The camps are dividing, people, and it's getting nasty. Wearing blue is disrespectful to autistic people, or should that be, people with autism? I am so confused that I don't even know what the correct terminology is anymore! Wearing red/orange/yellow etc means that you think autism rocks and is the best thing since sliced bread. Really?
Oh my word, be very careful about using any of the autism buzz words. I dare not mention them here just in case I get trolled. There is always going to be someone who will be quick to rant, rave and throw their arms up in disgust.
The judgement of others throughout the Autism community is mind blowing. It is downright awful. Parents pitted against other parents. Non parents lambasting parents. People vilifying organisations and methodology....... and the list goes on.
As the parent of an autistic teen I like to keep up to date on what is happening out there. It is interesting and fascinating to read different views, methods and autism stories. I might think, "eek, that is not for me or my boy", however, I am certainly not going to criticize another person for what they think is right. (Okay, I may think "oh you silly mare", but those words won't pass my lips!).
Life is all about choices and having the freedom to choose. I might like dogs but dislike cats (it's okay, I don't dislike cats). I just happen to love RDI and what it has done for my family, however, I am not going to rant, rave and throw my arms in the air because a friend happens to think ABA is the bomb.
Basically, social media brings out the ugly. It is all too easy to hide behind a screen and air your views whilst metaphorically stomping on other people. If only all interactions were face to face, then it would be a totally different story.
As for me and my little family. Well, I am going to carry on reading, learning and engaging with the nice people. You never know, somewhere in that pool there might be someone or something that clicks with me that could be beneficial for my boy. As for those who are quick to judge and are not shy about expressing their views to the determent of others. It's not my
Anyway, for World Autism Awareness/Acceptance Day I am going to be far too busy flying off to Cape Town with my Nick to even think about the significance of the day. Adventures are far more exciting.
Mind you, I am probably going to wear blue. Lighten up, people. There is no hidden agenda, blue looks great on me. End of story. x
I also look good in blue, so it is very likely that I will also be wearing it tomorrow. I'm sorry you are seeing such nastiness around Autism Awareness Month, I now unfollow and block anyone like that, even though I know it means that I am also missing out on different information and perspectives. It's just too upsetting.
ReplyDeleteLuckily among my friends I am only seeing the joy of being given the chance to celebrate their children xx
You look fab in blue! I think at the end of the day we do have information overload, therefore it is good to block out a lot of it. Have a lovely (and calm) weekend. xx
DeleteI actually don't own anything blue, doesn't suit me. I like the month, but then I like that we have a Downs syndrome awareness, where everyone wears odd socks. I'm not big on autism groups, too judgemental. I love my sons, my sons have autism. Does it rock, does it suck. Neither, they're just my sons! x
ReplyDeleteI also like April.... probably because it is my Birthday month and I get a present!! :-)
DeleteI can't do all that judgmental stuff either. Thanks for stopping by. x
Good for you. I really do wish more people in Autism land held your views. Each to their own and we should stand together when needed. All in an ideal world, eh?
ReplyDeleteI think you're celebrating the day perfectly with your boy. As for me, it's the first year I just haven't got involved. Too busy staying on his case to get studying done! xx
Thanks, Jazzy. I think the older we get the more our priorities change. I don't envy you all that studying stuff. Been there, done that. Good luck! xx
DeleteI'm with you Di. Love your take on this and the snippets of humor you inject. I pretty much opt out of all this Autism Awareness Light it up Blue stuff... I used to engage mainly because of my books and now I'm happy to do my own thing, as there is plenty to do here. The autism world can be ugly and seems like we lose sight of what's important.. helping our guys learn and grow and be the best they can be, living well to the best of our ability, and encouraging more acceptance. Thanks for writing this. I will share :-) And I keep loving your photos. I'm wearing black today- mainly because that's what was clean and handy when I went to yoga. Happy travels. And way to go on traveling with Nick. You are my inspiration in that department and I marvel at what you create. Gayle
ReplyDeleteThank you for your very thoughtful reply, Gayle. We have enough going on in our lives without getting involved in drama on the net! :-)
DeleteThanks also for following my Project 365. Sadly my Nikon has gone in for repairs and I am missing it madly! iPhone snaps for now!
hear hear!! I refrain from any mention of colour when sharing/talking about my autism post, to many politics for my liking. Im all for awareness, light it up in what ever colour you like to :) Have a fab holiday
ReplyDeleteThanks, Amanda. Absolutely... so many wonderful colours out there! :)
DeleteYes, yes! I wholeheartedly agree! Wear whatever color you want, and stay clear of the fray - that's what I do too!
ReplyDeleteAt the end of the day it is the wisest decision! :)
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