Thanks to the Pied Pipers

Thanks to the Pied Pipers
            Gratitude (expressing and receiving) lifts us mentally and physically. We don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving to be thankful.
            Sensory defensiveness makes people on the autism spectrum appear disconnected from their surroundings, but they’re paying way more attention than we realize.
            Special needs therapists, teachers, helpers, family members and friends act as a kind of Pied Piper. They capture the attention of individuals whose instinct is to turn away, and lead them forward.
            One of our son’s “Pied Pipers” miraculously guided him back to the outside world from a seemingly impenetrable sensory fortress that kept him practically housebound. 
            Though he is no longer with us on earth, every day I say a thank you to that remarkable young teacher for his “autism whisperer” intuition.
            The Pied Piper analogy hit me years ago when I looked at this photo of our son with his magical helper at Fort Point in San Francisco.
            Our son has been blessed with many special helpers. His Pied Piper of nature trails and cabins. His Pied Piper of emotional connection. His Pied Piper of being in a loud, busy world.
            Insightful and devoted teachers, classroom assistants, speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, behavior, communication, nutrition and education specialists… too many helpers to label. Doctors and dentists with astounding levels of patience. Friends and family who open their hearts and homes despite the challenges.
            To all of the people who offer help to families like ours, we thank you.
            This week’s Hike Notes are about visiting Fort Point, a Civil War era brick fort directly under the Golden Gate Bridge. The proximity to the bridge and stunning views makes this a place our family never gets tired of. It’s more of a “physically active outing” than a hike, but the stairs and waterside walkway offer plenty of opportunity for exercise!
            Please feel free to share. If you’re not able to take one of these Northern California hikes, hopefully you can enjoy the photos!
            The list of hikes is getting long! Please check the Quick View Hike List or scroll down the main Hikes page to see the current list of hike notes.
New this week:
Hike Notes 37: Fort Point