NJ Finds an Aspie Role Model?

So I've spent a few posts gushing about super cool people with AS.

Here's why I think it's important to keep telling these stories, and sharing them with our aspie kids.

I was showing NJ's mother the ESPN video about Clay Marzo - the world-beating pro surfer whose intensely focused personality has rocketed him to the top of his sport.

While she was watching, NJ ambled over to check it out.

He watched Clay ripping up these massive waves off the shores of Maui.

Even though NJ isn't a surfer - yet - he was clearly impressed.

I told him the young man's name.

And that was about all. We haven't sat NJ down and talked about what Asperger's means or anything. Seems like too heavy of a concept for right now.

Anyway, later we were swimming in the pool and NJ starts balancing with one foot on his floating pool mat. He was telling me, "Watch me, Daddy." He then went through a series of "tricks"... closing his eyes, no hands, the whole bit.

I told him I was going surfing this weekend (they give free lessons in Deerfield Beach, near my house).

And I told him if I liked it, I would start taking him out with me.

"Like Clay Marzo!" he said.

Exactly, I said, surprised he remembered (when will I stop being surprised at amazing things NJ does?).

I told him that Clay and him shared similar personalities in a lot of ways.

"Did he have to go to Therapy Spot?" he asked, referring to the play group he attends, often under protest.

"He did," I fudged. "He had to do all the testing and all that stuff too. He found something he loves to do, and he's doing it. You can do the same thing."

I know I was treading a fine line. You don't want to set up unrealistic expectations.

But again, I've already given NJ permission to fail.

But I won't give him permission to not try.

I love him too much for that.