Thursday, April 15, 2010

Say What You Mean To Say

One of the greatest things autism has taught me is how dear those around us who assist us in something seemingly small, offer a warm smile, or go the extra mile to make our lives a bit easier are.

I'm not saying I didn't take note of the good people around me before, I'm saying that maybe I didn't speak up as I should have to let them know that I appreciate them.

Many of us are not entirely comfortable with words or gestures of gratitude; myself included.   Is it that we as a society have gotten so far away from helping one another live life together, as a community, as a unit, that when we do work on each others behalf we almost feel surprised?  I'm not sure, but I know that I need you--each and every one of you--to help me walk through this crazy life.  I will try not to lean too hard on you, and I will try to lift you up when you need me.  But most of all, I, because of autism, will be more inclined to let you know just how much your lifting up means to me.

After much difficulty with my insurance company, I finally was connected to a person who gave a damn.  (and had an ounce of work ethic, I must also add)  She helped me accomplish something I'd tried for nearly two years to do.  Two years worth of hours of phone calls, transfers to rude and incompetent representatives, mysteriously lost or 'not entered' information about previous hours worth of calls.  And tears.  Lots and lots of tears. 

And, so, because this representative finally did the thing that no other seemed to be able to do, I made damned sure that I asked to speak to her supervisor to tell him so.  She humbly obliged a phone transfer and thanked me.
It took 30 seconds for me to do that, and I hope that in turn she eventually gets a pay raise or a promotion.  You never know...it could be something so seemingly small that assists her in life a bit too.

So thank you--all of you--for what you do for my family by reading this blog and telling others about the trials and tribulations of life with autism.  Thank you for emailing me and calling me to let me know you love me and are thinking of me.  Thank you for praying for us, thank you for lighting a candle for us.  Thank you for being kind to other families living with autism because you care about mine.  Thank you.

8 comments:

little miss mel said...

Thank YOU Debbie for giving me an honest insight in your world. You have taught me things I may have never known. Thank YOU for being the courageous one.

Congratulations to you and M. You both have worked so hard and it's paid off. Wonderful news!!

Valerie Foley said...

You're welcome.

And thank you too. When you hash out a problem, I get tips on how to attack mine.

:)

Casdok said...

Autism has taught me the same. As well as writing emails of complaint! I also write thank you ones.

Good luck with the teeth.

Ro said...

Good to hear the good ones getting a pat on the back ;)

sarah said...

Thank you for being so open, honest, dedicated, loving, and thoughtful. truly.

Anonymous said...

exactly what Sarah said!

One Mom said...

Thank you for being so honest in your posts. It's not easy to share all of the baggage that comes along with having a child with autism, and you do it with such grace.

On good days, and bad days, and all those others in between, we're with you.

Mama Deb said...

Thanks, everyone. Sorry I have been so distant lately. I think this lovely allergy season has my body and mood entirely out of whack. Hoping to regain a bit of myself back next week!

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