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Last week I encouraged you to get to know someone with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Part of “social insight” is viewing life from the perspectives of people with ASD. The following poem was written by our friend Sondra Williams, from Columbus, Ohio. (Please keep reading for an opportunity to support Sondra’s dream!)
They Say © 2005 Sondra Williams I heard them talking about me, saying I am not like others I can dance and sing and play, I feel, and cry tears too. I am more like you, than you think I heard them say that my silence reflects no emotion, no connections. I cry many unseen tears, I laugh at life's blunders, although not in ways foreseen. I connect like you, more than you think. They say I am intellectually impaired and will never learn to reach my potential I know about words and explore the world in ways others rarely know. I am smarter, than you think. The doctor says I will not be able to show affection or relate to my own family I gave them a smile from across the room, they didn't even notice. I do know and feel love, more than you may think. Some say my anger and the rages are animalistic. I tried to communicate my fear the only way I know how, but no one was listening. I get angry like you, for reasons like you, more than you think The doctors say there is no hope I am void of understanding I have dreams and think on them often, but due to my silence I can't share them. Yes, I have dreams and goals, just like others, more than you think Strangers say I am out of control and not human. I have a body, mind and soul, just somewhat challenged. I am human more than you think. I heard them talking, saying oh, she has autism, a disability of no hope If they only knew what is trapped inside me, I think. They would say she's more like me, than what I used to think. _____________________________________________________ What a beautiful example of “social incites”—beautiful perspectives that hopefully incite us to respond to others with more empathy, respect, and hope!
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Social IncitesSocial Incites™ are insights which incite (encourage) personal and interpersonal growth. Social Incites™ are written by Laurel Hoekman, Certified Family Life Educator, Certified Employment Training Specialist, Social Coach, Consultant, and Registered Social Service Technician (Michigan). For 15 years, Laurel was the Executive Director of The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding, and has also been a CASA volunteer (Court Appointed Special Advocate for children who are abused and neglected). She is passionate about helping individuals and families (including those affected by autism spectrum disorders) identify and achieve their goals, particularly in building and maintaining effective social connections. Archives
April 2023
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