Breathe

Lately I have been struggling to keep it all together.  There are days  (or weeks) where it is all just too much.?  The last few months have taken their toll on me.  I am trying to just keep my head above water.  I know that some days are going to be harder than others, unfortunately we have had a seriers of hard days recently.  Many of my fellow Spina Bifida mothers are posting this on their blogs and throughout Facebook.  It is just the reminder I need to slow down and take a deep breath

The Ten Commandments for Parents of Special Children

1.Take one day at a time, and take that day positively. You don't have control over the future, but you do have control over today.

2.Never under estimate your child's potential. Allow him, expect him to develop to the best of his abilities.

3.Find and allow positive mentors, parents and professionals, who can share with you their positive experiences, advice, and support.

4.Provide and be involved in the most appropriate educational and learning environments for your child from infancy on.

5.Keep in mind the feelings and needs of your spouse and other children in the family. Remind them that this child does not get more your love just because they get more of your time.

6.Answer only to your conscience, then you will be able to answer to your child. You need not justify your actions to your friends or the public.

7.Be honest with your feelings. You can't be super parent 24 hours a day. Allow yourself jealousy, anger, pity. frustration, and depression in small amounts when necessary.

8.Be kind to yourself. Don't focus continually on what needs to be done. Remember to look at what you have accomplished!

9.Stop and smell the roses. Take advantage of the fact that you have gained special appreciation for the little miracles in life that others take for granted.

10.Keep and use your sense of humor. Cracking up with laughter can keep you from cracking up from stress.

Author Unknown.