Even though I believe gratitude should be a conscious, calculated, and vocal daily exercise, this time of year serves as an outward reminder. Whereas most of society’s indulgences often distract us from a grateful disposition, the opposite often occurs during this time of year–radio hosts, news anchors, television shows, holiday movies, advertisements, store decorations, and everywhere else we turn seems to be a reminder of this feeling of gratitude we should all be exuding. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’m offering my readers a list of things that are at the forefront of my conscious this year.
This year, I’m thankful for:
- An expanding presence of autism acceptance, rather than mere awareness.
- The autistic community willing and to express insights into the autistic condition and teach neurotypicals the errors and successes of their advocacy approaches (even though it isn’t their job to do so).
- All of the autistic individuals willing to share their life stories and advice of the Learn From Autistics blog.
- Mainstream media’s effort to include autism representations. Everyone may not agree on what these portrayals should look like, but I’m hopeful that these efforts will progressively move towards more positive and accurate portrayals that will ultimately improve autism acceptance.
- My family and friends who love and support our unique needs as an autism family.
- My autistic son’s physical therapist and occupational therapist for loving him, challenging him within his limits, and helping him enjoy their time together.
- My autistic son for challenging me to think in new ways, understanding different ways of living and perceiving the world.
- The necessary basics: a roof over my head, food to eat, clothes to wear, and a loving family.
Thanks for reading and Happy Thanksgiving!