I want to tell you that autism is beautiful! Yes, you read that right! Okay, it’s true—it comes with its own set of challenges, and it requires neurotypical people like me to make a little effort to see life in color—but I find it beautiful. I often find that blogs focus more on the difficulties than on celebrating the victories—and that’s fine, because it serves as a kind of outlet—but it also leads people to think that autism is just about constant meltdowns and struggles. Or else there are those gifted kids on TV who make it seem like my child has some hidden super talent.
My son doesn't need a special talent to be extraordinary. In fact, his special talent is celebrating life in its simplest form. Give him a flashlight, show him a blue star or a hole somewhere, or tell him about the Paw Patrol And that’s enough to blow his mind. He sees beautiful colors and hears beautiful sounds everywhere. He reminds me that life is noisy, and that silence feels good. Every day, he helps me find wonder in the little things. A flower? WoooooW!! An airplane? Watatow! The sun? Magnificent!
It also reminds me that sometimes we need to stop cramming our day full of so many things that we end up stressing ourselves out. A relaxing day at home doing our own thing does us a world of good!
Her infectious laughter!!! It always brightens my day!
He was also the one who taught me to be myself, even if it meant facing mocking glances. That it’s okay to dance in a waiting room or sing at the top of your lungs at the store. He taught me to stay calm when a crisis strikes and to give him all the love he needs.
It’s also thanks to him that I’ve been able to teach my other children about differences. My oldest has no trouble approaching someone who is different; she asks me questions. She does this to better understand others and their needs, because she sees us constantly trying to understand her brother’s needs and listening to him.
Yes, it's true—sometimes his limitations and challenges present us with quite a challenge, but even here, it teaches me that a challenge can very well be overcome. It's true—it takes patience and energy, which I draw from the love I have for him and my ardent desire to see him flourish on his own terms.
Maybe you're a different kind of mom, and right now you rushez solid, and that none of it looks beautiful in your home. My advice: stop. Stop the rat race, sit down, and take a moment to admire it. What beauty do you see?
Come on, keep looking—because I'm telling you: autism is beautiful!
P.S. It’s okay to think it’s tough and beautiful at the same time 😉