look strange is actually an extraordinary display of strength derived from three primary sources .
First , I am strong because I have great partnerships .
I am often asked how I am able to successfully navigate life as a pastor and leader in my community . The answer is simple : I ’ ve learned that living on the autism spectrum requires me to have support . I have a race to run , but I can ’ t run my race without support . I can ’ t be strong without partnerships .
I have a wonderful faith community and a great staff . Together we have successfully created an environment where people can be educated on the type of support I need to be at my strongest . I am surrounded by love and support constantly , and the tasks that I struggle with are carried by members of our community who understand how to support me . My staff excels at accentuating my strengths , which makes me the best pastor and leader that I can be for the people I serve . I am strong because they partner with me .
My closest partner in life is my wife , Isabella . I have known my wife since we were both 19 years old . We have been married for 16 years . Together , we have three beautiful boys . My family is an amazing source of inspiration and strength for me . Long days and longer nights , sensory overload , social anxiety and communication challenges all seem to be absorbed by their love and support for me . Since being diagnosed with ASD , we have learned how to make each other better .
My wife is committed to helping me navigate social situations by making me feel safe , feeding me cues and clues and recognizing when I ’ m beginning to feel overwhelmed and stepping in to give me some relief . My children love their dad , and they learn from my strengths how to become better people themselves . They know that dad is different but that sometimes , in order to make a difference in the world , you have to be willing to be different . They see my routines , my resilience and my reflection time as guides to becoming better thinkers and more compassionate in accepting
ZOOM Autism through Many Lenses 11