"Life is too short. I can't control everything in my life. Trying to is exhausting!!" - member of MyAutismTeam

When a parent first learns that her child has autism, a common fear is a lack of control over our lives. Will I be enough to meet my child's needs? Why didn't I see this coming? How do we grab the reins back and fix the situation? Loving a child with autism forces us to recognize what we can and cannot control.

Members on MyAutismTeam have various strategies for letting go of control and fear, including:

1) using guided imagery to visualize letting go

2) opening up and trusting others

3) taking some time to be alone, whether it's a walk or a cup of coffee

4) reaching out for support from other parents on MyAutismTeam

Here are some conversations on MyAutismTeam about letting go:

• "Just be patient, learn to breathe deeply and take one day at a time. I think the hardest part is realizing that my hopes and dreams for my child may not his plan. Once I put this into perspective, I was able to let go and do what I needed to do to help him."

• "Very happy that my oldest son is increasing his work days. His self-confidence is increasing and I'm pleased. However, I stopped by his group home and his living space was a disaster! I don't want to add pressure right now, but it is really driving me crazy! I have to let go through."

• "I need to let go of MY ideas of what he should do for Christmas that will make me happy and follow his lead. He makes me proud in other ways. I learned last night that I shouldn't force my idea of 'happy Christmas memories' on him. Just because other families get to have them doesn't make my unconventional Christmas memories less meaningful."

Have you had moments of letting go just when you needed it most? What helps you 'let go' of things out of your control? Share in the comments below or directly on MyAutismTeam.com