Defining 'success' AKA 'waxing poetic II'

[Jen]

When we created this category, I was hoping for a place where we could uplift each other- not to gloss over the struggles, but to spark the part in each of us to appreciate the 'miracles' we get to be a part of- many so 'small' by the world's standards that no one but those of us closest to our loved one on the Spectrum would even notice.
After reading some articles and blogs online today, I want to add that sometimes we forget that 'success stories' include our making it another day- as parents, especially, dealing with struggles in our own lives and relationships, we need to be compassionate w/ ourselves- not be too hard on what we might consider our 'failures.'
AutismNotes was founded on the idea that we can help each other through whatever we face- we mention being 'positive' here but 'positive' means more than just writing flowery views of our lives w/ ASD.  It means being a place where we share ideas and support- when someone is struggling w/ the burden that can come w/ ASD, we hope this is a safe place to come for support- when a situation feels desperate, we truly hope you can come here to find hope and to find a friend to hold onto until you can face the next challenge (and we all know there will be a next challenge).
While we do not allow 'bashing', there are times when a 'rant' is a success- you didn't keep it inside, where it can hurt. Looking for help is a success!!!
My children have taught me more about what it means to succeed- sometimes its a HUGE moment- like my post about jordan jumping off the high dive- often its a smaller, more subtle lesson. My kids have changed and shaped my life in a way I personally am grateful for. I struggle with their struggles, I have days where I feel like I fail them and those days hurt tremendously. But the successes keep me going- and so do you all. Your caring and committment are inspirational and i wanted to take a minute to let you know that.
Please help lift another -and yourself- by sharing and travelling together.