His “Call to Adventure”

A few months ago, I was reading Viola Davis’s book “Finding Me,” and she mentioned writer, Joseph Campbell and the Hero’s Journey. She wrote “a hero is someone born into a world where they don’t fit in…”

Though Davis and Campbell were both discussing literature and characters, my thoughts immediately turned to my autistic son.

I’m not one to label autism as my son’s superpower. Others have done so, and will continue to do so, and while I don’t mind, I don’t want to burden him with the expectation of idealizing something that he may not want to. When I say “hero,” I don’t mean it in that sense.

I want him to define autism on his own terms, based on his own desires and choices. I’m uncertain what path he will choose. Perhaps it will simply be a part of who he is—a struggle at times, and a strength at others.

We all have the power to interpret our experiences, whether we choose to or not.

So, when it comes to his own journey, I want him to understand that he is the hero of his own story.

He was born into a world that currently offers little space for him and others like him. That, in itself, makes his life challenging. He must fight, confront the obstacles, and overcome them—all for himself.

My son was born a protagonist. His “Call to Adventure” came on day one.

I don’t know if I am deserving of being his mentor, but I will be his ally.

While he is young, I will advocate for him and create a space for him in this world. As he grows, I hope he will communicate where he needs me to be.

If he wants me by his side, I will gladly stand there. If he needs me to maintain a distance, I will do my best not to interfere.