That’s the question I was asked this week by one of my extended family members who wanted to know how my kids were doing. Good question. I have often wondered why and how my kids acquired their special needs. I wonder why my son survived a very traumatic birth and other children don’t. I wonder why all three of my children have had to struggle through life when other’s children seem to go through life with ease. I have had people tell me that I “must have been too active during my pregnancy” and “maybe if you would spank her more, she’d behave better…” I’ve questioned whether or not my children’s special needs are my fault. It’s taken years to answer these questions. Now, I’d like to share my wisdom with you.  

Only God knows why things on earth happen the way they do. He never said that life would be easy or that life would not give us more than we can handle. If you think you are normal; then, you just haven’t been diagnosed yet. (That’s a counseling joke I heard once and really liked!) We will all have our struggles on this earth. I just happen to get mine earlier than some. I have learned to live by faith, even when I cannot see the road in front of me (which is daily!). I learned a long time ago that planning my life out doesn’t work. I cannot worry about tomorrow. I hope for the best and prepare for the worst.  

Listen, my life didn’t turn out the way I wanted it too…but I wouldn’t change a thing. My short life has been a wonderful rollercoaster that has been amazing. Through the years, I have learned much, met amazing people and learned to love so much more than I ever dreamed. I am blessed and so is my family. God IS good, all the time.

Traci Castles
Family Voices in Oklahoma
Okvoices.org