As our country celebrated a milestone, our family did as well. Over the years we struggled to enjoy the basic celebration of July 4th festivities. Our daughter had significant sensory issues and could not tolerate the sound of fireworks. She wanted to see BUT NOT hear fireworks.

When our daughter was young, we drove her around with headphones on so she could see the fireworks. When she grew more tolerant, we would literally rent a hotel room with a balcony to let her see BUT NOT hear them. I do not exactly remember when she changed course, but one day she said she was ready. So we watched from our neighborhood.

This year we rode our bikes downtown and fully engaged in the simple pleasure of watching fireworks on the 4th of July. This 4th was special. Persons living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), like so many of us, need our patience. Experiencing her success after so many years was sweet! One step at a time.