Bare Trees in Winter (Jake’s Imagery Writing)

After looking at a variety of photos showing various landscapes of bare trees Jake described his sensations using imagery writing. His finish to each prompt is in bold:

Bare Trees in Winter:

I see most interesting good friends more clearly.

I hear most nice kind of laughing.

I smell good smells of lonesome fires.

I taste holiday feasts.

I feel good to know not have to worry about the heat.

I think very interesting to seem only dead but not have death.

Jake McClintick is now 27 years old and has been learning to communicate using a letterboard since age 18. Learning the process of using a letterboard through the Rapid Prompting Method (RPM) was a gradual process that took several years. We are still working on expanding RPM and Jake’s confidence/skills beyond our “work sessions.”  Regardless, this low-tech alternative communication system has been an answered prayer for us both.

At the age of 22 he began expressing his very personal thoughts and feelings more fluently with me (his mom.) He is diagnosed with severe autism as well as intermittent explosive disorder. He has given me permission to share his story and our conversations. He continually expresses his desire to “find purpose” to his life…I hope his willingness to share will help others learn about this misunderstood condition known as “autism” that has so much to teach us all.