I had heard about The Secret through different avenues, whether it was on television or visiting local bookstores. I was at first quite skeptical. The first time I viewed the film I was in an a apartment that I hated, I had no meaningful relationships and my finances were in ruin. After the first viewing I could not sleep. I watched the film again several times in order to fully understand what I wanted and needed to do. The changes that would occur in my life would prove to be profound for myself and those that were around me.

My daughter, Jasmine, was diagnosed with moderate-severe Autism at the age of three. She would perseverate for hours, have lengthy tantrums and had no interest in people or the elements around her. She was sent to schools with children who had similar disabilities. I was told that she would never read, have friendships and would have to be on medication for the rest of her life. After viewing The Secret I decided to change my approach and no longer deem her a child with Autism. I even removed the term “Special needs” from my vocabulary and any other negative connotations. What has occurred in the past four years is nothing short of remarkable. She is now in a mainstream school with limited support, she only takes homeopathic medicine, requests friends for playdates and is a voracious reader-she has just completed the Harry Potter series-all before her ninth birthday this August. Jasmine’s attention to detail is nothing short of remarkable and has a high artistic aptitude. I have paperwork documenting her success and even the school district is quite stunned. When asked how has this happen, I tell them to see “The Secret”-you will find your answer there.

A few days ago I was watching the movie again, but this time Jasmine sat next to me. I paused the movie from time to time to explain any concepts that may be difficult to grasp. She waved her hand at me when I tried to pause the movie and said “I get it, mom! You are a part of me-I am a part of you and we are all here together. It’s simple. Why do you think I have been smiling all this time? You wished my Autism away.”

The pause between us could not have been more profound and heartfelt. It was one of those moments that many people fear, but when experienced it creates a paradigm shift that cannot be measured. I truly believe that my daughter’s success here is only the beginning.

For myself, I got out of the crummy apartment, found my soulmate and realized that two elements from my vision board are about to come into fruition (that were in The Secret)-the hiker on the volcano and the couple toasting wine. In two weeks I am going wine tasting with great friends and in December I am completing the Honolulu marathon, which interestingly enough, goes over an extinct volcano twice. I now tell people that there are no accidents, only incidents. No matter how people look at me quizzically when I say it, it only furthers my conviction. It is my hope that other parents who have children with special needs will read this and know that The Secret can and WILL change lives.

Just believe…