Big Jack

I've had a few thoughts about big Jack today, well, over the last few days.  We were reading last night for his homework and we had a special moment.  The book - You're Only Old Once by the good Dr. Seuss.  Norval is a fish that resides in an aquarium in a doctors office.  There is a point in the book when the main character, an old man, is sitting in a chair and talking to Norval who is staring at him with big eyes that have a look of great concern.  If I am remembering the words correctly I think it talks about Norval being sympathetic.  We paused from the story and I shared with Jack that Norval was a good listener, someone people could talk to about anything and be safe.  Jack's eyes got big and in complete seriousness he said "I could talk to someone like that".  He seemed to have great relief when he said it.  I told him that he could always talk to me about whatever is on his mind.  It was actually quite a special moment when all the tenderness of Jack's heart is right out there in the open, we both had tears in our eyes and had a little hug.  I sat and thought about the way he said that and how relieved he seemed to be that he could talk to someone.  It made me wonder what all does he have inside that he has not talked to me about.  How can I help him feel comfortable speaking about things?  Actually, speaking is not a problem for Jack, he can talk your ear off.  Is there something he is trying to communicate but cannot?  I don't know, maybe I am reading too much into it.  I just want to be the dad he needs me to be.

I stopped in to say hello to Mrs. Coonan this morning after dropping Andy off in his classroom.  We talked about Jack's day yesterday which was a bit frustrating for him.  He and I actually had a good conversation about that yesterday evening.  He did good recognizing situations and did his best to act appropriately, struggled a bit but it was ultimately a positive thing.  We discussed having a meeting where we teach Jack about autism and why some things a hard for him.  We will also discuss strategies that help him to best handle himself especially when things aren't going his way,  That is set up for Thursday.  Should be a good morning, nay, it will be a wonderful morning. 

Well Big Jack, we press on my boy.  I will do my very best to be like Norval for you.