Once we never thought about what it is like to have a child with handicaps. When Rett syndrome entered our lives, we had many new feelings to confront; anger at what had happened, despair for the inability to cope, fear for the future, guilt that we may have done something to cause it, rage at not being able to understand why. At times, we have felt inadequate and found the situation overwhelming. Confusion and disappointment seemed to dwell in the dark clouds above us.
The good thing about clouds is that there is always a bright sunshine behind them waiting to bestow its warmth. Sometimes we have to wait a bit, but if we are patient, it will shine down upon us. It will surround us with the most wonderful things that can’t be overshadowed by darkness. We learn the value of life and appreciation for its smallest of blessings. Acceptance of the disability and our children’s limitations gives us the strength to overcome the challenges that we must all face, and in the process, we find ourselves stronger in the broken places. We learn to celebrate the joy of a smile, the importance of a touch and the endless power of love.
Each day is filled with a kaleidoscope of emotions. Some days are good and some bad. But sorrow never leaves us where it finds us. We do not have to dwell in the clouds forever; we can anticipate the dawn of morning and the bright rays of sunshine it will bring. Then we find ourselves better, not bitter. Restored, not broken. Filled with joy at what is, not despair for what could be. Rich with love so empowering that it can withstand any storm.
The Rett syndrome journey is a path that takes us up and down and has many winding turns, but it is a journey that leads us to a destination of acceptance, peace and the greatest love of all.
-by Kathy Hunter
Copyright 2008
