Big Blue

Today is April 2nd, 2010. Autism Awareness day, marked by wearing a blue shirt to promote understanding, respect and acceptance of those on the spectrum.

I donned my blue shirt this morning, and went update my facebook page. As I scrolled through the updates of the early morning, so many friends and loved ones had updated about wearing their blue shirt, some of them specifically naming my daughter and those on the spectrum that they love. I found myself overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude for the support and love to the point of tears. 

I imagined a sea of loving faces, with open arms welcoming Ruby and other kids on the spectrum into a world where they were understood and respected for their amazing talents. I imagined a world where there is less judgement when my child melts down at the coffee shop, or the library. I imagined a school system where Ruby and other kids with special needs are given the tools and guidance they need to achieve their highest potential. I imagined a workforce that provides support for autistics, and those with sensory integration problems, and a healthcare system that doesn't discriminate against the diagnosis of autism. I imagined a world where awareness isn't just a blue shirt one day of the year, but greater understanding every day, all year long. 

When I think about all those blue shirts today, I realize that what I imagine... can be and will be reality. 

Comments

[Ruby'sNana]

Today we all started making people aware of autism. Tomorrow comes acceptance and understanding. All those blue shirts worn today were like blue skies. You know the sunshine is not far behind. I LOVE YOU!

[GingerB]

I felt this way on CP awareness day a few weeks ago, and realized I don't even know if my people have a ribbon. I didn't wear blue today because I didn't know but I bought a tote bag that sends money to autism research. All my internet reading leads me to believe that treatment techniques are really improving, that committed teachers and therapists and parents are really finding ways to reach kids now. I am thinking positive thoughts for you and beautiful Ruby.