Community

     I don't know why I often feel like I have to qualify anything I write as coming from my specific perspective...no duh, right? Here are some of my recent thoughts on community based on happenings in my life. 

    In April we started with a daytime nurse. This was always a big fear of mine. I was afraid to go through finding a good person to care for my son. I have also been afraid of depending on someone in this way. It scares me that I might get dependent on her coming to care for Leo a certain amount of time a week and then what if something changes and now we have no more nursing. I don't want to be too overwhelmed by my own life that I can't live it. 

    Another fear that has been creeping in is, "Wow, Charis, 3 nurses?! Why do you need so much help? You should be able to do more on your own." We have two nighttime nurses and one daytime nurse (12hr a week). I know that voice in my head is wrong. But fighting it is hard sometimes. I believe that the reality is that no one does anything alone. We were made for community. This country and culture in particular can use a bit more of people depending and helping one another. I think that my generation can be so afraid of bothering someone that we rob ourselves of community. These nurses have been with us in very vulnerable times. They are family. They love Leo. They are part of our family. I am grateful that Leo's life pushes us toward community. 

    I also am reminded of growing up in Mexico. Mexico is much less individualistic that USA. Family and community are much more entangled in Mexico. I want to bring that part of my childhood into my adulthood. I want to live in a way that brings people around. I want to be community for others. I want to live life with people and ask for help. I want to help others. I just think these things can be so missed in our society today. 

    Also, I know that every parent with young kids needs help. Neurotypical kids or not, we all ask for help. So, all of this to say, I'm so grateful for community. I'm so grateful for the help that we receive. Thank you.