I’m going to start this by saying, i’m not here to debate my parenting or tell people what they should and shouldn’t do. I am relating a heartwarming story about my amazing children.

If this is the first post of mine you are reading, then let me give you some context. Both my children are ASD level 1, and have anxiety and have a history of issues at school and with other people. I am terrified for when they grow up, the world is a cruel cruel place. BUT.

Last night I got home from swimming and then picking up my oldest from violin. I was starving, and everyone else had eaten. I go to eat my portion, and all that was left was about 1/3 of a serving. So I take some deep breaths and go to make myself some other food. All the pots and pans were dirty. In order to cook something else, i would have to first wash the dishes. I stood in my kitchen trying to keep it together. My youngest saw something was wrong and came and gave me a hug. Then I lost it and started sobbing. My older son was doing homework at the table, and my husband was downstairs golfing in our basement. My older son looked up and said,”What’s wrong mom?” I stuttered out something about hunger and dishes and food. He said, in a calming voice,”as soon as I finish my math I’ll wash the dishes.” My youngest said,”Mom do you need to go be by yourself?” I hiccuped in agreement and went into my bedroom and sobbed uncontrollably for about 5 minutes, full on tears and mucus and cries of anguish that could no longer be contained.

Then, because I’m a parent, I pulled it together and went back to the kitchen. My youngest had loaded the dishwasher. I microwaved my 1/3 a meal and hand washed the frying pan, and fried 2 eggs to go with it. then I poured myself a glass of wine, and my youngest gave me another hug, whispering softly,”I’m sorry you’re upset.” I said,”i’m not upset with you, just the situation.” He said,”I know. want to watch a movie together?” As we sat down to watch ‘Shreck 2,’ my eldest, without being reminded, finished his homework and hand washed the pots and pans, and started the dishwasher running.

I always worry about my kids. But when they band together to help me and support me when I need it, I feel like they might be ok after all.