Slow Down

Everything was packed, the kids were loaded up- it was close to 5 am. It was a race (at least in my mind.) We were going to make it from Northwest Indiana to Vermont in as little time as possible.
It should have taken about 13 hours but if we eat in the car, use a potty chair for the kid/s, and deprive ourselves of any enjoyment we could make it in under 12.
This story played out a couple of times a year for 10 years. One time when Jill was pregnant we only stopped 3 times in the course of that trip.
Every time we would drive right by Niagra Falls, and never stopped. We didn't have time for that, we only had time to get to our destination. The journey was not for enjoyment, it was a neccesary evil.

The race mentality could be an anology for my life. Mattthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

This was not true for my life.
I was only thinking/worrying about what was next. Patience may be a virtue but it wasn't my virtue (and is still a struggle).

There are many lesson's Kyle has taught me, but slowing down and enjoying each day of life is on the top of the list.

Kyle has one speed and it isn't close to being fast. This doesn't just apply physically but in conversation, and in the meticulous way he goes about his life.

He finds joy in many simple things, he views life through different lens than I do. He loves details, he wants to know how things work, he wants to know the intricate details. Whether that be a conversation and asking questions for hours on end,a piece of machinery, or a building project. Kyle wants to know everything about that particular subject.

Kyle's prognosis have also changed the thoughts about the future. It takes work for me to slow down, it is extremely difficult, but the peace that has enfolded our family has been great.

It isn't a race anymore, it is more like a leisurely stroll. Everything isn't a blur, there is beauty, and details. There isn't a frantic pace, there is an understanding that life goes at a slower pace.

This has been an extreme struggle for me. But when we are able to go at Kyle's speed we have found harmony, fun, and enjoyment for the rest of the family.

I am curious what are some of the things that your special needs child has taught you and your family? What are some of the ways the rhythm of your family has changed in a postive way?