My coworkers: "Are you a mom? You're so good with kids!"

Me: "Haha, no. If I were a mom, I wouldn't have the energy to do this job."

My coworkers: "Okay, fair point."

I work with autistic and special needs children. I love it. The kids light up my days! But I also love that time after work when I'm home alone and can do whatever I feel like. I need my "me time" or I'd lose my mind.

Hats off to the parents out there, especially of special needs children. I see you, I feel your struggles, but I also see how awesome your kids are. I see so much talent in these little guys and it's a joy to be part of their journey.

At the same time, I can imagine how stressful your day-to-day life must be, and damn, I salute you for it. From having to learn sign language, to changing diapers well beyond toddlerhood, to dealing with insurance to get medical devices, I admire your tenacity and flexibility in doing whatever it takes for the sake of your child.