Just a piece I wrote for Autism Awareness Week.....
Imagine being hijacked.
Bundled onto an aeroplane and parachuted in to a foreign land.
Nobody here speaks your language.
Everybody talks in words and phrases you simply can't comprehend.Their actions make no sense to you. Their idea of logic bears no resemblance to your own.
Everything is alien to you and they are as bewildered with you as you are with them.
You're lost.
Now imagine there's no escape.
You're stuck in their world forever. You have no choice but to adapt.
So begins the extremely difficult process of having to acclimatise to the environment you find yourself in.
The journey is an arduous one.
Sometimes the process can be unbearable, painful almost. The stress and anxiety of attempting to 'fit in' can cause much distress.
Of course it's easy to retreat within yourself. There are times when you will need the comforting sanctuary of your own bubble. It's tranquility vital for survival. However insecurities and fears can be conquered.
With understanding, compassion and guidance it's possible to leave the serenity of your bubble and feel part of their world.
In time you can discover that isn't as terrifying as once imagined.
You begin to realise there are some very special people in their world.
People with patience and care, who can help puncture holes in your bubble but still keep you safe.
When a trust is formed, a bond is made and the realisation dawns.
Yes there is my world.
Yes there is their world.
But there is an alternative to both.
Welcome to 'Our World'
Autism Awareness Week
27th March - 2nd April
