barbedlotus, that was an absolutely lovely story about your son -- what a nice boy he is, and so kind to you.
minniemum -- your son is EXACTLY like my 13 year old! I was so happy to read your story.
My son was recently SO WONDERFUL when I had a bad experience with my poor aging mother who has Alzheimer's. She had been in bed for a nap, and had vomited while reclined, and doesn't have the strength to sit up on her own. My son was passing by her room and notified my Dad and I that she needed help. Then, while we were dealing with her, my son ran and got a towel (without being asked) to help clean her up, he sat with her, stroked her hand, hugged her, made her a get-well card, etc. I have NEVER seen a child act so compassionately. I have two older children, 18 and 23, and neither of them would have acted so quickly or compassionately as my aspie 13 year old.
He is also perennially cheerful, and constantly helpful and kind. I don't know how he does it.