Autism
the mind of a child
who does not speak?
What thoughts?
What hopes?What fears?
What dreams?
locked behind his eyes—
Is he lonely?
how deeply he is loved?
he will find the words
to tell me—
His hopes
His fears
His dreams
who does not speak.
©Linda Kulp Trout
My grandson, Victor, is autistic. His verbal skills are mostly
limited to words and phrases. Communication is challenging, and sometimes
he becomes frustrated. He wants to be independent, but he needs
constant supervision in order to keep him safe. The world with its
sensory overload can be overwhelming and frightening for him.
But, autism is only part of who Victor is. Like other little boys, he loves to run and play. He loves to dig in the dirt and splash in water. He has a tender heart and a gentle way with animals. His infectious laughter sends joy through my heart.
Even with all his struggles, Victor is a lucky little boy. He was born to parents, my son and daughter-in-law, who are devoted to him in every way. They provide him with opportunities to learn and gain independence. They take him places and give him a wide variety of experiences. Raising a child with autism can be emotionally and physically exhausting, yet I’ve never heard a single complaint from either of them. They accept and love Victor for the creative, smart, and beautiful child he is.
You can read more about Victor here.
I am thankful for today’s roundup at Dori Reads.
But, autism is only part of who Victor is. Like other little boys, he loves to run and play. He loves to dig in the dirt and splash in water. He has a tender heart and a gentle way with animals. His infectious laughter sends joy through my heart.
Even with all his struggles, Victor is a lucky little boy. He was born to parents, my son and daughter-in-law, who are devoted to him in every way. They provide him with opportunities to learn and gain independence. They take him places and give him a wide variety of experiences. Raising a child with autism can be emotionally and physically exhausting, yet I’ve never heard a single complaint from either of them. They accept and love Victor for the creative, smart, and beautiful child he is.
You can read more about Victor here.
I am thankful for today’s roundup at Dori Reads.
Sending love your way, Linda. Thank you for sharing this post today.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Laura.
DeleteI'm so glad to hear that Victor belongs to such a loving, devoted family. Raising a child with different needs and abilities can be so challenging, but also so very rewarding.
ReplyDeleteYou're so right, Jane. There are challenges, but the rewards are much greater.
ReplyDeleteAutism is only part of who Victor is. YES. One of our sons is on the spectrum... they are special people with many gifts to give the world. Love to Victor and to his parents and to you!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Irene.
DeleteVictor is full of life despite the fact that his words are locked. Your words are touching and tender, Linda. May Victor and your family frolic in the sun this season and find much happiness.
ReplyDeleteYes, he is certainly full of life and brings us a lot of joy. Thank you, Carol.
DeleteIt's a loving poem, Linda, and as days pass, more of Victor will shine through. The rewards come daily from grandchildren. Thanks for sharing this poem with us.
ReplyDeleteYou are so right about the rewards our grandchildren bring us, Linda. I can tell by all the beautiful photos on FB that you are a wonderful grandmother!
DeleteYour poem is deeply moving, Linda. I can't help but think Victor would answer "Yes!" to your question "Does he know / how deeply he is loved?" Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteCatherine, I sure hope so. Thank you.
DeleteVictor is indeed a fortunate little boy to have such loving parents. Your poem is beautiful and captures so many of the emotions associated with raising a child with limitations. Blessings to you and your family and the joy that Victor brings.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Dori. Victor's parents are amazing! He also has an older sister, Evie, who lets him blow out her birthday candles! She is very protective of him and a very sweet sister.
DeleteWhat a beautiful poem for what sounds like a beautiful boy. It seems he blesses the lives of those who know him as much as he is blessed with loving parents and grandparents. I hope one day you are able to discover what you wonder about him.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kay. Having him in our family is a blessing.
DeleteLucky Victor, to have a supporting and loving family who values him for who he is! Beautiful poem.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful boy and beautiful poem to honor him. I do believe he knows. xxxx
ReplyDeleteVery touching. I believe he knows and loves, too.
ReplyDelete