If someone you love is on the autism spectrum, I highly recommend that you watch the movie Temple Grandin. Temple Grandin is an autistic woman who overcame gigantic difficulties to use her exceptional mind to contribute to the scientific community.
The first time I watched the movie, I cried the whole way through (and laughed, too!). Not because it was a sordid story, but because I could see my son in so many ways–the expressions, the fear, the sensory issues, the social struggles, the fine mind and sensitive feelings underlying. I could relate to both the kindness and unkindness of others who didn’t understand Grandin. My son is not as autistic as Grandin and functions much more normally, but the story is still relatable. He definitely feels the inner pain of being “different.”
I asked my son if the movie helped him understand himself. “Yeah,” he said quietly.
Oh, my child. I want you to know that you are valuable. We love you so, so much. You are smart and funny and sweet and loveable. God has a unique plan for your life. Don’t let others tear you down.
You can also listen to a TED talk by Grandin herself about the fact that “the world needs all kinds of minds.” I don’t agree with everything Grandin believes, but I think these resources are valuable because they help us understand that God made us all different for a good reason. The world does need all kinds of minds.
If you have a child with similar needs, Temple Grandin may encourage you as you celebrate and cherish your child.
arabah rejoice 
I love him so much too!! Kisses. (Even though he wipes them off!)😀
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He loves you, too! And he likes hugs, if you hug him hard! 🙂 Just yesterday he came up to me and surprised me with a rib-cracking hug. Ahhhh, I love it!
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I haven’t seen the movie but I have read her book Emergence. It’s a classic book of autism, written from personal experience. It was a real eye-opener to me. One thing I remember is her fascination with doors and the symbolism for her. Another was the security of touch with just the right amount of pressure, which later inspired her invention of a cattle chute to help calm cattle. She could also be easily overwhelmed with too much touching contact with others. LRM
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I would like to read the book. The movie talks about some of the things you described–Grandin’s way of seeing the world is fascinating! A story like hers reminds me to look past people’s struggles to see the beautifully unique way God has created them. Nobody is an anomaly. Everyone has much to offer the world!
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Oh I am so glad to have found your blog Rosina. I feel like I just want to cuddle up in a chair and read your blog (:
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I’m happy to be in touch again after so many years! 🙂
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We watched this movie the other night, thanks to your recommendation. We were not disappointed! It is such a good, good movie.
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That’s great! So glad you found it worth your time!
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