"Daddy, Why do I have Autism?"

Sunday, April 3rd was the first annual Hirning Family Ride for Autism Awareness. Matthew, Torrey & I headed out for a little bike ride to raise awareness for Autism. We didn't wear signs or blast propaganda. It was a simple bike ride with the kids. I did, however, invite all of my cycling friends from all over the country and world to ride wherever they live for Autism Awareness. I heard from some, others I did not, and that's OK.

My son asked me earlier that day, "Daddy, why do I have Autism?". As we rode, I pondered the question. The more I thought about it as I pedalled, the clearer the answer became. I still stick with the answer i gave him. "You were given Autism so that Mommy & I can learn more about it and help other people. We also have learned more about nutrition because of it and are healthier for it. Thanks to you, and your Autism, Mommy & I are better people". I can't even begin to count the number of people my wife has touched because of her knowledge of bio-medical treatment for Autism and GFCFSF nutritional information. There are TONS 9and those are just the ones she's told me about). I have been able to offer help as well. There was a lady at my daughter's dance class and we started talking nutritional stuff and I was there holding my own. She was listening and I was actually telling her things she didn't know (all because of my wife's knowledge). My wife is amazing. If you haven't yet, check out her blog here. If a dumb schmuck like me can learn from her, I know you can too.

I feel that we are given the "gifts" we have for a reason. My son, with his Autism was given to us to help others going through the same things. Maybe at first it was to teach us patience or compassion, but now it is to share what we've learned.

So what's your gift?