Estée KlarTo Get To The Other Side

I love this video. It’s just that simple. “You get rid of the autism gene and you get rid of Mozart, Einstein, Silicon Valley…” I love how Temple advocates and it’s this kind of advocacy that assists us in putting ourselves, as neurotypical parents and teachers and therapists, with outrageous expectations, under a much needed spotlight. Beyond listening to her story about “gifts” is an opportunity to consider the disconnect we create when we try to “fix the problem.”

Lorraine came to me by way of my own website, which attests to the power of the Internet in making connections these days. Reviewing her own work with recycling computers, and how she came to regard herself by way of other people’s view of her, I of course cannot help but think about autistic people and what a “contribution to society” can look like:

For people who view obsessions as negative, this video is another story of how our “obsessions” are pathways to creativity and invention. Visit the Next Step Recycling website.