Your Testimonies

For the last two weeks, we have invited you to share your “testimonies” with us—stories of “tests” you have faced, and what you have learned as a result. We are incredibly touched by your willingness to share your personal trials and heartaches with us, and the resiliency you have shown as you highlight the ways you have grown both personally and interpersonally through these difficult times. Here are those testimonies, shared with permission:

-       Finding out our son has Asperger’s at the age 10… I'm stronger than I thought I was, and as a couple, I am even stronger. With the love and understanding of God, friends and family, I can do anything.

-       The illness of my mother and forgiveness… When people don't feel good and are confused about themselves, they may be really mean and you have to let it go.

-       I have a son with autism… Perfection is not what I thought it was. It is being happy with what you have.

-       Losing my sister in law to cancer Jan. 2013. She was only 41 years old, leaving 2 young children 3 and 7 years old…. There are no guarantees in life, every day is precious. My faithful sister in law graciously accepted that this was all in God's plan for her, she passed with complete peace. She left a legacy of great faith that will endure in everyone who knew her.

-       In the span of two years both my husband and I lost our jobs, lost our house, moved 3 times, relocated cities, our oldest son was officially diagnosed with Asperger's, gave birth to our youngest son, and dealt with the very sudden and unexpected death of my younger sister who also happened to be my best friend… I have learned that life and loved ones are the most precious things in this world. Put your faith in the eternal, not the temporary, because no matter how secure the world around you may seem there is truly no guarantee on even our next breath and life can change in an instant. Give thanks for what you have and take time to learn what is truly important to you. Don't let the sun go down on your anger. Say what you mean, what matters in your heart, and let those around you know how much you love them. You may never get the chance to say it again. (Joanna Francis)

-       Cancer… Life is a gift to be lived fully

-       Having my child "diagnosed" by a school district as emotionally disturbed and knowing that was incorrect and pushing forward until getting a diagnosis from several doctors as Asperger’s… You can't just accept things sometimes you have to go with your gut feelings and continue fighting.

-       Having my mother, father and father in law all pass away within 6 months of each other… I am only one person and as hard as I try, I cannot be everything to all people. I have to accept that I can do what I can to the best of my ability and not feel guilty about not doing more or the “what if's” of the world.

-       I have had 2 significant tests in the last 4 months. My Mom died after fighting cancer for 11 years and my husband of 30+ years attempted suicide… My sister and niece came to live with us 6 months ago. After Mom died, me & my sister would talk and cry about Mom every day - helping each other heal. When my husband attempted suicide, my niece intervened and saved his life. There really is a greater plan for all of us.

It’s true that life’s tests are often unexpected and even unwanted. Yet when we are able to see the gifts that help us deal with them, or that arrive as a result of facing a difficult test, we are able to experience and even celebrate personal and/or interpersonal growth.

Thank you for sharing your testimonies with us! The nine people who took time to share their experiences will all be receiving a free copy of ASD to Z as a token of our appreciation. The next opportunity to win free resources will be during April, which is Autism Awareness Month. Stay tuned for more information!