My son has autism. But if you told someone I said that, I would say you are a bold faced liar. I am not afraid of the word "autism." In fact, I don't believe in it. Let me back up! I don't believe in labels. No, no, I don't believe labels are beneficial for my son ("No Crutch" Zone). |
They: a. try speaking to him in another language b. make a screwed up face c. call him a name. However, if I lean over and whisper, "he has autism." Then they relax and give me the pity look as they become ultra polite. In fact, when we are going to big events, in which there will be |
However, I have never told my son or his siblings that he has autism. My son is a human being, who has strengths and weaknesses like everyone else. He is sensitive to gluten, fluoride, and electromagnetic frequencies, but these things are bad for everybody! He is like that canary miners send into the caves to see if it's safe. He has taught us a more healthy and spiritual way of life. |
Don't get me wrong, it's not all peaches and cream; he repeats things (in creepy voices), ducks and weaves when he hears a hand dryer in a public bathroom, is regimented with some things, and struggles with making/ keeping friends. He is a different kind of normal. We were having dinner and I asked my son a question (sometimes he answers, sometimes he doesn't). After a period of silence, my other son said, "he answered you with his mind." Of course he did! |
Not only do I have my hopes up, but I truly believe (insh'Allah) that my son will accomplish everything he sets his mind to accomplish. He will reach his highest potential. After all isn't that our purpose? So will we ever sit down and say, "Son, you have autism?" We don't plan on it. My son knows who he is and why he is here. Using a label doesn't validate that. |