Adventure & Gratitude.
We had Chrysler Minivans growing up.
They were the ultimate family car (unless you count the Griffin’s cruiser van complete with curtains and mini blinds).
My dad, just like other 80s & 90s Midwestern Baptist men, had an epic mustache, served in a full suit and tie at church, and was the primary driver for his family. He seemed to always be the first in the car, waiting on us to roll in, find our seat (or row) and slam the sliding door shut.
He loved to take “The Scenic Route”.
This usually meant long, windy county roads. He loved it. But on the back roads my sister would get sick and I would get bored. So most of the time we won the fight and dad took the most direct route.
But there were times, where dad insisted and we ventured off into the craziest places and curviest roads.
He loves “the scenic route” to this day.
Me? I love the scenic route too now. Except when it comes to life events.
Sunday stroll? Great, give me adventure.
Job changes, new goals, new schools, and disrupted plans? No thank you. I’ve had enough adventure. Please mark me down for zero new adventures until I say otherwise.
But that’s not how life works - especially not for special needs parents. For instance, this is what our life has looked like with Jude.
Birth
Missed Milestones
Genetic Testing
Diagnosis
In-home Therapy
School
Another Diagnosis
Home School
ABA Therapy
Augmentative & Alternative Communication
It’s been a wild ride to say the least.
But this week Jude hit a milestone.
Using a tablet, unassisted, she chose her very first phrase to “say” on her own. Her finger touched the screen. The audio responded.
“Thank you.”
I cannot explain to you how exact, timely and perfect Jude’s choice was.
I am confident that Jude felt gratitude. The therapists gave her a chance to unlock all that has been sitting dormant in her body and brain for 12 years.
As for her dad?
I’m thankful that Jude may finally have an outlet to share her needs and wants with us.
I’m grateful that, with this device, we might get to know our daughter on a deeper level.
I’m amazed that amid the twisting, dreadful, maddening, joyful, bittersweet, adventurous path we’ve been on - God had our family right in the middle of his hand.
God, by his providence, led us through every single step necessary to get to one button.
On one app.
On one device.
On one day that has the potential to chance everything for the Roussins.
I’m still processing it all. I’m still having a hard time accurately describing the impact to my life, my family, my faith.
But I do know this. If my prayer or my praise could only be accomplished through a device . . .
I would mash the “Thank You” button until my fingers bled.
He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Colossians 1:17
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9
You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good. (Story of Joseph) Genesis 50:20