That lesson: selflessness.
Today’s world is filled with the need for more. Constant “I want this and I want that” with little consideration for what is truly important, health and happiness. From million dollar athlete’s refusing to play because they don’t get paid enough to politicians considering only what is good for them, not for the country, it is obvious to me that not enough people have found their cause. My boy, without even knowing it, has helped me find my cause; being an advocate for autism. Now I don’t expect to be like some of my favorite advocates, like Stuart Duncan of “Autism from a Father’s Point of View” who I really look up to, but my son has taught me that I can do my part. He has helped me recognize that my energy can be put behind making a difference in the lives of someone other than myself. Without even knowing it, he gave me the cause that I needed to support. He and his autism has given my life a purpose, when it could have simply lacked purpose. He showed me that I was not only here to be his Dad, but that I am here to be selfless and use my energy to help others through their struggles. I could never thank my boy enough for teaching me this valuable lesson.
So I close with a question. This question may be uncomfortable for you to answer, it may be easy, but it is one that must be asked; what is the lesson your child has taught you?