Preface

After reading the article “Hope for the Future,” published on 4 August 2026, my daughter wrote a response speaking on behalf of all dyslexic children’s ‘future selves’. Chrissie was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of 9. School and studying never came easy for her, but through perseverance, hard work and God’s grace, she is now a budding designer with a Master’s Degree in Architecture. I decided to publish the unedited version of her article so you can compare it with the picture in the preceding article and find hope for your child’s future, too.  (Maria Pretorius)

Am I doing the Right Thing?

Do you ever wonder if you’re doing it right? Or if your child might resent you for the decisions you have made for them? Especially in moments of frustration.

My mother used to say, “I brought you up in the Lord; now I have to trust He will do the rest”. I never fully grasped what she meant; maybe it was because of my rebellion against school as a teen. But I found comfort in this, knowing that not only is my mother my biggest cheerleader for everything she was and is, but she is also praying for me every day. 

The obstacles!

There are so many obstacles in a child's life, especially if they have neurodiversity. I’m in my mid 20’s now and most of what I remember of my schooling is something like this; Primary school - being very creative and loving art, Secondary school - trying to prove I can do things but coming home in tears every day, Sixth form - Rediscovering my love for art, and University - thrilled that I made it but trying to prove that I deserve to be there. 

Secondary was definitely the hardest. I would be angry at anyone who tried to help me because I was so frustrated with myself, but also knew I needed help. I was annoyed I couldn’t do it even though my peers could, and my teacher kept telling me it was basic skills. I even tried cheating once, but I got caught in the act… by the friend I was copying answers from. She never told the teacher; she sat with me, helped me, and said it’s better to ask for help than look for the easy way out. 

You can’t fix everything. 

It is not easy growing up with neurodiversity! There are so many challenges even in the workplace; I got spell-checked in an interview once, which was so embarrassing. But there is nothing more my parents could do that would have magically taken all the problems away. They loved me for who I am; they supported me and cheered me on when I felt like there was no hope, and they prayed for me and with me through every problem.

I have so much respect for parents of neurodivergent children; your sacrifices and strength are inspiring. You move heaven and earth for your children; we see it and appreciate it so much more than we show. Thank you! 

You can’t fix all the problems or fight all our battles. I’m so grateful that my parents taught me about God’s comfort. Jesus is the greatest comforter. The day my parents weren’t there to fight my battles, I knew who to turn to. God brought so many wonderful people into my path who have helped and encouraged me, especially in the Church. 

There is hope; God is our hope!