H woke up early this morning…“It is Christmas, Mom! C’mon… get up!”

Then quoting Mr. Scrooge he added, “I don’t know what to do! I’m as light as a feather, I’m as happy as an angel, I’m as merry as a school-boy…”

H loves Christmas and even at 15 he desperately wants to believe in Santa. As far as I am concerned – if it gives him joy – go for it buddy! I did meddle with this years ago – when H was in grade three… but I learned my lesson. (There is a link to that story at the end of this post.)

On Christmas Eve, H left out milk and some brownies that he made for Santa and a few carrots for his reindeer. Christmas morning, as is our tradition, he was met with a note of thanks and encouragement from the Jolly Old Soul. H read the note aloud to us:

Dear H,

Thank you, as always, for the thoughtful snacks. You have the true spirit of Christmas in your heart. I see this in so many of the things you do: the money you have raised with your wand project is a perfect example.

You are a craftsman, like me, and an inventor. You are creative and smart and curious, and best of all, you have a fine spirit and a warm heart.

I am proud of the work you are doing to speak to others about what it is like to be Autistic. You are helping to build understanding in the world.

I am pleased that you are learning about self-advocacy, and you are co-presenting with your Mom, and teaching others about what it is like for those who think and experience the world differently. I understand that, my friend. I sometimes find crowds too much, and I like to have time by myself to work in my shop. I guess that is why I like to deliver all of my creations when everyone is sleeping. Ho! Ho! Ho!

Please keep exploring your interests and develop your skills in these areas, and know that these are important. Also please keep doing the work you are doing to teach others about the beauty of diversity. The world needs more understanding, and you are becoming a real leader, H, who is making the world a better place.

I am proud of you, young man!

Love,

St. Nick

And there was a perfectly awesome gift…

H was thrilled with his sonic screwdriver and proclaimed, “I am the next Doctor… I am the last Time Lord, but my regeneration made me a 15-year-old child…”

Ah…. I love this kid!!

❄ Merry Christmas from our house to yours ❄

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30 Days of Autism is a project designed to fight stigma, promote civil rights, and increase understanding and acceptance for those who process and experience the world differently.

© Leah Kelley, Thirty Days of Autism (2013)