I read most of last week's various threads on autism because it hits kind of close to home. I can kind of relate to some of the highs and lows expressed by others; my Godson, my 14 year old nephew has Asperger's.
He and his mom just happened to be staying with us for a few days (they live in another state).
On Sunday we had no plans until dinner, so while the wife, sis-in-law, and nephew lounged, I went for a ride. Stopped for a break, I called home to see where and when to meet for dinner, and the question was posed. Apparently, this kid that had never shown any interest, decided to ask his mom if she thought I might take him for a ride! In anticipation, they had found him a helmet and jacket hoping I'd agree. I was hesitant, but said we'd talk about it at dinner. I spent the next hour thinking hard about how to go about it, explaining what he might see, feel, and hear (I didn't think he'd like a helmet on, doesn't like loud noise, has a hard time sitting still, etc.) along with instructions I'd give any new passenger. I was ready!
After dinner, we went to an empty parking lot and following all my instructions to a tee, we did a few laps and figure 8's. This was as much for me as him - at 14 yrs the kid's 6' and 200 lbs! I think leaning kind of freaked him out, but because I explained it to him beforehand he did ok. He was ready!
Down the road we went, only a 15-20 min. ride home, but was it great! He never made a sound, got used to leaning, did well for a first timer. Damn gnats kinda got in my eyes a couple of times on the way (and a couple as I type), I really never thought we'd be able to do this.
When we got home, the grin on his face was ear to ear and priceless! I think mine was too!
Since he played in my world, I had to play in his. I have a hard time at it, but we spent most of the rest of the night playing his video games, and I loved it. I feel closer to him now than I ever have.
Sorry so long, but I had to share.
What a fantastic day!
