Puzzle Pieces

Good afternoon!

We have all seen by now that the symbol for autism is the puzzle piece.  I see this as a symbol of the inner complexities for those on the spectrum, as well as the outer challenge of finding that person's place in a difficult world.

By nature I believe that all people are a picture that is made up of many pieces.  We are born with a set of pieces, but we are not a complete picture.  We collect more puzzle pieces as we go through life.  Some are bright and colorful, while others might be darker.  But like a puzzle, EVERY piece is important and the picture cannot be completed without them.  Some are so important in our lives that they become the corner pieces that frame the entire picture. I believe when we have close relationships or relationships with great impact, whether for better or worse, we add more pieces.  

Tyler is made up of many pieces as well.  So many people may not realize how much they have contributed to his picture.   He has a very unique personality which he brought into this world all by himself.  But there were others who gave him pieces through their love for him, or their tremendous talent to help him, or by just being by his side.  

For those of you reading this....parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers, therapists, friends, nurses, pastors, etc...you are all a piece in someone's puzzle.  When you show love and compassion you are adding colors to their picture.  

Living with and working with someone with special needs is a labor of love.  I've yet to hear anyone say they have purchased a yacht with the abundance of money coming from it.  The hours are long, the pay is low, and the job can be hazardous. But we don't do it for money do we?  Or for pats on the back.  Or for Nobel Prizes.  We do it because a person needs our help.  We do it because we believe that no matter the circumstances every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and have their basic needs attended to.  By doing this we add very important pieces to their puzzle.

Tyler has added incredible colors to my picture.  Many of them are amazing and bright, while some of them are darker and swirling.  But there isn't a brush stroke that I would change.  

Be well and God bless.  Tom