What is Autism? Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). The other pervasive developmental disorders are PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified), Asperger's Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Many parents and professionals refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
How common is Autism? Today, it is estimated that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Government statistics suggest the prevalence rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually. There is not established explanation for this increase, although improved diagnosis and environmental influences are two reasons often considered. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis three to four times more frequently. Current estimates are that in the United States alone, one out of 70 boys is diagnosed with autism.
What causes Autism? The simple answer is we don't know. The vast majority of cases of autism are idiopathic, which means the cause is unknown.
The more complex answer is that just as there are different levels of severity and combinations of symptoms in autism, there are probably multiple causes. The best scientific evidence available to us today points toward a potential for various combinations of factors causing autism – multiple genetic components that may cause autism on their own or possibly when combined with exposure to as yet undetermined environmental factors. Timing of exposure during the child's development (before, during or after birth) may also play a role in the development or final presentation of the disorder.
A small number of cases can be linked to genetic disorders such as Fragile X, Tuberous Sclerosis, and Angelman's Syndrome, as well as exposure to environmental agents such as infectious ones (maternal rubella or cytomegalovirus) or chemical ones (thalidomide or valproate) during pregnancy.
There is a growing interest among researchers about the role of the functions and regulation of the immune system in autism – both within the body and the brain. Piecemeal evidence over the past 30 years suggests that autism may involve inflammation in the central nervous system. There is also emerging evidence from animal studies that illustrates how the immune system can influence behaviors related to autism. Autism Speaks is working to extend awareness and investigation of potential immunological issues to researchers outside the field of autism as well as those within the autism research community.
While the definitive cause (or causes) of autism is not yet clear, it is clear that it is not caused by bad parenting. Dr. Leo Kanner, the psychiatrist who first described autism as a unique condition in 1943, believed that it was caused by cold, unloving mothers. Bruno Bettelheim, a renowned professor of child development perpetuated this misinterpretation of autism. Their promotion of the idea that unloving mothers caused their children's autism created a generation of parents who carried the tremendous burden of guilt for their children's disability.
In the 1960s and 70s, Dr. Bernard Rimland, the father of a son with autism, who later founded the Autism Society of America and the Autism Research Institute, helped the medical community understand that autism is not caused by cold parents but rather is a biological disorder.
Playing make believe as a child can be very exciting. As young girls and boys growing up, we have pretended to be school teachers, models, artist, and even actors/actresses. It’s funny how you create who you are early in life and not even realize this may become a part of your reality as adults. We grow, go to school grab all the education we can and get a job to make ends meet. But is that what we really want to do for the rest of our lives? Maybe, maybe not! We are pretty much drawn to success based on what we have seen from our upbringing. Momma and daddy went to work every day and brought home their money for bills and such but did we ever ask if they enjoyed what they did? It is important within this lifetime to follow our hearts and do what we dream of doing. Allowing ourselves to be happy within our careers is very important. Being in a situation of work and not enjoying it can become redundant and very unpleasant. I am a Human Resource professional. Do I enjoy the career that I grabbed a hold of in order to make ends meet? Yes its okay, but those dreams and aspirations that I have are becoming more and more to the forefront of my life. Yes, we understand that we must make money and being a success takes time and takes money but always, always follow your dreams. Your dreams can become a successful reality. Allow life to take you to another level and enjoy what God has put upon your heart to do. We all have creative minds; we all have ideas that can be more than an idea. Step out on the faith that your God has bestowed and do what needs to be done. Love yourself enough to do what you want to do in your life to make you happy. Because life is what you make it. Celebrate your life and be the person you were put on this earth for. Never sell yourself short and think you do not have the ability to be all you can be in this world. You are more than a blue or white collar worker. You are a musician, a poet, a writer, a model, an actor/actress, a beautiful human being that deserves everything you could ever imagine. Never let the devil come in and tell you that you cannot do it. You can do anything you set your mind to. Remember trying is an opportunity to fail. We are not failures, no matter what the naysayers speak. Keep your head up and rise to be YOU.
Forgiveness the Catalyst to Deeper Healing and Wholeness
By: Leticia Mathis
The questions raced through my head. Why all of this pain? Why do the people that are responsible for loving me hurting me? Where is my God in the mist of all this pain? Crimes against humanity!!! Why wasn’t my humanity protected against the crime(s) of child sexual abuse and domestic violence? Was I not significant enough to protect? In my finite understanding I tried to make sense of the senseless.
My earliest memories are that of pain, chaos, and abuse. My eyes have witnessed things that in very profound ways shaped who I am. My heart was crushed and my soul burdened by pain. Yet my spirit remained untouched. The acts perpetrated against my flesh could never alter the core of who I am. I am a spirit that possesses a soul and lives in a body. The abusers thought they had me but the power of my spirit could never let them win. My spirit was untouched. Stripped of my virginity. Stripped of my innocence. Stripped of my childhood. Stripped of my trust. Stripped of my safety. Yet my spirit remained untouched.
In no way, shape, or form will I ever minimize the devastation of rape, CSA, domestic violence, or incest. My journey has and still has traces of anger, sadness, and unanswered questions. However, I refuse to let them win. I refuse to give over my power. The right I have to live a healthy, happy, and fulfilled life.
Healing must meet every emotion head on. Healing must include process and patience. Healing must embrace time. Healing requires stamina and a resilience we all have. Healing hurts and that is the reality. Healing also requires forgiveness.
Forgiveness takes healing and wholeness to a new level. Forgiveness is about taking back all power and being void of all bondage. Forgiveness is not about condoning the abuse. Forgiveness is not about having lunch with your batterer/abuser. Forgiveness is about moving forward. At the root of the word forgiveness is the word GIVE. One of the greatest gifts I could GIVE myself was to forgive the men that had violated me. How could I even entertain such a concept? Why should I extend myself? After all I was the one abused and violated.
My journey has taught me that the abuse I sustained tried to rob me of my power, personal choice, and of my voice. I was tired of operating in fear and as I analyzed the two, forgiveness would yield me a better chance at wholeness. My heart was heavy. I sought God, prayed, and meditated. I knew deep down that I was bigger than the abuse.
One evening I was lying in my bed. I realized that I mirrored Jesus on the cross. I formed a perfect letter “T.” I had left my abusive husband six months prior and was eager for my new beginning. The face of each abuser flashed before me and I cried and cried. I purged myself of the hate and betrayal I harbored. The tears just poured out and I felt all of my pain. My past was being crucified on the cross. My exhaustion was taking over and soon I heard FORGIVE!! I named each abuser and said, “I forgive you!!” It was at that moment that I felt freedom and peace.
This spiritual exchange took my healing to another level. I am not implying that all experiences have to be this intense. Nor am I suggesting that without forgiveness survivors can’t live happy and productive lives. My desire is to help my fellow sisters to reach deeper levels of healing. To see things from an angle that has not been explored. I do believe that the deeper we dig the deeper impact we have on others. On those days that I ache and hurt because of my history I think about this night. On those days that I am angry and fear tries to set in I think about this night. On those days that history tries to define the totality of who I am and tries to rob me of my self-esteem I think of that night. The reality is that through it all my spirit is untouchable.
Forgiveness has allowed me to be a better parent, daughter, sister, friend, teacher, and human being. Forgiveness has restored my faith in humanity and allowed me to love healthier. Forgiveness has fueled me with compassion and a passion to strengthen others.
Forgiveness has changed my lenses. Forgiveness has given me back my power, my choices, my voice, and my freedom. I celebrate my untouchable spirit!!!!
It's an interesting question for all of us to ask ourselves. If we're honest, most of us would probably admit that while there are areas in our lives where we display some discipline - it is probably not the word you would use to describe the way you move through your days, weeks, months and years.
And yet while we secretly wish for a fairy Godmother who could magically wave her wand and instantly bring about the fulfillment of all of our hopes and dreams - for the most part we realize that when it comes to creating success, it's pretty much up to us. Still, wouldn't you agree that discipline is just one of those words that doesn't seem to have any fun in it? I know that for me it conjures up images of a stoic, beak nosed teacher walking up and down the classroom aisles frightening children with the sound of a ruler slapping against her palm...Many of us automatically equate discipline with deprivation, pain, struggle and basically automatically doing something no matter how badly you don't want to do it.
I'm not suggesting that discipline doesn't take work. But let's look at the five areas where having discipline really matters - both in terms of the results you'll create AND the added joy and fulfillment it can bring into your life.
Have a morning routine. How many times have you heard that "breakfast is the most important meal of the day?" It makes sense doesn't it? So many of us jump out of bed at the last minute, race to get dressed and into the car - maybe grabbing a cup of coffee on the way out of the door. Is it any wonder that we're dragging by the time 10:30 AM rolls around? Starting your day right is certainly about getting good nutrition, but it is also about feeding your mind and spirit with positive energy and focused intention on what you are going to accomplish and who you are going to be in the world. Your daily practice is personal and should resonate with you. Powerful elements might include time spent in meditation and reciting your personal mission statement. Who are you and what are you about? Consider also using statements of gratitude and/or affirmations. Reminding yourself of all the ways you are blessed and using statements that reinforce your self belief will put you in a space to do your very best work. Having the discipline to begin each day with a morning routine might mean setting an alarm for 30 minutes earlier than your usual wake up time. But it is a practice that will pay off with significantly improved peace of mind, productivity and the fulfillment that comes with knowing why you're doing all the things you're doing.
Record and review your goals. In Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill says "Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire, and begin at once, whether you are ready or not, to put this plan into action." Having the discipline to write down your goals will provide clarity with regards to your exact intentions. Regular review will keep you in a constant state of almost unconsciously looking for ways to bring your goals into reality. Your days will no longer be filled with lists of endless tasks that seem to get you nowhere. Instead you will feel yourself constantly and steadily moving forward in the direction you desire.
Be a life-long learner. If you are open to it, some of the most important learning you will do in your life will happen long after you have finished school. Brian Tracy, a renowned success coach, says that if you want to get into the top 10 percent of your field, you should be reading on that subject for at least one hour each day. Consider the areas of your life where you know you need to sharpen your skills: organization, financial management, investing, particular aspects of your career - and have the discipline to put some of your time and resources into workshops and seminars that will help you to create constant growth and improvement. Discipline in this area also requires balance. There are going to be things we are more comfortable studying than others. Make sure you are challenging yourself to study in areas you might be inclined to avoid because you are fearful. A great teacher or coach can help you to break past hurdles that have stopped you from reaching your full potential.
Protect your physical well-being. There is nothing that will improve your mental and physical state faster than getting up and getting moving. Exercise is about so much more than your weight, it's about having the healthy heart and energy levels that will allow you to stay in action on the things that matter most to you. At the risk of sounding like your mother, make sure that you are eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and work to get 8 hours of rest every day. Keeping these things constant in your life will absolutely make you feel great, which will undoubtedly make you happier and more productive.
Have fun. It is hugely important to have discipline about keeping a sense of fun and play in your life. What are the things you enjoy doing the most? Put these activities into your schedule. Every month consider challenging yourself to try something new. Have you always wanted to snowboard or to try a trapeze class or to learn how to sing? There is no better time than the present to do the things that can bring you joy and excitement. Think of it as the fuel that will bring you back to your work with renewed energy and confidence.
There you have it. Discipline shouldn't be a word we fear but rather a word that can bring us a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Committing to consistency in these five areas will bring about lasting and positive change in our lives - helping us to be all that we want and are able to be.
Abundance Bound was created to support actors, artists and creative professionals in the development of financial stability and independence. To learn how to begin the journey towards prosperity, register for the free resources available at www.AbundanceBound.com
These are indeed challenging times we are living in. The unemployment rate is at staggering numbers, and nothing we need to purchase, has decreased in cost! If we are blessed to have a job, many of us are in situations where there is a high demand for us to work to meet goals that are humanly impossible; and this is just for the sake of keeping that job (just over broke) so we can pay our bills! We're able to make ends meet but we are not even in our dream homes or living "high on the hog"! We're living but, we're barely surviving! Sometimes we drag ourselves out of bed for a 5 day work week. We punch the clock and put in our time at the office. We do a good days work for nominal pay but, we neglect our families, and we certainly don't take time to take care of ourselves! What do we do when it seems we are dying for the sake of making a living. In most cases, just quitting is not an option, and unless your last name is Rockefeller, the likelihood of you being able to just step out on faith with no money, and being able to survive on the long term basis, is an unwise move, especially in this economy.
Well, what can we do? First of all, pray! Whatever your religious background is...I think this is a good time to tune in to your personal, spiritual channel. Take time everyday to pray and meditate. Developing and/or improving your spirituality is the only way to maintain your peace in this tumultuous season! Secondly, take time for yourself. I know this is easier said than done but, it is imperative that you make yourself, make time for you! Even if you have to squeeze 5 minutes in, it is worth it and this will make all the difference in the world, trust me! Buy those shoes, take a walk, go for a drive, do something for you, as often as you can! I have learned, over the years, that our families, jobs, businesses, churches, etc., will take, and take, and take from us, until there is nothing left! You may wind up having a wonderful funeral but, when it's all said and done, they will have your replacement ready to keep things moving. No, I am not saying that anyone can take your place, but I am suggesting that the world will not stop when your gone. I don't know about you but, I'd rather be seen and not viewed! Finally, make an escape plan! Start that business that you have been fantasying about for years! Do your research, find out if the area you live in has a need for what you want to do. Pool your resources and determine how much you should use to start the business; figure out how much you have access to, to survive until the business takes off. You may not be able to quit your job right away, but taking the time to work on what you're passionate about will boost your outlook on life, big time! Maybe you can even work part time while you pursue your business endeavor. Looking for a new job may be another option to make you feel better. If you hate your job maybe there is a better one out there for you! I know what "they" say about job availability but, if God wants you to move on to something better, all things are possible, with Him! Ask everyone that you know to pray and to assist you with your job search. Consider positions on a lower level that may afford you the opportunity to move up. Explore options you have never considered before; after all, we are here to enjoy our lives not work to live! Don't forget to breathe, and hold on to the hope that things can and will get better, sooner than you think!
It’s been almost 15 years since i became a license cosmetologist. I would gladly say that I didn't choose this, it choose me. As most, I started out young doing my own hair then graduating to others, and then I realized that it was to my advantage to get formal education. It came easy to me because my mind was open. So allow me to open your mind if you will.
In a time where artificial hair, weaves, extensions and wigs are prevalent in our community, let the desire or interest to be choice not forced!!! As a hair stylist and one of a creative mind I change my hair with my clothes. I won't dare waste the time to tell you the pros and cons of expressing yourself through your hair, just want to urge you to take care of what's "yours."
Did you know that your medications could have effect on your hair? How about the use of box relaxers verses professional relaxers? What about the danger of over processing your hair whether its color or relaxers? The importance of protein and moisture? That there really is a difference in a hair cut and a trim? The pros and cons of pressing hair? Follow me!
Yes, medication can affect the strength, porosity, and elasticity of your hair. I have found over the years that some of the shedding and breakage of women hair stems from the fact that they are on high blood pressure medication and/ or thyroid meds. It’s something about the meds that really weaken the hair that is beyond damaging. Most clients I've encountered over the years I've been able to convince them because they are on one or both of these medications its to best to either stop getting the relaxers or stretching the retouch out a little longer along with adding protein and reconstructing regimen to their hair care. Over a short period of time the hair indeed become stronger and healthier.
If you choose to relax your hair, it really is to your best advantage to not use store bought (box) relaxers that you mix. These relaxers over time cause calcium build up and hair looses its natural shine. Remember calcium equals strength, so though you think your hair will be strong and to an extent you are right, however it will be so strong that it will loose its movement, elasticity and it will eventually break. Most the time when you are applying your relaxer at your home you will place the product on hair that has previously been relax. This also is not good; this makes for over processing and again results in breakage. The same results can occur when applying color.
Moisture (hydration) and protein is very important with keeping a healthy head of hair, especially if you use hot tools such as curling and flatirons consistently throughout the week. The constant use of heat can be very drying so the use of moisture shampoo and conditioners can help your hair retain the moisture lost during styling. Avoid using hair grease, sprays with alcohol and heavy creams.
