Looking Forward with Hope

So, people are sharing summaries of their year, which is really lovely to see. Thank you for sharing. To be completely honest, this year has probably been one of the worst ever, and anyone who knows me knows that’s saying something. There have been positives, the birth of my great-nephew being the best. However, most of the year has been extremely difficult, lonely, and anxious. It involved learning about autism; battling schools, LAs, health service providers, people’s ignorance; caring for and protecting my family; hospital visits (only a few for me!); meetings; and not being listened to or taken seriously. I could go on and on. There have been positives, such as meeting new people online and in real life, who inspire me. This incredible group of autistic women, whose stories helped me finally make sense of my own, new freedom to be myself. New friendships. My wonderful husband, who is like a lighthouse in a storm. The friends who have checked in on me, even when they were unsure how to help. My friends who have prayed tirelessly when I was unable to. My sister, who continues to make me proud and strives to be a better person each day. I can only look to 2019 with hope—hope for my family. In recent weeks, things have started to come together for my daughter, so I can look forward to her future with hope. I hope you will also find hope and happiness in the new year.