My Hocking Hills Trip

Story of My Life (#4) by Jake McClintick

October 25, 2018

My trip to Hocking Hills in Ohio lots of stupid times happened mostly because of my autism.The time I lots of slipping on the trail was bad. I not too sure why I got so mad about having to take breaks, but I extremely not happy to stop to rest.  Not most people have to rest, so it is stupid to have to do that. Most stupid to get mad about it too, but I no control not to get mad.

Not like the horse poop trail much either, but it was better than the slippery trail.  Most the other trails were better.  Had not the trouble of slipping or stepping in mud or poop.  Not so thrilled myself about how I did on this trip – too much stupid autism moments.  So much my life is not my control.  Not really sure how I can do better in these type of situations.  To not get so mad might help.  Not sure I can control it though.

Most mad at stupid autism, have to stop making myself mad about something I have no control over.  Have to really face my autism more lovingly instead of hate.

Jake McClintick is now 23 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), and it was his idea to begin writing “The Story of My Life” one day.  This was his fourth entry to that story.

Jake 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.