Today is my younger son, Bronson’s, birthday.
I remember so clearly the day he came home from the NICU. I was so excited. Happy to have both of my boys together.
Brantley? He didn’t share the same enthusiasm. He cried. He tried to hit Bronson. He burried his face in my chest and cried some more.
I promised Brantley that Bronson would be his best friend. Words I prayed would come true as I watched Brantley slowly accept the fact that his little brother wasn’t going anywhere.
Then something happened.
I found a small red ball from Brantley’s ball pit in Bronson’s bassinet—a clear sign that Brantley had been there. I often wonder if that ball was Brantley’s way of showing acceptance, a gift to let Bronson know he was ready to play and be his friend.
Seven years later, Brantley and Bronson have grown into vibrant boys. Though the bassinet and ball pit are long gone, the promise I made Brantley lives on.
Bronson is Brantley’s best friend, and Brantley is his.
Bronson’s life revolves around his older brother’s needs—a reality of having a sibling with profound autism. Though he often misses out on things, he does so with grace, knowing how much he has gained from having Brantley in his life.
He is kind.
He is a protector.
He is a helper.
He is Brantley’s best friend.
Today, as we celebrate Bronson’s birthday, I can’t help but be thankful for the boy he is and the remarkable bond he shares with Brantley.
He often asks to watch the video from the day he came home, laughing at Brantley’s reaction. Afterward, he always seeks a hug from Brantley, his older brother and best friend, who welcomes him with open arms and no tears in sight.
Happy Birthday, Bronson. #autismfamily #autismlife #autismparents #specialneedsibling
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