Every day I wake up and remind myself, one day at a time, one challenge at a time. I love my adopted daughters with all I am but both have but both are challenging due to their respective issues. Throughout their lives with me, and even now that the oldest has moved out the struggle every day was real and it hurt on so many levels. I got through it though and want to encourage you all through what I have learned. The first step is acknowledging the grief that comes with lost dreams as you realize what your child may or may not be able to do in the future. It can be so isolating and lonely when you see other people’s kids doing what yours will never do. Reach for help, talk to someone do not allow your sadness to overcome you. Another huge helper is when you can train yourself to look at the gains but from a different perspective. No, my child cannot read great works of literature but she can read signs for safety and direction and that will be much more useful in her life. The last thing I would say is critical and I struggle with too, is to remember to give yourself grace. You are doing the best you can with what you have and be sure to surround yourself with people who will support you and not be critical. Stay strong and know you are enough.