Back to work?

Is it a good time to go back to work, or not? This is a question...
I have stayed at home for the last year. I thought it was important
that I was "on call" and available at all times during Cirwen's first
year in secondary school. This also coincided with Little Dragon's
first year in the nursery.

As you know from my previous posts, it proved to be the right
decision, as there were so many problems. Most of the bullying
issues have been sorted. Cirwen grew up emotionally and
socially during this time and developed a lot of new coping skills.
She achieved so much, she has been recognised, she excelled in
her subjects of interest.

But. I know, there always be a but, because I am so protective...
It doesn't mean all the problems are solved and there will be
new issues next year.

On the other hand, I can't just stay home for ever and when the phone
calls pick it up thinking "is she crying or is she happy?". I need
a bit of my own separate life. Away.

I am searching half heartedly, at the moment, as I still fight with
my own thoughts. Am I ready to let her be even more independent?
Is she ready for that? Will my new employer understand the challenges
we are facing every day just to lead a normal life, and that sometimes
a usually a small problem turns into tragedy? For many businesses
hiring a mother means days off to deal with children's sickness, school
plays etc. Hiring a mother of an Autistic child may seem a higher
risk.

Well, I'll see how it goes. I am back in the job market. With all my
fears, I cannot forget that I am not alone and if I can't deal with
something there's always their Dad. My darling husband, who
has been looking after Cirwen all those primary school years while
I was working full time. I realise now, I have taken over with
a thoughtless force of I'm here now, I will do it.... I'm sorry dear G.

Ian Dury - Spasticus Autisticus -

I have just watched a DVD. "Sex And Drugs And Rock'nRoll".
It is a story of Ian Dury - the founder of Blockheads, singer,
songwriter, musician. His lyrics were witty, provocative and
gave inspiration to many.

As a child, Dury suffered from polio, spend time in the home for
children with disabilities .Watching the flashbacks, the homes approach
to these kids seemed to me, emotionless, cold and degrading. It is
important to know, that the word"spastic" was haled derogative only in
the early 1980s.

In 1981, Ian Dury was asked to write a song for charity. It was also
supposed to boost his carreer. And so he did write a song.
"Spasticus Autisticus". Provocation sang to "those in the normal
world". Strangely enough, it didn't last on air for a long time, as some
members of public were offended by it. Strangely enough those offended,
were NOT the disabled people. As Dury said himself, people with
disabilities don't want sympathy, they want respect.

I personally like this song very much. It is a statement shouted right
into the face of false charities, narrow minded system and society.
It is what I want for my daughter: respect, inclusion and appreciation.

Here it is. If you think you might be offended, don't listen:

More praise for Cirwen!

My daughter's success made it to the local newspaper!
It's not the first page and it's not a big article, but all the
same.

Cirwen's story has been recognised and published in
Evening Post.

Although a few weeks after the award ceremony, I
still had tears welling in my eyes from joy and pride.

Here it is:

"Talented Cirwen shines on stage"