Everybody has trouble fitting in but sometimes it's like trying to hug an angry tiger. I'm not afraid to admit that I'm not the strongest person and I'm not the most athletic. Kids my age are more concerned with "winning" than team work and peoples feelings. For example...In gym class last week, 2 boys left my team for volleyball because we were losing. That is poor sportsmanship. It's not fair to the team and it hurts my feelings because I know it's partially because of me. I try my best and that's all anyone can do. What really stinks is that these are the same people who jump at the chance to be in a group with me during academic activities. It's frustrating because they are friendly when they need my brains and treat me like dirt when it comes to athletics.
I don't judge people by their abilities, I judge them by character. It's becoming easier to see who has character and who does not. I'm honest and follow rules , infact I'm rigid when it comes to rules. I've found myself at odds with people more than once because I think rules should be strictly enforced. If I see someone breaking them and feel the need to let the adult in charge know.....I do and that has caused problems. I'm NOT a tattle tail! I just know what the rules are and that they should be followed. (here's where mom interjects again....that is part of the AS....rigitity for routine and rules. He really isn't trying to be a goody two shoes or a tattle tail, rules are rules in his world and if someone is breaking them, an authority figure should know. Other kids don't see things that way all the time and get very angry with him for "telling".)
when you are excluded from a group it's like being a Jedi without the Force.So, to everyone who has been excluded from any group, try not to get discouraged because someone, somewhere wants and needs you in thier life. To those who exclude others, one day someone will make you feel excluded and you will know the hurt and lonliness I feel on a regular basis. I hope I am around when that happens. Not to say I told you so or how does it feel, but to help you up and let you know that I understand.
The fact that he understands the real importance in life of how others should be treated is one aspect that every child should know, no matter what syndrome they have. Elementary school was the worst for me because kids were so "mean," and they were...very mean. But he realizes that treating others well is more important than winning, thats something every kid should know, and every parent should instill.
ReplyDeleteNathan, you are inspiration to your Big Cousin and it is my prayer the wisdom you are sharing with others yields even greater fruit than you could ever imagine. Keep being the great example! Love you much, Cousin Christopher
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