My son has a form of Autism called Aspergers Syndrome. I am sure God blessed me with Brian, so I could help my son as well.

Dear sweet Brian is the world's best friend and we are so lucky to be blessed by one exceptional boy!

1 comment:

Nicole said...

awww... what a sweet tribute to a truly sweet boy. I don't think a week goes by that I don't thank God for Brian and the time I was blessed to be part of their family! I too, learned sooo much in preparation for becoming a parent from Brian. I didn't know it at the time (and in retrospect I could kick myself for it) but God knew what He was doing and I am eternally grateful.

I am sooo thankful you have had the blessing to be part of Bri's life for so long now. Your influence on his life is immeasurable. God again, knew what He was doing when he created your friendship with him.

You are an amazing woman Tam! In sooo many ways...Mother, Wife, Daughter, Sister, teacher, and definitely "friend"...