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From Struggles to Stars: The Transformative Joy of Parenting a Child with Autism

Anatta
26 min readNov 28, 2024

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A Special Needs Parent’s User’s Manual for the Heart

This is the guide I needed over 20 years ago when I first learned my path as a parent would look different. I didn’t know then what I know now.

My son received a diagnosis of moderate to severe autism. That moment shifted everything. The weight of it settled heavy, and I searched for direction, for something — anything — that could help me navigate the unknown.

If I’d had this guide back then, it would have been a lifeline.

Holding His Hand, Holding His World

The boy is mine, grown now, though his mind lingers in places others leave behind. Autism claimed its space in him, shaping him in ways both wondrous and shattering.

He stands apart, a mosaic of purity and disorder.

His heart breathes without the weight of ego. He knows no cunning, no deceit. In his world, envy and greed never take root. He walks through life untethered to the dark shadows most of us wrestle to bury.

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Anatta
Anatta

Written by Anatta

Buddhist practitioner and writer. My autistic son is the focus of my spiritual practice. He inspires me with his love and companionship.

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