Of Hope, Love and Joy

By Olive Medina, ASP Laguna Chapter

This is my third year of celebrating my birthday with the angels of Autism Society Philippines Laguna chapter. This group of parents with their young adults with autism have been such an inspiration to me. How they have managed to establish the Resource Center and reach to as many families in similar situations, armed only with their dedication and trust in God’s providence, is truly inspiring. So, in my own simple way, I have made it my commitment to be a channel of God’s blessing to them as they have been a great manifestation of God’s immense goodness to many.

ASP Laguna family riding a boat in Nuvali

This year, I together with some of my friends, family and friends of friends were able to send the group to Nuvali, Laguna for picnic and fun activities. We had a wonderful time doing boat rides, fish feeding, outdoor games and just hanging out together.

Living with autism has moments of great challenges and difficulties; but with it also comes great moments of unwavering hope, unconditional love and simple joys. I never thought that after years of being exposed to the realities of autism within and outside my home, I can honestly say that it has been my life’s greatest blessing. I am constantly evolving to become the person God intends me to be.

From an outsider, it seems that individuals with autism have a world of their own. But when one get to know them and see them for who they are and not fit them to any idea of what a “regular” person should be, and then one can realize that we have one world after all. We can truly live in harmony despite the differences. All it takes is love without limits.

“When you love, give it everything you’ve got. And when you have reached your limit, give it more and forget the pain of it. Because as you face death, it is only the love that you have given and received which count, and all the rest: the accomplishments, the struggles, the fights will be forgotten in your reflection. And if you have loved well, then it will all have been worth it. And the joy of it will last you through the end.” - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, The Tunnel and the Light

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