I was in a meeting the other day for a young man who is significantly affected with autism. As facilitators, my co-worker and I were asking for input on this teenager's gifts,talents and strengths. There was a short silence as everyone searched for ideas...then someone piped up with, "He is immune to peer-pressure!"
We all chuckled...but we also realized that the statement was very true. Some might say he lives in his own world...but I'd rather see him as someone who his own person. A young man who feels what he feels without apology. Squeals in exuberance without looking out for who might be watching. He is who he is and there isn't much one can do to influence that. In a world where people care too much about what other people think of them..that's a strength.
We all chuckled...but we also realized that the statement was very true. Some might say he lives in his own world...but I'd rather see him as someone who his own person. A young man who feels what he feels without apology. Squeals in exuberance without looking out for who might be watching. He is who he is and there isn't much one can do to influence that. In a world where people care too much about what other people think of them..that's a strength.