This is for the parent who has fought back but who keeps falling down.  I know it’s tough.  Believe me, I know.  But hey, mama, get back up.  It’s not over yet.  Please, don’t dream it’s over. 

One Call Away by Charlie Puth

Years ago, I had a friend who was suicidal.  When we’d go stretches without getting the chance to see each other, I’d randomly get the urge to call her.  I used to joke and say that was the Holy Spirit tapping me on the shoulder telling me to call, “Hey, Cat, she needs a little boost.  Things aren’t going so well right now.  Take a minute to give her a quick call.”  Sometimes I’d ignore that little tap on my shoulder though.  If I did that, I’d soon get a slap upside the head, “CAT, CALL HER.  NOW!” and would finally made the call.  It would be then that I’d discover that yes, things were awful for my friend.  And each time I’d call, the friend would say, “I have no idea how you knew I needed to hear from you, but…you knew.”  This song is for the warrior mama who senses that another warrior mama or papa needs a quick phone call.  Sweet friends, when you sense that feeling, promise me that you’ll make the call. 

‘Till The End of Time by Perry Como

This song is for the grandparents who picked up the pieces and are now caring for their grandchild with autism.  For our AofA grandparent readers, especially for Granny Blue, my wish is that the love you have for your grandchild will extend beyond the end of time. 

Don’t Bring Me Down by ELO

For the parent who’s about to get lectured by the pediatrician, my best advice is to stay strong.  Be brave!  Don’t let anyone, especially someone doesn’t have you or child’s best interest in mind, bring you down.    

God’s Gonna Cut You Down by Johnny Cash

For that pediatrician who prefers to fire parents instead of help them, for that educator/administrator who’s more worried about saving money than providing appropriate education, and to that politician who’s a rotten, greedy sunofgun, this one’s for you. 

Heavy by Linkin Park and Kiiara

This one is for the siblings, like Ronan’s, who, despite the many ups and downs they’ve witnessed, keep putting one foot in front of the other.  They hold onto hope.  They keep smiling.  They stay faithful.  They, like so many other siblings, do all of that selflessly and with only the purest of love in their hearts. 

Believer by Imagine Dragons

And finally, the last song.  This one is for me, from Ronan’s siblings.  Ronan’s older sister and younger brother heard this when it first came out.  Both came to be separately and told me that it reminded them so much of me.  They said it made them think of how much faith I have in Ronan and that they believe in their brother because of how much I believe in him.  I was speechless.  I was humbled.  I was, and remain, grateful for these beautiful souls who’ve been entrusted to me. 

So, that’s a wrap.  Do share what keeps your toes tapping on a good day and what turns on the water works on a tough day.  And don’t forget – every day here is a great day for some autism action, and every day is a good day to turn up the volume and let the music in. 

Cathy Jameson is a Contributing Editor for Age of Autism.