Look the Part

by Jewel E. Ann

This is not a story about autism. This is a story about life. And in life there are children with autism and parents navigating unchartered territory to give these children a voice and a future. Every child is unique. Every journey requires a different map. This is one story. One journey. Harrison was inspired by the children I have personally had the pleasure to know and love.

I have a “mildly” autistic child. Doctors don’t seem to know their head from their ass when it comes to the epidemic that has devoured this generation of children. There’s no clear way to diagnose it. Or a shot to prevent it. Or a pill to mask the symptoms.

“When people touch, they no longer feel like strangers. It’s a feeling. When humans share feelings, they connect on an intimate level. It’s why I love music. It can go deeper than words. Rhythm is the heartbeat of your soul.”

No one on their deathbed says, “Remember how incredible it felt to make wise decisions?”

Ellen Rodgers has captured the attention of my son—a boy who rarely gives anyone his full attention.

“We did. I finished out the scenario in my head when I got home last night. I was amazing. You were just okay. I have to say … you’re the first guy I’ve been with who cried during your orgasm. What you lacked in manliness, you made up for with complete tenderness. I will always remember the soft caress of your tears falling onto my cheeks.”

No two autistic children are the same.

“Sometimes the world ends and forgets to take you with it. I get it.”

Live or die, Flint … but don’t sit in the fucking middle just … existing.”

“I may have planned on sex … but I sure as hell never planned on you.”

It’s extraordinarily hard to acknowledge our imperfections, especially when they cause something so devastating … but you are in fact just like everyone else. You’re human, Flint.”

“And you’re the first breath of oxygen that’s touched my lungs in ten years,” he whispers in my ear.

All men should be forced to come back in another life as a woman.

“Live life, my lovely girl. Take chances—a new path—and find happiness. No fear.”

“Feelings are our greatest compass. They will always lead you to the truth.”

you had to put on your Superman cape, and no girl in her right mind can resist falling for the superhero.

“Never regret loving someone. Do it for you, not for them.”

I want to be his greatest strength—and his greatest weakness. I want to be where he hides his lies and finds his truth.

“Again, you’re coddling him. I get it. He’s autistic. He reacts and adapts differently, but you have to let him deal with life. You can’t protect him from reality.

Those who love you the most, will cherish what you cherish. They’ll nurture what makes you—you.

Heaven and Earth, Flint … I’m going to love you so hard, time won’t matter. Distance won’t matter. All you’ll feel when you take each breath … is my love. Elle