Awesome Autism

I truly believe that people with autism are indeed 'special'. They are the most honest human beings who don't believe in lying and cutting corners. Isn't this what is required of a good Muslims? I told my friend (who recently found out about her son's diagnosis) that kids with autism are a blessing in disguise for the parents as they are so easy to mold to be good people, and unlike typical kids, they are not easily corrupted. My mother-in-law, who is helping me to fetch my son from school, recently told me that she witnessed my son (without anybody's asking) helping another boy to carry his bag down the school's porch steps. He then told the boy's mother who was waiting for him that 'kesian lah, he's so thin, he cannot carry the bag' (my son is quite meaty, btw). Both the mother and my MIL were touched by his gestures. It is not so easy to find such genuine kindness nowadays. So I couldn't have agreed more when I found the following article (by Lisa Ro Judy, copied from http://autism.about.com/od/inspirationideas/tp/besttraits.htm). Awesome autism!

Terrific Traits of People with Autism If you're sick of hearing about all the "deficits" challenging people on the autism spectrum, join the club. But for every down side to autism, there seems to be a positive -- an unusual trait that rarely appears among the "typical" community, but shines out among autistic folk. These plusses are well worth celebrating.

1. Autistic People Rarely Lie

We all claim to value the truth, but almost all of us tell little white lies. All, that is, except people on the autism spectrum. To them, truth is truth -- and a good word from a person on the spectrum is the real deal.

2. People on the Autism Spectrum Live in the Moment

How often do typical people fail to notice what's in front of their eyes because they're distracted by social cues or random chitchat? People on the autism spectrum truely attend to the sensory input that surrounds them. Many have achieved the ideal of mindfulness.

3. People with Autism Rarely Judge Others

Who's fatter? Richer? Smarter? For people on the autism spectrum, these distinctions hold much less importance than for typical folks. In fact, people on the spectrum often see through such surface appearances to discover the real person.

4. Autistic People are Passionate

Of course, not all autistic people are alike. But many are truly passionate about the things, ideas and people in their lives. How many "typical" people can say the same?

5. People with Autism Are Not Tied to Social Expectations

If you've ever bought a car, played a game or joined a club to fit in, you know how hard it is to be true to yourself. But for people with autism, social expectations can be honestly irrelevant. What matters is true liking, interest and passion -- not keeping up with the Joneses.

6. People with Autism Have Terrific Memories

How often do typical people forget directions, or fail to take note of colors, names, and other details? People on the autism spectrum are often much more tuned in to details. They may have a much better memory than their typical peers for all kind of critical details.

7. Autistic People Are Less Materialistic

Of course, this is not universally true -- but in general, people with autism are far less concerned with outward appearance than their typical peers. As a result, they worry less about brand names, hairstyles and other expensive but unimportant externals than most people do.

8. Autistic People Play Fewer Head Games

Who was that woman, and why were you looking at her? I know I TOLD you I didn't mind if you went out, but why did you believe me? Most autistic people don't play games like these -- and they assume that you won't either. It's a refreshing and wonderful change from the Peyton Place emotional roller coaster that mars too many typical relationships!