Pilgrim

As I’m sure many of you have seen in the media and on social media, April was Autism Awareness Month. It’s not just a month of plugging awareness but also educating others and opening discussions. I myself was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome in 1995 so thought I’d write a small piece on being ‘autistic’ and having faith. In a short and simple definition, Autism is a neurological difference meaning people perceive the world differently. This can involve senses and communication (in- and outgoing). It’s a spectrum so no one person is the same as another and can go from ‘mild’ to ‘severe’. Autism is also a hidden disability: you cannot tell someone is autistic by sight alone. This can cause a plethora of difficulties and prejudgement from supposed friends, family members and the further community who do not understand or accept the way you perceive the world. Having a faith and being autistic is another conundrum: those who are autistic can often be seen as lacking in empathy ...