The humorous side of the spectrum

[Rae Kridel]

Chriss sent a message asking if anyone is interested in sharing anecdotes on the humorous side of living with someone on the spectrum. I just had a meeting with a couple of clients yesterday and even though I've done their design work for over two years, they didn't realize that my son was diagnosed. I shared some of the exasperating things (communication, potty training, being hit and kicked when he's frustrated) but also shared some of the odd things he does. They said that it's great that I can laugh about it, but I said that why should I feel sorry for myself because my kid isn't "normal." He is what he is, he's gorgeous, he's brilliant, he's mischievous and funny, I couldn't possibly love him any more than I do, but he's just a little weird from time to time.

Are others ok with this? I know that the popular view is that autism is a disease to be cured, eradicated, banished to the musty pages of medical history books, but I'm beginning to think otherwise. Maybe everyone on here can start by letting us know why they are on this list.

[shelly Horne]

My son has been diagnosed since he was three. He is 8 now. You have to have a sense of humor. Laughter is a great medicine at times. My son is incredible. He is also one of the most stubborn individuals on the planet. We think when he grows up he has two great potentials. 1. Video game developer. 2. President of a nudist colony.

[Chriss Gregor-Maxwell]

Don't you just love naked time?
We have gradually easied my 7 year old into "underpants time"
Of course, this has become "Captain Underpants" so he flies around in his tidy whities with a purple cape, white sweat socks, and his black dress shoes. I had to laugh at one lady's reaction- she was over with her two daughters for a play date with my little girl. When my son came downstairs as Captain Underpants- with a flourish and a leap to the bottom of the stairs- the other mom yelled "cover your eyes, girls" to which I innocently responded- "no, he DOES have his underpants ON this time!" Yeah, she still comes back for playdates...I will try to get a picture of him as the captain and post it- behind my husband's back of course because he is HORRIFIED that I would share this or find it funny!

[Joe Obergfell]

I have grown up with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) and have came to realize that it is the main cause for my current employment and love.

On the job front, I have been able to obtain a BS in Computer Science and now a Web Developer (Since July 2007) for IBJ Media. My AS has enabled me to use my strengths and improve my weaknesses to ensure that I will have a solid job programming.

I am a little quirky and have my moments (like anyone on the spectrum), but who isn't a little odd? I have came to feel that Normal is vastly overrated and a waste of time to pine over.

About a year ago, I have met a young lady (also AS) through another group and we have been going out since. In a way, I have never been able to get along with many women ( in the relationship sense) until I met her. Probably because she understands my quirky way and vice verse.

All I can say is that, Never let the Families of Normies (normal people) tell you how to feel or what to think. They will never fully understand the compassion you have for your child(ren). These Normies will try to tell you how to raise your child and you are a bad parent because the child is unruly. Yes, there is a limit, but these Normies are going through life - eyes closed/ears shut, or worse, dead to new ideas.

[Rae Kridel]

Joe, thanks for sharing your story. I have full confidence that my son will be a happy, healthy, quirky and brilliant man and what mother could ask for more? If you haven't seen it already, I recommend renting "Mozart and the Whale."

[Joe Obergfell]

I will definitely check this movie out.

[Chriss Gregor-Maxwell]

Did I mention that sometimes my 7 1/2 year old boy looks at me intently, goes into my bathroom, and comes out with my hot rollers. He then pointedly looks at my head and hands them to me...who needs words to say "Mom, you look like crap today- do something with that hair!"

[Chriss Gregor-Maxwell]

I have attached a file that I have found necessary...it is entitled "How to poop without making a mess." In exasperation I have posted it in all 3 of our bathrooms, for the benefit of my 7 1/2 year old with Autism and a baddddd habit. I had forgotten it was there until one of my friends emerged from our lavatory and asked "Was that aimed at me?" Now I really have to wonder...Anyway, use it if you share our yucky dilema. It hasn't worked 100 percent, but there is a noticibly decreased 'smear factor.'