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Love Beyond Limits: Every Day is Autism Day
By Kristi | Published | No Comments
As April comes to a close, I’m left to ponder if a single month impacts the understanding of autism. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for increasing the way others perceive, interact, and support those on the spectrum. My greater hope is that a month will have an enduring influence as the years go by. The banners have shifted over the years, from awareness to acceptance, and will continue to change with the times. It is my profound hope that whatever the tagline, understanding, compassion, and acceptance will lead the way to erode indifference, prejudice, and ignorance. With that in mind, I have re-written a post I display every year at the end of April.
I am aware that every child on this broad spectrum is a unique, talented, loving, and gifted individual. Each has their own abilities, strengths, struggles, and experiences. They have lessons to teach, stories to tell, and love to share along the way, so long as we are receptive to them.
I accept the challenges of educating others, even when met with opposition― or at times hostility. The opportunity to speak for those who cannot, like my son, but who are fully aware of how they are perceived.
I am aware of the mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, extended family, teachers, peers, therapists, doctors, nurses, school support staff, vocational support, specialists, state program coordinators, and friends, all of whom are an integral part of that awareness and support. So many caring people are dedicated to our children, helping them fulfill their potential and be accepted in a world for their abilities, now and in the future.
I accept that this journey is different for each of us and our loved ones as we continue down the path with determination, love, hope, and most of all, faith. Even during those trying times when we are running on empty.
I am aware that much has been done to help those with autism. However, there is still much more to do, especially as the children of autism become adults.
I find judgment to be unacceptable and even worse, cruel when used to make others feel unwelcome and unworthy.
I am aware now more than ever what unconditional love truly means from every aspect and some I had never even considered. If you are blessed to know someone with autism you have no doubt experienced this as well.
I accept that advocacy is a long road but one so worth traveling. This is where awareness and acceptance join forces, leading to the outcomes and support we seek for those on the spectrum. Reminding ourselves this influential responsibility must serve the needs of the entire autism community and not single agendas.
I am aware that it’s not just about a month. I accept a lifetime of love and lessons learned. I hope that every year, April isn’t just a remembrance, but a way of life centered on acceptance, compassion, and understanding every month.
But today, I just wanted to send a little reminder. After all, April is Autism’s Month.
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