(My 8-year-old nephew, Kunga, meditating)
I recently watched the PBS documentary, "Neurotypical," which is the term those of us in the autism community call those without autism. I could sit here all day and argue that there is no such thing as "typical," that I've yet to meet anyone "typical," and we're all some fascinating combination of different abilities, gifts, talents, and challenges, but because this is only a blog post and not a full-length book (yet), I won't. I will stick to the terms, "neurotypical" and "autistic."
Do yourself a favor and watch this 53-minute documentary. You will never ever think of the game of tag, the same way again. There is a 41-year-old man named Wolf featured, he eloquently describes the experience of having autism, and the systems he's put into place to make sense of the world.
We all need systems in place to make sense of the world. The world is not an easy place to make sense of. Whatever systems we can put into place to quiet the mind, still the thoughts, calm our center and settle us down long enough to regroup before going back "out there," that's a universal need not limited to those with autism, one might even say that's a "typical" need.
Om.
4 comments:
I am in desperate need of some "om" right now. I love the joyful image of your nephew meditating and I am looking forward to watching the documentary when my nervous system has settled down enough to not be saddened and agitated by all that is not peaceful.
I haven't seen the documentary but have read about it and look forward to checking it out. In the meantime, your words are so wise -- and that photo is just gorgeous.
I have not seen the documentary, but the game "tag" has been the bane of my existence as it applies to one of my kids. Always "it" = no fun.
Lately I am realizing how acutely I need to update my systems. When they are not working it is literally painful. Systems are definitely essential for all of us!
Post a Comment