“Growing Up With Autism and Never Giving Up”
“I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against me.”
Daniel writes:
My name is Daniel. I am 25 years old. I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder with Psychomotor Retardation at the age of three.
I went through some very difficult times growing up with Autism. I was often picked on and made fun of. It was from these very difficult situations that The Imagifriends were born. The Imagifriends live in a place called Imagiville. In this imaginary place no one is ever picked on or mistreated in any way. Everyone is loved and accepted for who and what they are. Everyone in Imagivile helps and cares for one another.
Each Imagifriend that I draw is different. They come in many sizes, colors, and designs. None of them are ever mean or cruel. They each have their own special job and purpose in Imagiville. Every Imagifriend knows that as long as they have a kind heart it doesn’t matter what they look like. Some of them are physically or mentally handicapped but that’s O.K. I have just had my first book published too. It’s about acceptance and respect for those with Autism.
I want to use The Imagifriends to help others with Autism know that they are special just the way they are. I have created The Imagifriends coloring book and I do Imaginames. That is where I create an Imagifriend out of the letters of your name and connect them. I have also written my first book called My Imagiville. I donate a portion of what I earn to The Autism Help Network and to my wonderful church, Hope Community Church.
Being Autistic has presented me with many challenges in my life. From these challenges I have learned to never give up. I want to thank the Lord for giving me the talent to draw and I want to use this talent to help others. Remember, “Everyone is Special Just the Way They Are!!!”
I have a new website, www.My Imagiville.com. On the website you can read more about my mission for acceptance for those with Autism. I hope everyone has a great blessed day everyday!!!
Please note that the views expressed in this story are not necessarily the views of the American Bible Society. Story posted on January 21st, 2009 and filed under God's Love, Hope, Bible, Your Stories, Loving your enemies, Evangelization, Life Verse.
January 29th, 2009 at 11:47 am
Daniel, I love that you are able to use the talents and gifting that God has giving you to give Him praise. Continue to do what you do! Thanks for sharing your story!