Defining what autism means to you and the grind of dating absolutely put me to tears. Dr. Kerry Magro gives helpful tools on:
- Overcoming major obstacles following unexpected outcomes
- Your accomplishments that have led you to this moment
- Detecting the needs of those around you
- Things you want others to know when it comes to friendships and dating
Learning from someones unforgettable experiences will always leave a huge impact on my identity and what it takes to be the best version of myself. When I think about one of my biggest inspirations, I feel and see the progress I make.
I am more than grateful to have developed a camaraderie with a neurodiverse athlete who wrote history playing a game that I love at a high collegiate division. It is more remarkable when you closely connect with the greats who play at the highest level. Never forget that all of the hardwork and perseverance in accomplishing your dreams pays off when you position your senses and not let pessimistic remarks get in the way. I grew up watching basketball with my father along with playing at my recreation center and in high school. I still follow basketball and will continue to for the rest of my life. If Anthony Ianni and I meet in-person, I have no doubt we will make time to shoot some hoops.
Always view the greatness of the autism spectrum and observe what makes an autistic individual unique. One thing that is beyond empowering to watch neurodiverse individuals take advantage of precious opportunities that change their lives for the better. I recalled that showing your own characteristics resembles being who you are as a person. It is all about the tools you use to know the real world we live in. To share a close connection with the co-authors, I am very proud to be close friends with Tom Fields-Meyer’s son Ezra, in addition to being on the podcast that Dr. Barry Prizant hosts.
I have realized that having an open mind when answers are not black and white will guide you to new experiences. Everyone’s personal growth is different and there is never a right or wrong way. When I met Dr. Stephen Shore during my college visit at Adelphi University with my mother accompanying me, we sat in his office discussing special education and the integrity of supporting those with special needs. Soon after, he invited me to give a brief talk for one of his classes. Since then, he has been a wonderful friend that I am beyond proud to have and doing what it takes to follow his footsteps.
Diving into the relationship drama through a true story, I have learned that letting love find you is the most remarkable gift that nobody else can offer. As important it is to find someone who embodies similar values, drafting a questionnaire is usually not the best strategy for having a perfect match. To my perspective, the moral lesson is being faithful with the possibilities of furthering a friendship, no matter how hard it may be to comprehend someones differences. Never forget that actions speak for words.
I love to learn new inventions and create stuff made in paper and other plastics. Someday, If I ever have the mandatory supplies, I would absolutely complete the amazing projects Dr. Temple Grandin explicitly states. Temple, it was an honor to meet and be in a photo with you when you introduced this wonderful children’s book. I am delighted that we have a similar trait, which is using our visualization skills to remember what we have seen and how we can apply. All of your inventions have been a great asset in supporting those on the spectrum who love to build things.
David Sharif 