Temple Grandin shares how important it is to "re-think" how we understand autism and Asperger's. I was talking with a friend recently.  She knows a lot about autism.  Our discussion led to some sharing about an incident with one of her family members.  During the conversation she commented, "He's never been diagnosed, but I'm sure he has Asperger's." That discussion made me think about many, many adults I have talked with about their Asperger's diagnosis.  Most of them were not diagnosed until teen or adulthood.  One of the things many of them have shared with me is how "freeing" it was when they finally received their diagnosis. That diagnosis suddenly explained a lot of things in their lives that caused them problems for years.  Now they understood why they had difficulty going certain places or why they couldn't get along in school.  Cringing when they were touched or having a meltdown on an elevator made more sense. Temple Grandin, probably the most famous person with autism or Asperger's, is quick to see beyond the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorders.  She sees the personal strengths of these individuals.  That's what she focuses on in her new book. Different . . . Not Less: Inspiring Stories of Achievement and Successful Employment from Adults with Autism, Asperger's, and ADHD This book should be an encouragement for individuals with autism/Asperger's.  It should also give hope to the parents and teachers of these individuals.  Temple sees the skills and abilities that individuals with autism or Asperger's can have.  She sees their strengths.  She sees hope.     The description of the book states: This book is a compilation of success stories from adults with autism and Asperger's Syndrome.  Each shares what helped them during their childhood and young lives that made them the independant adults they are today. One of the most important missions Temple Grandin has is making sure people with autism and Asperger's make something of their lives.  As Temple says quite bluntly, "Being on Social Security is NOT a job choice." These unique individuals often have great potential in parts of their minds that neurotypicals never even start to tap.  This needs to be shared with the world. However, in order to share their hidden genius, they have to overcome many social obstacles. The point of this groundbreaking work is - it is possible, and it is WORTH it.  Let these crusaders, handpicked by Temple herself, show how it can be done. Let this work by Dr. Temple Grandin inspire you to your true potential.  You will soon see why it means so much to her. When we hear  about individuals with autism, we often hear about the problems they have.  One of the most important parts of the term Autism Spectrum Disorders is the word SPECTRUM. Temple's book will help the reader understand more about the gifts and strengths that those on the spectrum can experience.  Teaching them what they need to learn so they can fully use those strengths is our goal and our gift to them. Please comment.  

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