Between Hope and a Hard Place to “I wish I didn’t have Aspergers” #AutismPositivity2012

This post was originally published at http://betweenhopeandahardplace.wordpress.com/2012/04/30/between-hope-and-a-hard-place-to-i-wish-i-didnt-have-aspergers-autismpositivity-2012/ and is reprinted here with permission from the author.

——————————–

Earlier this month, someone Googled “I wish I didn’t have Aspergers”.I am taking part in the AutismPositivity 2012 flash blog to give that person, and future others, some positive words….

 

Dear “I wish”,

As a neurotypical adult, I cannot tell you from personal experience if it gets better or gets easier. I cannot promise that the world will welcome you with open arms. I cannot make your Aspergers go away.

What I can do is tell you that you’re not alone. You are not. My son has Autism. There are other boys in his class with it, too. They are all different, all special. I know some girls with it, too…and they are special, too. I have found some online acquaintances on the spectrum, too. They are inspiring. If you search out others, you will be amazed. Try finding a social group..or look online. Some of the biggest supporters may be on the other side of a computer screen hundreds of miles away…but they are out there!

I can also tell you that there are many, many neurotypical people out there who are willing to listen, to help, to advocate, to support you. If you are struggling because of your differences, talk to a parent, a trusted relative, a teacher, a social worker, a trusted peer. We have moved mountains (of paperwork, at the very least) to get you services and into programs. We are here and ready.

I can tell you that therapy, social groups, and practice can help make difficult situations easier. You will always have Aspergers, but you can develop skills to help cope with its most trying characteristics.

I can tell you that my son is one of my heroes. He struggles to communicate effectively, but he keeps trying. He cannot read social cues well, but he is learning. He has several hours of structured therapy and school each day, but he is genuinely happy.

His zest for life, his perseverence, and his enjoyment of the “little” things never cease to amaze me. I will always remind him of these traits…and how beautiful they are…and how beautiful that makes him.

Finally, I can tell you that Asperger’s or not, you are loved…for who you are, warts and all…and no one can take that away from you. No one.

For more AutismPositivity, please look here https://autismpositivity.wordpress.com/