(By Mairo Danlami)
We hear a lot about autism in the news and from families who care for children with autism. We don’t hear nearly often enough, however, from children who actually live with autism. A speech by one young man, Eli Rosenberg, shows that we should do more to help one another.
He talks about his journey at Pinetree Elementary School — going from severe difficulty with social skills to being able to stand on stage and give a speech. By the end of the speech, you’ll want to join the crowd in their standing ovation.
He says:
As we leave here today I have a challenge for all of you. We are all different. Not less, just different. We all have things we’re good at, things we need to work on, and things we need help with. Whenever you see someone else who is different, instead of just judging them or being a bully, I challenge you to offer help and treat that person with the kindness you have shown me over the last six years. Remember, all of you can make a difference in someone’s life. You’ve already made a difference in mine.
What an amazing young man. If only all children with autism could have such positive experiences. Sadly we know they don’t always, but it’s heart-warming to see such a great example of kindness and inclusion
We hope everyone can learn from this. Help people up, not push them down. After all, nobody is completely complete; we are all trying to be better.
Click here to watch the speech
