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Adults On The Autism Spectrum

Autism (ASD) | Last Active: Apr 9 8:06am | Replies (1151)

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@mamacita

Hi everyone! Benjamin Franklin once said something to the effect that , if we don't have too high expectations in the first place, then we won't find ourselves disappointed all the time. Close enough. Interesting for him to say. He invented bifocals, experimented with electricity, and was an ambassador to France. He was a well loved statesman and wrote under an assumed name. Yet he still struggled. He felt that his character was lacking in some respects, and set about to change.
I'll stop right there and say that I believe he had good intentions. He achieved what many would call success in his life. I have often wondered if perhaps he was on the Spectrum. Autism is not new. It has been around for a very long time. Did he ever get up in the morning, have his cup of tea, look out his front door and think "What can I do today that will make a difference in the world?" Or did he simply do what many of us have learned to do? Make the best of a very challenging life...living every moment to the best of our ability. Enjoying our friends, our family, the beauty of nature...

But what if there are severe problems in our family, our friends, our community? Do we sit idly by and hope for the best? Or do we step up, step out, doing whatever we can to understand and care for situations that land on our doorstep? It has been said many times that if you see the problem, then you are meant to address that problem in some way.
I cannot be where you are and do what you can do. I cannot compare myself to you and feel jealous that you appear to be getting more attention than I am. It is not a race. I am not in competition with anyone. We are in this together. We can each do our part to advocate, to spread awareness, to model acceptance. We are better together! Can I pop in later to see how you are all doing? I miss all of you when I don't hear from you once in awhile! Hugs!
Mamacita

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Replies to "Hi everyone! Benjamin Franklin once said something to the effect that , if we don't have..."

Thank you for a ray of sunshine to help me start my day! Cyber Hugs @mamacita!

Oh, my friend,@johnbishop! You make me smile. I traveled to Georgia to collect my "IT" guy (Teen Grandson). Everywhere we stopped, I talked with people, and gave out a few of the Mayo Clinic Connect cards. My dentist wants to keep a supply on his counter. I find that people are very open to these cards. And why shouldn't they be? A helping hand, a listening ear, during difficult times in one's life? And it's free! I am so happy to be a part of Connect and blessed to know all of you. Virtual hugs!
Mamacita

@mamacita Ever since joining the Mayo Connect group, I have felt a peace of heart, knowing that although I am but one cog in the Wheel of Life, it is an important cog. Without the input from all, there is "just a bit less" in the effort going forward. Your words inspire me this morning.