How many of us are aware that in our vast social networks resides a soul who has been diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)? If we are aware of their presence, have we made the effort to accept the diagnosis and make a serious attempt to be a part of their life? It’s time we all took a deep hard look inward and reflected on our acceptance of those who are different from us (on every level). In this blog, we are discussing the importance of acceptance of those on the spectrum.
Acceptance in general requires effort on the part of an individual: physically, mentally, and emotionally. It involves working on oneself. It also requires understanding. Understanding that we are all unique human beings, with our character, quirks, and deficits. Acceptance is an acknowledgment of the fact that no two people are the same and the more people with differences we bring into our fold makes us richer.
The importance of acceptance of Autism by all of us is important because:
Acceptance means that your child can get the much-needed support and therapies to equip them for the life ahead. The earlier the intervention the more support your child is able to have earlier on in life. By accepting the diagnosis, families are enabling their children as well as easing their own lives as primary caregivers.
Acceptance of someone in your life with Autism means you become a part of their life as well as of their family. It could a neighbor, friend, colleague, or relative. By accepting you are opening your heart, and willingness to invest time, and energy to making a difference in someone’s life.
We recognize each person is as a unique individual, embrace them, and take pride in their diversity. Embracing diversity means realizing we are all human beings made in different molds by deserving equal love, opportunity, kindness, and respect.
Acceptance is a step in the road to advocacy. By accepting someone in your life with Autism, you are on your way to being an unofficial ambassador of awareness and acceptance among the larger community. You can be a voice, an advocate for Autism. Won’t that be just great?
Acceptance of Autism means that you go past the superficial. You make the effort to know a person, understand them, why they do things, and that each action such as meltdowns or flapping the hands is valid.
Acceptance of ASD and people living with them is beneficial for them and us, for communities and the world at large. It makes the world a much better place to live and call ‘home’.