Transforming Life & Taste Buds: A Journey of Patience

autism change special needs parenting transformation Jan 12, 2015

Dear Sisters in Faith,

I trust this letter finds you well. I wanted to share a heartwarming story about my son, Jacob, and the wonderful journey we've been on. It's a journey that has taught me so much about patience, faith, and the beauty of trying new things.

You see, Jacob, my 12-year-old, has high-functioning autism. One of the challenges we faced as a family was his limited food preferences. Like many children on the autism spectrum, he was resistant to trying new foods. It used to be a battle to get him to eat anything beyond his comfort zone.

However, I came across an article which said it takes about ten tries to develop a taste for something new. Armed with this knowledge, I decided to give it a try. I started by setting aside a small bowl with a few spoonfuls of our family meals specifically for Jacob and his brother, Nathan, who also has autism. They were encouraged to eat at least that much of the meal, even if it was something they hadn't liked before.

The results were incredible. Over time, I witnessed the transformation of their taste buds. Foods like beef stroganoff, chicken alfredo, kidney beans, and yes, even broccoli, started to become favorites. Now that they're in their teens, they eat enormous servings of dishes that were once off-limits.

This experience has been a blessing for our family. It's helped us create a more inclusive menu where everyone can enjoy the same meals. Of course, we still have a few food items like potatoes that we're working on, but we'll get there. It's a journey of patience and persistence.

I wanted to share this story with you as a reminder that sometimes, we need to be patient and persistent in our own journeys. Just as my sons had to try new foods repeatedly before developing a taste for them, we may face challenges that require time and perseverance. It's a beautiful reminder that small steps and consistent efforts can lead to transformation and growth.

In the Bible, we often see stories of patience and faith. One verse that comes to mind is Galatians 6:9 (KJV): "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not." This verse echoes the message that, in our efforts, we may not see immediate results, but with patience and faith, the harvest will come.

I pray that, like Jacob's journey with food, you find the strength to persevere in your own challenges. Know that your persistence, even in small steps, can lead to beautiful transformations in your life.

Blessings and faith,

Tamara K. Anderson

Transforming Life & Taste Buds: A Journey of Patience

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