“If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins.”
Benjamin Franklin
There are things we all wish we could change. Whether it is physical, psychological, or social some things are just inherent in us. Of course some things we can change. The important thing is knowing the difference.
“God, grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
the Courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
-The Serenity Prayer, Al Anon
Yes, there are things about myself I would like to change, but alas cannot. I can wish upon a star till I’m cold and blue in the face. I will never be 5’9″ or be an extrovert. I will never travel to Mars and I will never have the chance to fight with the Browncoats on the Firefly Class ship, Serenity. So I sing the lyrics. I will never be able to sing either.
“Take my love, take my land, take me where I cannot stand, I don’t care, I’m still free, you cant take the sky from me…”The Ballad of Serenity
I am a person who puts great value in self-growth. Everyday is a new chance to grow. If you want to be happy you must challenge yourself and live every moment in the present. Here are a few of he things I have done to improve my life.
1. Use a hobby to connect with people. Join a club in which members share the same interest. You will be able to talk endlessly about your obsessions and people will look up to you for it. You are the expert. I am a member of The House Rabbit Society. Here I can learn and also give advice to other members. This has helped connect me to other rabbit lovers.
2. Do one thing daily that scares you. Keep doing it. The more you do it the easier it will be. I started being open about my experience as an Autistic. I talk about it and blog honestly. Being open is how I met a very dear friend(Miriam). She is the one who sparked my love of writing. I love you, girl!
3. Being open to criticism can only help you improve. Other people can see what you cannot. Knowing about your short comings can only make you stronger. Remember, there is always room to improve.
4. Investing time in your community can do wonders for your soul. Find something you’re interested in and use it to help people. I started volunteering in 2014 after a full depressive breakdown. I love biology so I chose the Science Museum. Going weekly opened me up to socializing again. It is through helping people that I recovered. If I get the job at the museum, I will work there and volunteer with local Autistic groups for people who are lower on the spectrum than I. Having an understanding of Autism will make me a valuable volunteer. Great pride comes from making a difference.
5. Follow your passions. They are the path to happiness. This is something you already know. We ARE Autistic. I have a love of vintage fashion, music, and dance. I think this comes from having older parents. I was exposed to great music early. Some of my favorite artists are The Beatles, Ella Fitzgerald, Patsy Cline, and Big Band Swing. Big Band lends itself to dancing. Who can resist dancing? NOBODY!! My drug of choice is Lindy Hop. Hooked on Swing Dance! I have met many fine people through dance. Most Swing Dancers are nerds. I am a nerd. I found a place where I am comfortable with physical touch!
These are only a few things that have made my life more enjoyable. This is my experience. And it worked for me. I have become more social. I can communicate more naturally. And on occasions I can tolerate touch. I hope to inspire others to try new things and grow as an individual. What is life without growth.
aspiegirl85 