In the collective imagination, autism is often perceived as a shell, as an extra, removable layer that encases an individual's real self. Something separate from the whole, separating their true self from the world.
This metaphor, while evocative, is profoundly misleading.
Autism is not an appendage or an optional attribute. It is intrinsic to the person it inhabits. It is as integral and inseparable as the bones within a turtle's shell as it is with our own bones... our own shells.
It is not curable, it is a description of a neurotype. There is nothing to cure!
Misleading Metaphors
The metaphor of autism as a shell suggests that it is something one can shed, overcome, outgrow, or cure.
It implies that beneath this exterior lies a "normal" individual, waiting to emerge. Simply hidden from view.
This view is not only reductive but also harmful. It disregards the reality that autism shapes the very essence of a person’s experiences, perceptions, and interactions.
There is no separation from their inner world to the outside world. To remove autism would be akin to stripping away the turtle’s shell and expecting it to survive... an impossibility, as the shell is part of its skeletal structure, vital to its existence and identity.
Imagine YOU were told all of your experiences and feelings were not real because they came from a place of... ...not you!?!!
Intrinsic Integration
Another thing is that Autism is interwoven into every aspect of an individual’s being.
It influences how they process information, communicate, and relate to the world.
It's all they are and all they know. It's how everything they are, and all of who they are, and all of what they know, is built from. It is their only world.
Autism is not a detachable condition but a fundamental part of their neurological wiring.
Just as the turtle's shell is fused with its bones, autism is fused with the person's identity.
This integration means that any attempt to separate autism from the individual is inherently destructive, not only to their sense of self but also to their cognitive and emotional integrity.
This, the main driver of their frustration in this neurotypical world. We need people to be knowledgeable and so to be...
Embracing of Neurodiversity
Recognizing autism as an integral part of an individual calls for a paradigm shift in how we understand and approach neurodiversity.
Instead of seeking to "alter", or "normalize", or "correct", the "behaviors" of these individuals on the autism spectrum, we must appreciate and accommodate their unique talents, perspectives, and abilities.
This requires a deep respect for the diverse ways in which people experience the world and a commitment to fostering environments where all forms of neurodiversity are valued. The resistance to the change is what we will discuss next...
The Fallacy of "Curing" Autism
This one is insidious. It presupposes that there is something fundamentally wrong with neurodivergent individuals.
You can't argue with presuppositions!
You first have to argue the presupposition itself. "Why did you beat your wife, sir???" Presupposes YOU did beat your wife... whether or not you actually did anything of the such.
The ball is in your court to defend that you didn't actually do it as it's already assumed you did. Let alone... why!
The notion of a cure presupposes a clear delineation of autism as a thing to be rid of... to champion the demise of.
The notion of curing autism is as flawed as the metaphor of the turtle shell.
It suggests that the goal should be to make autistic individuals conform to neurotypical standards, rather than embracing their distinctiveness.
It suggests they remove the shell to be their authentic selves. This perspective not only undermines the inherent worth of autistic individuals themselves but also perpetuates a culture of exclusion and misunderstanding.
True acceptance lies in recognizing that autism is not a burden to be lifted but a unique way of being to be understood and respected. Whether you agree with the individual or not.
Calling for Compassion and Understanding
To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of autism, we must move beyond superficial metaphors and simplistic solutions such as I put forward here.
We must listen to the voices of autistic individuals, understand their experiences, and acknowledge that their autism is an inseparable part of who they are.
This understanding fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and encourages a society that values all neurodiversity types.
In conclusion, autism is not a shell that can be discarded. It is an intrinsic part of the person, as essential as the bones within… as essential as the turtle's shell to the turtle.
Any attempt to separate autism from the individual is not only futile but harmful.
We must embrace and respect the whole person, understanding that their autism is integral to their identity and experience of the world.
This profound shift in perception will pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate society, where all forms of neurodiversity are celebrated.
I welcome inching forever forward in that direction.
Cheers…
Mr(turtle)Joe