There are so many days that I feel like we are off track, overwhelmed, in over our heads. Meeting Sylas' needs is a full time job and then I feel guilty because I worry the other kids get overlooked. I'm worried about how stressful it is for them. I know how hard parenting a special needs kiddo is so I can't imagine being a sibling. It's something I'm always struggling with. And then I get a sign that we are on the right track.
We went to pick this sweet guy up at school the other day and before we got out of the building he stopped and opened up his backpack and pulled out two pieces of candy. He said, "Sylas this one is for you and this one is for me." It dawned on me that this is something Brayden does every day. Every single day this kid gives Sylas one treat or reward without question.
When we got home that evening and Sylas was in another room I thanked Brayden for always sharing and asked him why he gave up his treats. His response about made me cry. First he looked at me like I was crazy. Then he said simply, "Well I just work really hard all day to get lots of rewards because I know Sylas works hard every day but still never gets rewards because people think it's not as good. So I will just get a lot so he can have a treat every day too."
That boy makes me so damn proud! What a heart! And he is exactly right. Sylas works his butt off everyday to do what so many people do without question. And in society's eyes it is very rarely good enough. I can count on one hand the number of good day notes or prizes that child has received. But his brother knows how hard he tries and his brother has his back. It may not always be easy or pretty but we are doing something right. If nothing else this sweet boy has compassion! Love him!
