“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us then who are mature be of the same mind; and if you think differently about anything, this too God will reveal to you. Only let us hold fast to what we have attained.” (Philippians 3:14-16)

In many challenging circumstances, this verse from Philippians provides strength and encouragement. The challenge of Dyslexia is no different.

There have been many times on this journey where my daughter or I have felt discouraged.

She has felt discouraged for obvious reasons. Struggling with something (like reading) that everyone around you seems to be doing just fine can make you feel defeated. Why can’t I do this, too?

Even when she has success, like all the progress she is making through her tutoring sessions, she still doubts her efforts and her abilities.

“Researchers have learned that when typical learners succeed, they credit their own efforts for their success. When they fail, they tell themselves to try harder. However, when learners with dyslexia succeed, they are likely to attribute their success to luck. When they fail, they simply see themselves as stupid.” (International Dyslexia Association)

I have felt discouraged, too, because in the beginning, I did not know how to help my daughter. I didn’t understand what she was going through, and often her emotions overwhelmed me.

Because I had to figure out a plan for her, I “pressed on,” until the pieces started coming together. Talking to experts, asking questions, and reading research was the beginning. We found a tutor. We learned how to ask for accommodations in school.

In this case, the goal is to help my daughter reach the prize—reading and spelling but also believing in her own God-given gifts and talents. In turn, I encourage her to “press on.” I remind her of how far she has come, how well she is doing.

She thinks differently; her brain works differently. And according to Philippians, “God will reveal”; we only have to “hold fast” to what we’ve already received (her diagnosis, tutoring, information, education).

There’s no stopping now, she is on her way! That prize is right within her grasp!

For a complete list of topics and links, visit the landing page for 31 Days: One Mom’s Journey With Dyslexia or click the square image below.