Looking at people with Autism differently?

... In my opinion, sure go ahead! 

This movie clip, a BBC production, is another excellent piece on autism presented from a whole different perspective. Rosie, the host, is a gem with aspergers who understands her world really well. She tries to introduce it to us in a way that we can understand. Watching this movie clip, I can't help but simply adore the children who talk about their condition with confidence yet at the same time share their difficulties so that you can understand more about their world.

There are a few books and resources out there written by people with Autism, telling stories on how they perceive the world. To name a few there is Temple Grandin’s “Thinking in Pictures” which has been made into a great movie. Sofie Koborg Brosen’s “Do you understand me?” is a simple story book written by Sofie when she was only 11 years old. If you know more, do share it with us in the comment section of this post!

Recently a growing number of people with Aspergers Syndrome are starting to speak up using You Tube as their medium. They use it to tell us how it feels to be different. A teenager even refered to it as a “coming out” by telling the world that he has Autism.

Living with Autism is not easy and for those involved it means having to take a different in life. People along the Autism spectrum and their family members need to make extra effort in overcoming challenges and difficulties caused by these differences,  as compared to those without Autism. Many of them are now trying to speak up in hopes that others will understand what they are going through. We would like you to know that they have their differences and so may need support in certain areas. Once these areas are supported, they can perform to their fullest potential and possibly even exceed your expectations!

Just like what Rosie said, her Autism has made her who she is and the best part is, she is proud of it! One this note, I have to agree with Lady Gaga when she sings: I was born this way, and I’m proud of it!

We at EAP Malaysia hope to spread greater knowledge and understanding on what Autism is. If you are someone who has Autism, be cool about it because you are special, and you have a special task to share your experties with those who don't know what Autism is!

Getting to know more about Autism will expand one’s understanding of how unique our society can be and how we can make the best of every opportunity to work among our differences.

Written by, 
Lee Yu Ying
Consultant, EAP Malaysia