This book represents a selection of Danson’s writings from October 2007 to February 2008. Unless otherwise noted, all words were spelled out on his alphabet board. We considered whether to edit the misspellings in Danson’s poetry and came to the conclusion that we should leave them as written to give the reader the most authentic sense of his work.
Comment from admin
Time March 30, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Lori,
Thank you so much for your comment. If it does turn out that he is on the spectrum, and it is not a given that his current behavior is a CLEAR indication that he has the condition, without question the #1 health recommendation is for early diagnosis and intervention. You are at that point and it has been proven that with early diagnosis, the chance your child will go on to lead a “normal” life is greatly improved. What you need to do right now and after the assessment is to remain calm and loving for your child, avoid the “blame game”, especially on yourself, and ask lots of questions. Remember, if he is on the spectrum, all these children have very unique gifts to offer to this world and the parents are chosen accordingly. God doesn’t make any mistakes. You are not alone.
Comment from Denise Dupree
Time April 16, 2009 at 6:48 pm
Dear Michele,
I have just finished reading this beautiful book. It touched me deeply. Danson is right when he says, My book is making me lots of love in the world. Thank you for your courage, love and faith to share your life with the world.
Thank you for signing the book to my nephew’s wife and son who has autism.I will be sending it to her and I’m sure this will bring her hope.
Love to Danson and his wonderful family.
Denise Dupree
Comment from Ambur
Time April 21, 2009 at 10:48 pm
Dear Ms. Michelle i met you at south orange middle school and was extremely astounded and toughed by your beautiful speech. i went up to you and told you how i felt and you said,” you can tell a spirit warrior by the sparkle in their eyes.” even though i was so elated that you had given me a compliment like that i almost cried. everyday you deal with you beautifully son who is different, and i just have noticed that you are the spirit warrior.
Comment from Vanessa Gang
Time May 31, 2009 at 5:06 pm
May 31st 2009.
Dear Michele,
I’m sure I have not specifically told you how knowing you, in your teens, and having your wise energy and emuliance in our home with Tahri and Rick, supported me , a single mother of two children with educational special needs of dyslexia, and helped anchor our family. Through the years, hearing of your call to education, especially to the courageous leaderships of charter schools, Tah, Rick and I felt that thing we call ” inner knowing” that ” Michele’s gifts will help heal the world”.
Then we heard of the situation that turned your life upside down as Danson’s incidence of infection changed his and your worlds beyond description.
Danson’s book, you little preferatory edits about the moods which precede or follow a letter, are powerful in the way things of great mystery are full of power of the Unknown.
I find his writings riveting- what I call spiritual”inner knowings” are instantly called into focus, re-righting my attitudes as poetry or exceptional prayer may.
Thank you, Michele, for this beacon.
My grandson, Rick’s step- son, has a type of autism. His maternal grandparents are both teachers and helped me with the book, A Will of His Own. I will see them next week-end and give them a copy of Danson’s book.
Thank you for sharing yourself so generously with your gift to the world, Danson and for publishing your journey with him as his teacher that he might now become our teacher.
With admiration and affection,
Vanessa (Gang)
Comment from Lori
Time March 30, 2009 at 11:45 am
I have a 23 month old son who will be assessed on April 9th for autism. I am scared to death. He does not talk just noices however he does communicate what he wants and needs. I am scared for my baby.