The Eberlin Family's life is forever altered by the extraordinary requirements of the third-born son Randall, who is autistic and whose life is based upon routine. The family learns to exist around him, barely noticing his disruptions, until an unfortunate event causes harm they can no longer ignore.
Through the 1970s, the family members endure life-changing events like the Vietnam War, failed marriages and strive to forge new bonds. A death in the family joins them together at the funeral. Over a 40-year period, the family members now reunite for a wedding. Nina comes to understand that life is a risky proposition. Every person must find their own path and live with the consequences of their actions.