A mother’s perspective.
Written by – Ida Menezes
Edited by – Disha Harsha
As a mother of children with autism, I’ve learned to sail in a world that often doesn’t understand the reality of our journey. It’s a life filled with challenges, triumphs, and an unshakable love for my children. But lately, I’ve been hearing something that stops me in my tracks. The casual and careless use of terms like Autism and OCD as punchlines, excuses, or jokes in day-to-day college chatter.
Someone would say, “I can’t finish this on time; my autism won’t let me.”
Or, “Oh, my OCD is acting up; everything has to be perfect.”
These phrases float around so casually, sometimes followed by laughter or indifference. But these words sting deeply for those of us who live the reality of these conditions. Autism isn’t just a fleeting mood or a quirky excuse. It’s a complex neurological condition that shapes the lives of millions, including my child. When teenagers throw these words around lightly, they laugh off the experiences of families like mine and countless others. It’s funny how their words echo in our reality.
I often wonder, do they realize how much strength it takes for my children to communicate their needs in a world that doesn’t always listen?
Do they understand the countless hours spent in practice or the sleepless nights filled with worry about their future?
Do they think about the siblings who grow up advocating for their autistic siblings, learning compassion, and oftentimes facing their emotional struggles alone, but having to set them aside because they are not the priority?
Behind every word, there’s a story that many don’t see, and even if they do, they choose to ignore it.
For me and so many mothers, autism is not a joke.
It’s a journey that teaches patience, resilience, and undying, unconditional love.
It’s seeing the world through a lens of innocence and authenticity that many overlook.
It’s about fighting to ensure that my children are valued, respected, and supported.
Autism is our journey, not a punchline!
To those who make light of these terms, I urge you to pause and think. Words have power. Use them to build understanding, not to diminish someone’s life and experience knowingly or unknowingly. Choose words that heal, not hurt.
And to my fellow parents, siblings, and advocates, let’s keep spreading awareness and sharing our stories. Every time we do, we shine a light on the real beauty, struggles, and triumphs of our extraordinary children, siblings, and loved ones.
Kindness begins with understanding. Let us all show kindness to one another, one conversation at a time.