I happened to notice that July 13 is “Embrace your Geekness Day”. A quick check of Wikipedia, which tells us:
The word geek is a slang term originally used to describe eccentric or non-mainstream people; in current use, the word typically connotes an expert or enthusiast obsessed with a hobby or intellectual pursuit. In the past, it had a generally pejorative meaning of a “peculiar person, especially one who is perceived to be overly intellectual, unfashionable, boring or socially awkward.” In the 21st century, it was reclaimed and used by many people, especially members of fandoms, as a positive term.
Doesn’t that remind you of some of the descriptors for ASD – “non-mainstream” with an overwhelming interest in a narrow topic? What I particularly like is the idea that these departures from “normal” are being viewed as positives, not negatives. Of all the gifts we can give our loved ones, I think one of the most important is the certainty that their differences are admirable, NOT shameful. Celebrating those differences is essential! Autism may make life harder at times, but there are also those moments to laugh and celebrate when you savor the gifts it brings.
The hot weather reminds me of the spring of Kieran’s kindergarten year. He didn’t talk much. One sunny weekend, we participated in a family campout at Deer Creek State Park. I’m not sure he spoke a word until we went for what was to be his first boat ride. He stepped into the boat with a huge smile, said “B-O-A-T, boat” and sat down to enjoy the ride. That weekend was one of pure enjoyment – no tantrums, no oppositional moments, just the happy experience of the outdoors. Definitely a moment to celebrate!
Have a wonderful Independence Day AND a happy “Embrace your Geekness Day.”
The Autism Society offers tips on helping someone with Autism attend a 4th of July celebration.
Kathi J. Machle, President, Autism Society of Ohio