The last few weeks, we’ve gotten some great comments from our readers, and it’s an honor and privilege to share our story with others and vice versa. As I’ve been able to converse with readers individually, I’ve realized how important it is to establish a network of those with whom you can share your experiences with (close or distant), even if they may or may not be on the same path.
There are times, especially with all of the unique quirks and challenges, of an inter-ability couple, that it’s wonderful to chat with others who are going through the same thing. We laugh at each other’s foibles and bounce off new ideas, picking each other’s brains. There are times when it’s a relief to tell stories or experiences without feeling judged.
Barton, from the time of his birth, has had to work around the judgments others made about him, his abilities and his potential. I am still working through judgments and how to handle judgments, both breaking through barriers and learning when, for my own soul-sake, walking away is necessary.
To be honest, there have been times where I have cared too much about what other people thought, and cut off even more because of harsh judgments that were made. My challenge has been to stay open to those who don’t agree with our relationship or the vision of where we are going in our lives.
At the same time, it’s been so beneficial to make connections with other inter-ability families who are successful in their relationships, business and family lives. We need success stories as points out on the horizon- we can get there too, if we keep walking, steady along the path.
In this global world where we have so many tools of communication, finding that network may not be as hard as you think. Whether it’s finding a Yahoo or Google Group, tele-conferencing, social networking sites, phone, email, or video, we can connect with the click of a button. Being connected in this way brings people together in new ways, who may never have otherwise met or connected.
Even if we don’t experience the exact same things in our lives, we can appreciate each other and support each other on our journey.
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