The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “open” as : having no enclosing
or confining barrier : accessible on all or nearly all sides : being in
a position or adjustment to permit passage : not shut or locked : not
restricted to a particular group or category of participants.
Autism Communities are growing fast.
It seems as though everyone has an opinion on ASD’s, vaccinations, to
cure or not to cure, acceptance, and yes, even the outrageous claims
from those who deny the existence of autism altogether! How does one
navigate through this vast arena which appears to have taken on a life
of it’s own?
I thought it was challenging almost 11 years ago when Aspergers formally
introduced itself to my family because I was hard pressed to find
informative literature without extensive research; however, I can’t
imagine what it must be like today with the information overload which
seems to branch off in a million and one directions. Kudos to all you
parents, friends, teachers, families, and individuals on the Spectrum
who are just now beginning to tread the waters of autism.
If I had to make a blanket statement to sum up the vast array of
movements within the autism community, I would feel comfortable with
stating that IMO, I believe these movements are stemming from a good
place within most of the persons involved. Mothers, fathers, family, and
friends are motivated by their love and loyalty to the individual with
autism. I believe it’s extremely important to remember this when we are
attempting to grasp the varying degrees of opinions as it relates to
ASD’s.
Individuals on the Spectrum are learning to advocate for themselves, and
in turn, Aspies & Auties are beginning to take the lead by helping
others to understand what it means to be Neurodiverse.
How do those of us on the Spectrum
process information, view social interactions, and perceive the stimuli
around us? Have you ever taken the time to ask someone with autism how
they feel about their job, their family, their friends, their school,
their neighbors, and why they feel the way they do about all of these
things? Now, ask yourself, have you ever done so with an open mind? Have
you listened to what they have to say without passing judgment by
thinking in the back of your mind how you think they should feel?
In defense of the parents who question the safety of vaccines and the
ongoing conundrum as it relates to autism, I applaud your efforts. Yes,
I can respect these parent’s heartfelt attempts as they search for
answers to questions which they have every right to explore. At the same
time, it does not mean that I will draw the same conclusions, but at
least we have an open dialogue which can only be beneficial if we keep
the lines of communication moving forward. Two people do not need to
agree on every single matter for there to be a healthy exchange of
ideas.
Will we not all be better off in the long
run if we learn to respect the opinions of others without passing
judgments? Can each of us remember that we are ALL striving to obtain
the same goals of Aspies & Auties leading healthy, productive, and
meaningful lives?
I attended a meeting a few weeks ago with State Senator Tony Fulton and
Congressman Fortenberry of Nebraska. Senator Fulton ended the meeting by
stressing that a UNITED movement is necessary as it relates to ASD
related matters. He pointed out that due to the fragmented causes within
the autism community, the necessary steps toward gaining a universal
platform are being hindered. He called upon us to remember that we are
ALL on the same team.
We ALL want what is best for our children , family, and friends on the
Spectrum; and if we are Aspies & Auties, isn’t it our desire to be
heard, recognized, and understood? So I ask each of you to take a deep
breath and count to 100 before you start drawing lines in the sand and
discounting the differing voices around you. Perhaps it will take
exploring ALL avenues before the ultimate understanding of the Spectrum
can be achieved.
Albert Einstein, one of the most neurodiverse mind’s in history said, “A
man should look for what is, and not for what he thinks should be” …….
“A perfection of means, and confusion of aims seems to be our main
problem.”
…….and “All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree.”
Disclaimer: Publication
of stories should not be considered a
recommendation by Hope Magazine Online as results are not typical and
can vary. The information presented on this site is not intended as
medical advice. Its intention is solely informational. There are amazing
stories out there but please consult a medical or healthcare
professional before starting any new treatment or therapy. DO YOUR OWN
RESEARCH.
