The Time Before the Apple

For a while now I've been thinking about how we're living in "the time before the apple." Joel has no idea that he's considered different than any other kid. I don't think he's even aware of the word autism. Eli mostly just wants to do all the things his big brother does. He doesn't realize Joel is loosely classified as someone with pervasive developmental disorder (what a horrible title and misnomer all in one).

I wonder how long this innocence will last? I wish neither Joel, Eli nor Cara ever had to hear the phrase autistic spectrum disorder. Why can't Joel just be Joel and people accept him for him without explanation. Ever since I realized Joel's brain was wired a bit differently than most I've mentally rebelled against the notion that he has to change to fit in better. Why can't he just be himself and other people just deal with it?

I know we don't live in a perfect world and there will continue to be many uphill battles for my Joel and his difficulties with social interaction, language and appropriate behavior will probably continue throughout his life.

I don't look forward to that day of self realization for Joel or Eli. It's something we all have to go through. Coming to terms with being different and our individual weaknesses and shortcomings. Still for those among us who deviation from the mean is far greater than the standard its a significantly harder row to hoe.