This morning I'd only been awake for a few minutes when I heard my oldest daughter scream. It was one of those screams that you don't ignore. One that signals some sort of danger or at least fear and pain. I ran downstairs. Between quick panicked breaths and sobs she was yelling at her brother to stop kicking her. It's important that I note that this particular brother deals with ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder) and, although at the core of him is a heart of gold and beautiful intentions, at times it is as if he changes into Mr. Hyde. The ensuing interactions are usually abrasive and hurtful both emotionally and sometimes physically. I have told him on several occasions that if he is doing something that is hurting someone, they have asked him to stop and he persists, they have my permission to protect and defend themselves. (We also talk about getting out of the situation, but sometimes my son bear holds them and won't let them out.) Appar...