After 25 years working with children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, I've witnessed countless inspiring stories. One moment, in particular, remains etched in my memory: a mother weeping on the sidelines of our soccer field.
Her son, despite his near-genius IQ, struggled with loneliness and making friends. I invited them to join our soccer practice, despite her reservations. She was concerned he might lash out, become uncomfortable, or feel overwhelmed. But when she saw the supportive and encouraging environment on the field, and watched her son enjoy group interaction for perhaps the first time, she was moved to tears.
Their attendance became a regular part of their lives. Each Saturday morning, her son would eagerly climb into the car, hours before departure, excited for practice.
This soccer event was no ordinary game. It was part of the E-Sports program at Bay Area Christian Church, where I serve as an elder. This program is intentionally inclusive, offering activities for all kids, regardless of their abilities.
Inclusive practices for children with autism and other special needs might sometimes be seen as a trend or political stance. However, the drive to include everyone is a deeply ingrained part of our humanity. It represents the best of who we are as individuals and as a society.
True inclusivity extends beyond just accommodating special needs—it involves deepening our understanding and compassion. Often, we use euphemisms and disguise our prejudices, masking our fears and discomfort. To truly support and understand individuals with special needs, we must confront our own biases.
Consider self-injury, a behavior common among those with autism. Many people overlook that these individuals may suffer from chronic pain, which they can’t communicate or alleviate. This behavior is not simply a quirk but a response to unaddressed pain and discomfort.
Understanding this requires approaching special needs with humility and a willingness to learn. These individuals are not problems to be fixed but people to be valued and loved. Shifting our focus from self-centered concerns to truly understanding others is crucial. This shift is foundational to Christian love and highlights our own areas for growth.
When we marginalize those with special needs due to ignorance, discomfort, or fear, we risk extending this marginalization to other groups as well. Our moral and emotional challenges are rarely isolated; they reflect broader patterns in our relationships.
The church plays a vital role in fostering right relationships, including those with people who have special needs. It is a unique space for sharing God’s love and support with all individuals, especially the most vulnerable.
While a personal relationship with God is irreplaceable, the church also serves by providing practical support—friendship, social support, and material assistance. Ministries designed with special needs in mind can be transformative.
A child with special needs is fundamentally no different from the rest of us; they are as much bearers of God’s image as anyone. Engaging with them often brings unique moral and emotional insights. We should not relegate them to the fringes or view their needs as solely behavioral, which can lead to dismissive attitudes.
People of faith are uniquely positioned to exercise compassion and use their talents to support others, regardless of their professional background. Everyone can contribute in some way, and as Christians, we should strive to see both our needs and the needs of others as opportunities for greater love.
We are inspired not by those who have an easy path but by those who persevere through adversity. By joining others in their struggles, learning from them, and offering support, we may find that our own lives are profoundly transformed.