I am the oldest of 4. It was just my sisters and I when my mom found out that she was pregnant for the 4th time and we were all even more excited when we found that this time around, it was a boy! When my little brother was born we already couldn't wait for him to be old enough to play, run, and maybe even just paint all over the walls! (Sorry mom) It's true what they say, its hard to pick out the signs of Autism at a really young age. My family and I didn't really notice any of them till my brother turned 3 and he hadn't said his first word yet, let alone wanted to interact with anyone. He enjoyed being alone and struggled to make eye contact with anyone. He wouldn't answer when we would call out his name and he never seemed interested to play with kids his age.
My little brother was diagnosed with autism at age 3, he is now 5. Its crazy to think that's only been 2 years but we often forget that this diagnosis is even there. Throughout this journey, I have learned a lot about myself and specifically now, I know that I have become a better sister. Here are just 7 of the many reasons why I believe having a sibling with autism is a blessing
1. When you have a bad day they try to make it better
To be completely honest with you, I lost count of all the mental breakdowns I've had when things aren't going so well but what I do know is that every single time my brother has been there to cheer me right up! Whenever he peeks around the corner and notices I'm upset he goes on full tickle attack mode!
2. You never have to worry about being alone
When you are the oldest and your siblings are young they are after you 24/7. But what happens when they start growing up and no longer think you're cool enough to hang out with?? I have always had a special bond with my brother in which I know I will never have to worry about him not wanting to spend time with me no matter how old he gets or how old I get. He will always think I'm cool!
3. They bring you an immense amount of happiness
I have no words to describe how full my life has been ever since my brother came into this world. The emptiness that I once felt, has been gone because my brother has done everything to fill it up with laughs, smiles, and unforgettable memories.
4. You learn... A LOT
Apart from learning how to work with them, how to always make sure you are satisfying their needs; You learn how to be patient, compassionate, and understanding. I personally have learned so much about the world itself thanks to him. His warm hugs and heart warming smile have taught me to always think positive and smile through every curve ball life might throw at me.
5. They bring your inner kid out
GUILTY OF WATCHING MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 1000 TIMES. Ok but who doesn't like singing along to their theme song right!? Also my brother loves to go on the slides whenever I take him to the park and I have no problem trying to beat him to them first!(Its ok,he always is faster and wins every time)
6. You get the opportunity to experience something beautiful
I mean it when I say this, my life would be so boring and colorless if it weren't for my brother. He makes everything so interesting and don't even get me started when it comes to school events! I have seen him lose himself playing a tambourine, dancing to itsy bitsy spider, or even just riding a tricycle in a gym full of people and not getting phase by it. And that's beauty, knowing his improving, learning, and growing!
7. You can make 100 mistake and they will still love you
I openly admit that I don't always make the right decisions, I'm only human. As my mother often says, I "want to eat the world in just one bite" meaning that sometimes I want to make decisions that I'm too young for. Even after every mistake, every failure, my brother has never looked at me any less and has always received me with his arms wide open.
As Adele Devine said "Children with Autism are colorful, they are beautiful. And like the rainbow, they stand out." I wouldn't be where I am today without my brother and all he carries. As much as the journey might be difficult at times, I wouldn't trade it for the world. Every time he says a new word, every time I hear him laugh or see him smile when he creates his art pieces on the walls of our home I am reminded of how lucky I am to be his sister. I will always be proud of him and all he keeps accomplishing. He will always be mine and my families biggest blessing.
