Book Review: Autism and the God Connection
Monday June 5, 2006
Have you ever noticed that people on the autism spectrum seem to have a unique connection to the unseen? In this unusual book, autism advocate and author Bill Stillman explores the idea that individuals with autism have a special relationship to the divine and the paranormal. This book is loaded with wonderful, first-person stories that are sure to interest readers -- whether or not they fully agree with the author's premise!
Comments
I’m looking forward to reading this book.
As a journalist, sometimes skepticism rules and belief in God is foolishly cast aside. For me, that all changed at a stop at the National Grotto in Emmittsburg, Md., six years ago.
My autistic son had lost much of his speech, and as we were leaving, he left one of his Batman dolls at the foot of the statue of Mary. “For mary,” he said
Granted, my wife had been working with him, but it wasn’t weeks later that his speech patterns began to change from mostly eccholalia to more normal usage.
Faith in the unseen? I think it’s a major player in my son’s recovery.
This book put into words what I could not describe about the way my child looks at a butterfly or has animals stop running to take notice of her..I have seen her kind and gentle with people in nursing homes while pulling their covers up for them when she was unresponsive to others.I have seen her take a persons hand who is kind and in need and avoid meanspirited people..this book is great.This book reminded me that people with disabilities are here on earth for a reason..to help others find their souls!
I have not read this book yet but am planning on it. I do believe my son with Asperger’s has a “special connection” as well. People seem to be drawn to him. They offer to buy him things or offer him help. Other children are concerned for him and try to help him when he has a meltdown. I always thought since he was old enough to walk that he would grow to be an actor, a politician, or a clergyman. He wants to be President. I wouldn’t put it past him. All I know is that there is a lot of love in that boy! He truly is a gift from God!