Millo Aldea has seen incredible things in his life, but nothing as beautiful as his Autistic son.
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What is the meaning behind the word beautiful? Not the dictionary definition, but what is it that one feels when the word is said?
Uncovering Beautiful
Was there a time when you felt like something was missing? Even with a great life, excellent spouse, friends, and a solid job, has it felt as if something was still missing? Because just when you think you have everything, sometimes it feels you are empty inside. Life can still lack meaning, excitement, and beauty, even when everyone tells you that you have everything.
I have never seen anything more beautiful in my life than my son.
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I’ve seen amazing murals painted by Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino. I’ve witnessed the glowing Eiffel Tower at night. I’ve stared at a stunning woman walking down the aisle to marry me. My definition of beauty is when something, someone, or an event fulfills the lack of experiencing something meaningful, or when it evokes inspiring positive emotion at least for a short moment. I have never seen anything more beautiful in my life than my son. Nico fulfills whatever emptiness there is, or there was.
Nico was diagnosed with Autism when he was two years old. And yes, I was concerned and scared. After two years, I still am. But knowing this, it has made him even more beautiful to me. His innocence, his lack of understanding, his independence, and his many unique ways make him the one person that earns the most of my attention.
I’m not saying what’s the right or wrong thing to do as a parent. I’m just sharing with you how it is with me.
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My Aria
I have a daughter too. She is two. Aria is such a beauty, with such a personality as well! The total opposite of my boy. Extremely social, stubborn, fearless, and eats everything, unlike Nico. My Aria has me in the tip of her fingers. Because I dedicate more time to Nico, due to how much more help he needs, Aria (being my princess) doesn’t have to fight hard to get what she wants from daddy. I’m not saying what’s the right or wrong thing to do as a parent. I’m just sharing with you how it is with me.
The Challenges
It has been very hard dealing with Nico’s challenges. Things such as him not being able to chew food due to high sensory feelings in his mouth, and having to chop everything in little pieces for him. Communicating with him and understanding each other. Breaking routine and his explosive tantrums. His little sister quickly catching up to him. Worrying about bullying, schools, education, therapies, insurance and many other things. One of the most unfortunate aspects of dealing with an Autistic child is the money that companies and the “healthcare” system are wanting to take advantage of when dealing with Nico’s condition. They have never cared or asked me how is he doing. They are only concerned for what “he needs.” Sometimes sales people involved in a Network Marketing company swear that their product can “cure” people with Autism. They don’t seem to understand that Autism is not a disease. People don’t die from having Autism. That makes me very upset.
Without him, life is less of everything. With him, life is just so much better.
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But if that Autistic soul had to be born inside of someone, I’m glad it was my son. Because everyone has told me I’ve been blessed with him, but I also believe he is fortunate to have me as well. Because of the way I act with him and the things I’m willing to do for him, the sacrifices and what I’m willing to struggle with for him, like no other human being.
What’s next?
Nico has made me a better person. He has made me appreciate the little things and grow to like other children. Without him, life is less of everything. With him, life is just so much better. And he will have an extraordinary life. I know that for sure. He means something not just to me, but to everything that I now believe in. So he is well protected. Nico, I got your back!
What is a 21st century hero? Being an engaged and present dad. And we love to show how great dads are. Want more like this? Sign up for our daily or weekly newsletter here.
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Photo:Flickr /Barney Moss
Well written my friend, you and Ximena are so special, I knew it when I first met the both of you, so why wouldn’t you have extraordinary children? I read your words and hear your voice, I can imagine the father you are to him, regardless of the autism, you’re both great parents. The challenges that we face, that he will face are inevitable but he will overcome!
What a beautiful tribute to your son. He’s so lucky to have you as a father, as is your daughter. Sounds to me like you’re doing an amazing job.
Honest. Inspiring. BEAUTIFUL. I love reading about good men and openly scoff at the idea that there are none out here. Poppycock!!! I know that good men/dads exist. I’m in love with one now. And one of my goals is to always write about them so those who may not see them right away in real life, will know what to look for through my fiction. Check out ‘My Only Son’ if you have the chance. It’s free to read and it celebrates the greatness of the men that inhabit our communities and our world! http://www.bookrix.com/_ebook-danee-riggs-my-only-son/ – See more at:… Read more »