A 33-Year-Old Temper-Tantrum

Many of you already know this, but we have a very special boy on our hands.  Well actually, we have 3 special little boys, but one little colony member, in particular, is very complex and emotional.

For the past few months we have been taking Zeke to a couple of Psychologists to  narrow down what the root of his issues might be.

At first our minds were reeling at the realization that he may have Aspbergers or Autism.  After a series of testing we were told that he may have some Autistic tendencies and learning habits, but we can rest assured that we are not going to have to walk down that path.

Relief.

We are now going down the path of learning disabilities ranging from Dyslexia to delayed cognitive recognition and processing disorders.

We have a lot to pray through as we decide the right steps to take to get him the help he needs.

But that doesn't explain the extreme emotional outbursts and sensory issues that erupt inside (and a lot of times OUTSIDE) Zeke's little body.

These issues stem from anxiety.

Wow, our little almost-6-year-old has an anxiety disorder.

It shouldn't come as a surprise to me, seeing as I battle anxiety on a daily basis, and have since I was (at least) 4!

Zeke's anxiety triggers some of his learning problems, extreme emotional outbursts, fear, obsessive tendencies and many other facets.

When I would initially observe his temper tantrums or "freak-outs", I would just stare at him in disbelief, wondering how in the world such a sweet, loving little boy could flip a switch so instantaneously to act like this.

Then we find out he is struggling with the same inward battles I struggle with every day, but it is exacerbated on an even higher level...it's a wonder he can hold it together as much as he does!

I mean, if I'm honest with myself I'd realize that if I were 6 I'd be "freaking out" the same way he does.  In fact, I DO, just in a 33-year-old kind of way.

We ALL have our own ways of "freaking out", don't we?!

We may not stomp our feet and scream, running around the yard like a chicken with our head cut off (or maybe I you do;), but when this weary mom let's her guard down and allows impatience to set in I can raise my voice with the best of 'em.

I am realizing now, more than ever, that I need to be the calm in his storm.  I need to exemplify the restraint and self-control that only God can offer.

I need to quit my 33-year-old temper tantrums and mom-up.

We are going to get through this together!