Have you ever felt like the world around you is chaotic? Like others just aren’t following the rules? Do you ever feel powerless?
Now, more than ever, we need people in our lives who think differently, help us see different perspectives, and challenge our status quo so that we can come back to what is most important and what we can control – like supporting each other, lifting each other up, and COMMUNITY.
April is Autism Acceptance Month.
The Autistic individuals in my life are no strangers to feeling out of place, like society just isn’t built for them, and like the people around them aren’t following the rules that make sense to them, yet every day they embrace what is right in front of them. They approach the world around them with curiosity, and the act authentic to themselves and their values.
They have told me through their words and also their actions that it is frustrating to live in a world that is not built for them, where they are often misunderstood, and few people stop to understand. Yet, they continue to focus on what they can control, for that is really the only thing that truly matters for any of us.
They have been some of my greatest mentors and teachers. In honor of this month and the incredible Autistic individuals in our community, I encourage everyone to reflect on one of the greatest lessons that I have learned –
True acceptance of a person comes when you stop trying to change them and instead, get to know them in a way that changes you for the better.
Let us practice -
Opening our eyes to see the beauty in that, which is different from us.
Opening our minds to seek people who will challenge our perspectives and perceptions.
Opening our tables to specifically include Autistic individuals.
Opening our ears to listen to learn.
Opening our hearts to acceptance so that WE can grow and contribute to stronger families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities.
Together, we are extraordinary and together, we can create a community where everyone belongs.
- Waverly Ann Harris, CEO & President
