It's a sound-related response to the things going on in the video (recorded while I was watching the video). Sound-related stuff is obviously not all I was doing in the video.
Thank you so much for making this video. I work with youth that have a range of disabilities, some verbal but still their communication style is often overlooked. I am going to share this with my students and encourage them to make and post their own videos. Thank you so very much!
Oh okay. That's probably because in the video I only have a certain amount of time to say a whole lot of things, and over a number of comments I can say things I didn't have time to say. Also, although I have my own way of relating to the world, I am often (not always) perfectly capable of doing what I said in the video and switching into other people's language if I have to.
Wonderful! I'm struck by your title, "In My Language." It seems that the language metaphor gets in the way here. Could I make a suggestion? People for whom language comes easily control their psychological lives by using stories (paradigmatically, plot and character). They live autobiographically. Perhaps others have alternative ways of controlling their psychological lives. Perhaps some use music (paradigmatically, rhythm and melody). If so, then perhaps they live autobio-musically?
thank you for posting this video i have two atustic sons who are non verbal to the normal world i seem to understand them just fine .. this video was completely normal for me as with a few of the others you have posted i understand them completly but only because my son's have taught me your language.. but to learn it you have to care enough to listen
i think chrisaira is exactly the type of person she's responding to ... you are obviously a narrow minded person who has never met another with autism or relating disability =(
YAY this was chocolate ice cream! flappy! 5 stars! I totally understand this on so many levels. Although I am verbal and "high functioning" I could never verbalize what I am able to think, feel, experience, or write. I understand the delight in smelling things etc... etc... on and on, rave rave! Why haven't I watched this before?
Anyway, my last comment may have been unclear. You did open my eyes to a new way of thinking. I just think the burden is on both sides to bridge communication gaps, not solely on the side of society at large.
Interesting video. I do not see you as sub-human or anything of that nature, but I am uncertain that I see your language as a meaningful form of primary communication as it is non-standard even among those who are autistic. I mean, if I had spoke a language that only I knew, is it really a language?
Also, is it really the burden of society to have to learn the individual language of each autistic person in order to communicate with them?
This is so touching, and a relavation. I have never been the type of person to make fun of or think people with disabilities as "bizarre", but I never thought about the things you've said in this video and it helps me understand things better, you are an amazing and couragious person for posting this.
Thank you for this video. I teach a class of sensory autistic teens and always strive to understand their language and needs and hope that I have never considered my students to be any less of a person than anyone else.
But I'm a bit worried about the idea of deficits that has been talked about in these comments. I think that if there are differences, one cannot consider *either* side to have a deficit. We can only hope to build understanding from *both* sides. I hope to do my part in that.
It's so amazing that, although she could not learn her own language, she was able to create her own. This is one of the best examples of the progress of Autistic people I have ever seen.
personhood has been overvalued at the expense of intelligence, annihilating, slaughtering our finest impulses (to seek, discover, create, involve and evolve..be in love). read still life with woodpecker: for the subject of "Objecthood": the secret life of objects: a mental laxative to free humankinds mind from the occasional p
Bravo!!We "normal" people move too fast through life to realize the importance of many methods of communications, outside of verbal. We put too much emphasis on what's stated as opposed to what the meaning and purpose of what's communicated. There would be more peace on this earth if all listened and felt, instead of spoken and assumed.
Thanks for your awesome insight. The brain is powerful and hopefully people will realize that all human life is precious, regardless of differences.
Very interesting. I do not think people who are 'different' should be treated 'differently' or unfairly because they are misunderstood? When it comes down to it though, we are all different.
At the beginning i found this video haunting and creepy,
but as i kept watching, i could actually almost understand you.. i found this video very beautiful.. it gave me great insights of autism...
I'm currently doing a project based on autism.
My objective is to destroy the misconceptions about autism. You are true evidence of all the wrong misconceptions. Just for your info, you gave me great inspiration for my school assignment :) Thank you!
Thank you for sharing. I think many nerotypical people can watch this and recognize something in it. The singing reminds me of monastic chanting, and the tactile experiences bring a similar kind of experience to mind. I am interested if that is the feeling you have at the time. It sparks alot of questions about equality and opportunity... The more that society creates mechanisms that enable every person to contribute their talents and gifts the better off we all will be...
Thank you for taking the time to learn that language enough to say this message...it is unfortunate that this message even needed to be made, but as it did and does (need to be said...in a language they will understand) thank you, thank you.
This has been life changing for me, and helped me to understand my autistic son better. It is hard to understand and relate to at first, and to some it may sound nosey like the shamens, but once you settle down and relate to it, you can hear the oneness. Its music, its oneness. I think she is a kind lady, strong and truthful, and even though she doesn't behave in the way we expect, either do some tribesmen but there still human and living their life as they wish too. Thanks for this vid
Thank you for letting your voice be heard. It is a scary turn of events when those with disabilities become invisible because they don't act in a way we perceive is normal. I hope that this video allows people to understand Autism beyond black and white. It certainly did for me..
Unfortunately, when people (scientists or general public) find somebody not understandable, they just label them as "strange", "deficient" or "inferior".
It happens to people with autism or other mental conditions, but also happens to another race (black, asian) or another species (dolphins).
We use our self-centered, over-simplified standard to judge other beings. After watching your video, i realize that how foolish and arrogant we are... Thank you!
Unfortunately, when people (scientists or general public) find somebody not understandable, they just label them as "strange", "deficient" or "inferior".
It happens to people with autism or other mental conditions, but also happens to another race (black, asian) or even another species (dolphins).
We use our self-centered, over-simplified standard to judge other beings. After watching your video, i realize that how foolish and arrogant we are... Thank you!
In all fairness, it is unusual to expect millions to learn one new language rather than one person learn a new language in order to communicate with each other.
I have pretty low autism, but haven't had a temper meltdown in a long while. My mom is always...I don't know...astonished when I say I smell something she does not even smell.
I used to have a habit of rocking back and forth. Whenever my mom would see me doing it, she just had to tell me to stop!
I hope I am not making you feel like some kind of spectacle for me to study, rather I wish to gain insight in to a new world of interpretation and communication that I have never entered! Can you tell I am a musician? haha Truly, if you are in 'a world of your own' I would like nothing more than to come visit!! I hope all the attention you are receiving is not suffocating and that you keep expanding our minds!
I am so glad to have seen your video and really want everyone to see it. I am so fascinated by your different levels of communicating and of thinking, but I also wonder which aspects of normal confused people, like myself, you share. Do you experience music similarly, or is your constant communication with your surroundings a form of music on its own? You mentioned that you can sing along with what is around you; I wonder if you can describe that any further. (to be continued!)
Wow. I've never before thought in the way that you're saying in the end of your video. That it's also we who can verbally express words that are limited in our communication skills, if we can't speak your language. Thanks for giving me that insight!
I'm born with a disability myself and though I'm able to express myself in a language the rest of my world understand, I feel that people around me doesn't think highly of my intellect or thoughts.
Have you stood by a storm drain sucking in torrents or stood by a culvert out of which water's roaring and been exhilarated so you don't leave? Some wait for Jesus but the autistic senses the divine often. Their hearts leap up though they lack the poetic: "My heart leaps up when I behold A rainbow in the sky.So was it when my life began;So is it now I am a man;So be it when I grow old,Or let me die!The Child is father of the Man;And I could wish my days to be Bound each to each by natural piety"
You Movie moved me, our whole House alot. Thank you soo much for sharing, it is so mind opening for us and makes so much sence with all expierence of live, nature, and the universe. Much Love from Kauai from the House of Bliss. You are real and yes your effort will help more and more to understand the whole. Thank you. Much Love! Enjoy your Bliss.
I'm afraid that soon, people who don't go along with the dominant language or thoughts will soon be extinguished. I don't want to live a life where I have to speak someone else's language and ignore my own. What can I do?
Many of us that were amazed by your video and who changed forever our political and social viewpoints because of your statement, would like to make any possible effort to understand and speak your language. Now that we have a common language through computers, is there any way that you could teach us more about the language itself beyond what we can already see in this video?
you are definitely right that not all people communicate in the same way. I personally see all "inanimate" objects as beings, made by someone, for a specific purpose. Every person isn't made for a specific purpose in mind, so in my opinion, people are less important than the things that they craft. I have realized this today when I was doing play therapy with an autistic girl that I am helping to take care of. I think that you really need to keep going with this. My eyes have opened. Thank You.
You aren't communicating shit. You're fiddling around with the crap in your room and making toneless noises. How can you even begin to claim that you're having a conversation, when you're not even establishing any sort of sense? You're like a homeless man screaming at parked cars and calling it a "debate".
Wow. I truly learned something from this video. I'm going to watch all of your videos, silentmiaow, and forward them to friends. I have a nephew with Asperger's (sp?). Your video helps me understand a little better how he perceives the world and interacts with his environment. You are a terrific writer, even by the standards of a "native speaker." Please keep making videos. This is true art.
Wonderful video, but I have to ask: should thinking--any kind of thinking--equal personhood? Is that all there is to a person? Is that all that we should value and protect? It seems that your argument would lead to a marginalization of those things and people that cannot think.
I am so glad that somebody said all this. You so clearly articulated the things that have been bothering me for a while. I really enjoy your videos. They are very insightful. Please keep doing them.
i appreciate this video. however, 30,000 children die every day from a lack of basic necessities like food and water, while they actually exist in abundance. personally I am challenged to look at these issues as priorities. this in no way discounts your message, just a view on why I personally do not feel I can take up that struggle, other than in my own personal actions and conduct towards other autistic and cognitively disabled people.
First of all, I'd like to state that I have been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, so don't think I'm an autie-basher. However, I disagree with the message you are sending in this video. We live in a society in which the standard form of communication, by and large, is verbal. Sure, this puts the LFA community at a disadvantage, and I'm glad you have a way to communicate in English. You go a bit too far by suggesting that verbally-communicating individuals adapt your form of (con't)
First of all, I'd like to state that I have been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, so don't think I'm an autie-basher. However, I disagree with the message you are sending in this video. We live in a society in which the standard form of communication, by and large, is verbal. Sure, this puts the LFA community at a disadvantage, and I'm glad you have a way to communicate in English. You go a bit too far by suggesting that verbally-communicating individuals adapt your form of (con't)
eh, i dont know what makes your language so great. as far as i can see all your doing is "interacting" and nothing more. In my language, i can communicate with millions, if not billions of other organisms. what can you do in your language? put your hand under running water? i can do that too
"Presumptuous" is an odd word too. I presume you refer to the hypocrisy demonstrated if one applies the word to the thoughts or actions of another, since the act of calling something "presumptuous" is, in fact, an act of presumption; you presume to know the thoughts behind the words or actions of another.
I thank you for pointing this out. I hadn't considered that before.
Certainly, I have been presumptuous AND I may have completely misunderstood you. This is the word's usual connotation.
I found out only recently that I have Asperger's and I am still trying to figure out what this means for me and for my future. Your message planted in my mind the thought that maybe the way I am isn't 'wrong', that it might be okay to just be myself, not always trying to 'be like them'. This video brought me hope and gave me inspiration. It has opened up a new world for me--someplace I, as myself, may be able to really feel as though I belong.
Umm, I'm not trying to be mean or anything but can someone explain what the hel this is and why eople are saying this is "amazing" and it changed their lives?
To me looks like some weird lady rubbing her face on boos and eating pens...
WindTouzoku: Try looking at the feeling that each action would give. You can't tell me that you haven't rubbed your face on anything? never chewed on a pen etc? Never did anything you instinctually wanted to do? Clip challenges 'everyday thought of the majority' There really is no wrong or right. Only perceptions of what should be. To try not to judge or assume something to be 'wrong' as who is to say it is right? Hope this helps. Great you asked,not everyone would take the time to question. :)
My sentiment exactly. Retards and autistic thought process aren't deep and profound. They are retards for god sake! Their mind are random and unable to hold a thought for more than 2 second. They aren't able to dwell into the the deeper meaning of life. These people who make this video are just showing us shit and telling us this is a work of art.
I'm glad to know not everyone are mindless sheep on youtube.
you can conclude that she is weird, and like what Amanda herself is aware of, others think that she is a non-person and unthinking. but can a person like that type and express herself so eloquently and meaningfully? just remember that every one else is every bit of a human as you are. Amanda has just taught me that, and that's how this video has changed me . thank you Amanda =)
It's very difficult to explain, but what's going on here, is a person with autism is trying to explain why she behaves the way she does. She's basically saying that every movement she makes is a way of communicating with everything in her environment. It's amazing because she is successful in helping people without autism understand her point of view. You should read more about autism if you don't know much about it, then you'll learn how awesome this video is.
Do you have any idea what autism is? This woman has autism and this video is an experiment to show us what her life is like, how she hears and sees things in her world
She's conveying her emotions and thoughts in a way not accepted by human society, she's speaking in a language that is not known by us, so we outcast her, and people like her. She's not "weird lady rubbing her face on boos and eating pens..." As she says she speaks by interacting with her environment, which is all things, using all senses, hence "eating boos". This is amazing because you see the story from a different point of view, it gives you perspective on her life.
We tend to limit ourselves to the classic meaning of things:we taste food, and only food because we fail to see the practical purpose of other objects, the woman does not limit her communication with her environment under guide lines given by others, and that there are other forms of communication not less valid that ours....i hope this makes some sense....?
I agree. I have an autistic son, alot of them have malabsorptions and copper overload. I reckon the behaviours are part of trying to keep yourself with it (stimulated), alot are alwasy stimmering (self stimulatory behaviour) brains are starved of nutrients. My son is improving on a casein/gluten free diet etc. Alot have leaky gut. SHALL WE ACCEPT HUMANS TO BE ALL LIKE THIS?! We should be understanding the chemical imbalance in children that head but, don't speak!
it something called understanding i have autism too and yet i have no idea ether but whit i just figured it out it shows everyone bout her languge its sorta a suiritule video
What you see as "some weird lady" is another person interacting with the world in a way that you do not understand - which is precisely the way the "weird lady" sees you. I would respectfully suggest that you spend some time with people on the Autism Spectrum; perhaps you will find some kind sympathy and understanding for people that are not as pedantic in their thoughts as you.
The point is this woman has autism and she is trying to tell us what it is like, and to respect autistic people. Plus, a lot of people would not make a video of this, but she is willing to show us how she interacts with the world, no matter what people think of it.
Are you serious or just kidding around? If you had a autistic person in your life, you would understand fully! My nephew is autistic, and has been since birth! He is extremely intelligent, just has no social skills that we could perceive. It is hard to get into his world as we do not understand him. After being told there is not much anyone can do but except the condition, we saw this video. We tried the voice synth. program and have made a breakthru in communication with him!
It shows a different way to see the world and that her actions have a meaning. It is like your language, to the outside it makes no sence, but in reality it has a maening, like her language.
Thank you, Silentmiaow, for communicating this insightful information with us! You've confirmed what I've always felt . . . there is so much more to each one of us than meets the "general public's" eye. Please continue to share your world with us!
wow... Amanda, I have to say, you could make a really powerful documentary with the talent you have. I never really thought about how each sense is a key and each object a lock. You are amazing!
I can see how this is a non-symbolic (ie this is a sign for that) language but is communicative. It is like music. Music is a wonderful form of communication - and this reminds me of what some call Noise or Improv/experimental music. Are you familiar? Artists like Keiji Haino, Merzbow, John Zorn, etc. They would have performances on YouTube.
something about your video strikes a chord of 'truth' within me.
As i communicate 'normally' but for example if i met yu would wish to communicate with yu in 'your' language i am wondering how i would do this? or do yu have to be a 'native speaker' in order to?
Well it's not really a language.... a language is defined as communication with other people... I doubt you could adequately express your views on... say the current Tibetan political crisis to any other person. That's not to say it is not communication... but it is not a language.
and your mind is clearly so limited that you can't possibly think that maybe it is YOU who are deficient in your communication skills. autism may be the next step on the evolutionary scale of humankind. we may not need spoken language" in the future, as many people are opening up to telepathic communication. this is a fact, not science fiction. it may be that she is so more far advanced than the rest of us, that WE are the ones who are left behind with our menial verbal skills.
I do not agree. Why can't we be considered equal. Why does man always have to create an imbalance. We just need to respect everyones differences and THINK a bit more!!
What a beautiful picture you have painted here! My son was recently diagnosed with autism and this wonderfully composed film has made me reconsider everything we have been doing with him. I would say it has changed my perspective of ASD as a whole. In the early intervention program my son is in it feels as though we are forcing him to change because he dosen't speak,we never even considered that he already has his OWN language, and that WE are the ones that need to learn how to communicate....
what a beutiful picture you have painted, it's a color I've never seen before! my sweet son was diagnosed with autism in october of 07 and this video will help me understand and appreciate him and his language for the rest of our lives. Thankyou for making it and sharing your story with the world! It's beautifully composed, and I think it will open alot of people hearts. I want so badly to understand my son, what can people do to learn your language and the languges of autism?
Interesting vision of your perception and interaction with your surroundings. With all due respect, I believe calling this a "language" is far fetched and somewhat presumptuous. I can´t see how sensory perception can be considered a language as such as it´s defined. Furthermore, your "translation" should be called "explanation" as that would be a more sincere term to describe it. In a world where basic languages still do not provide understanding, a unique non-verbal "language" is a hard sell.
I agree, odd word. Breaking this video down to semantics (communication vs. language) is clearly missing the point. I believe silentmiaow is able to communicate with her surroundings on a higher, or at least, more profound level than any of us will ever know.
Wow, you are so absolutely right. I have ADHD which, while it is very different from autism, still results in people misjudging me and treating me like my brain's defective or something, but it's not defective, just different. Thanks, this video really encouraged me to be myself and I hope that more people will treat you fairly and respect you for the wonderful person that you are.
Wow, you are so absolutely right. I have ADHD which, while it is very different from autism, still results in people misjudging me and treating me like my brain's defective or something, but it's not defective, just different. Thanks, this video really encouraged me to be myself and I hope that more people will treat you fairly and respect you for the wonderful person that you are.
Amanda, you are a brilliant, beautiful, and brave human being. Yes, I'm in an alliterative mood today. :^) You are so eloquent, and so articulate, and being as I have autism myself (Aspergers), I understood right away that you were demonstrating tactile sensations: the coolness of the water against your skin, the softness of the cloth, etc. I totally relate to that, but I've always felt that I had to hide my differences. We 'auties' are not inferior, just different. Keep up the awesome work!!
I used to be able to hide some of mine, now I can't, and I've figured eventually out how to not be ashamed that I can't, which is part of the message.
Thanks, Amanda. I very much relate to these ways of connecting to the physical world. I am a vegan and an animal rights advocate. Being on the spectrum has taught me that the universe is of many minds and many beings. While we are beautifully diverse, we are all of the one universal source. Neurodiversity and a holistic approach towards all beings is the way forwards. Thank you again. -Crew
I don't mean this to be a mock in any way, just a person to person connection on the same concept. Thank you for bringing more of our world to our world, it makes me happy and think about life a little better and differently. X) Keep it up babe.
Yes, heard of it, and disturbingly enough been subject to a few impromptu Turing Tests who thought my communication device was some kind of trick. o_O
Wow i never thought that there was a different kind of language in touching and intereacting with things around us. I always thought it was wrong of me to feel that when i did or to talk about it with people because they would find it weird or boring.I'm just a normal intelligent person but i like being in contact with my surroundings and objects as well.
Silentmiaow. Tjis is my 6th time watching this video. Thanks for bridging the gap. I have an ADHD diagnosis with a lot of assorted 'impulsive' traits like fidgeting, tics and playing with stuff. This stuff has always had meaning to me but I nevertheless find myself repressing it because it is socially unacceptable, freakish etc...Your words bridge that gap of understanding so eloquently. Your video is liberating to watch. Thanks.
By far the most compelling blog I have viewed.There is a beauty to your language which is difficult to describe yet so easy to see.Thank you for sharing.You have a beautiful mind.So understanding to a world that would hardly pause to understand you.You have taught me much about my own shortcomings and assumptions.Thank you again.
I have never posted a comment to a youtube video but I felt compelled to after watching your video and reading your article in Wired magazine. I appreciate the brilliance in your way of thinking and communication. Your video is highly effective in creating an understanding for your way of living. I am extremely grateful for that and I will carry that with me.
I would give anything, ANYTHING in the world to speak the same language as my son. I'd go to school round the clock. I'd spend every last cent I had. I'd study until I fell asleep at my books. I just don't know HOW.
Watching this I am reminded of the world and communication of Contemporary Performance Art in a college with no grades and no majors. My ex wanted to break up with me because he couldn't understand why anyone would stand nude and think of all the ways one could interact with a jar of tic-tac mints. He called it "CHEATING " because I was nude. I get constant criticism from people who ask, "How do you get a degree without grades or majors? What do you do?" We get credit for learning your language.
Hi Amanda, I saw you on CNN today, a co-worker brought in the video and we all watched it together. I work in a classroom with 3 and 4 year old autistic children and we all were inspired by what you are saying. It sort of goes against what we were taught about autism and how we are supposed to try and teach the children to "look normal" to the rest of the society. Now we see autism in a new light. Thank you so much. If you have any advise for us, please let me know.
Thank you, thank you, Amanda. I read the article in Wired magazine and then saw your videos. My daughter is autistic, and what they would call 'high-functioning.' I love the way she thinks even though it's a deficit on MY end for not always understanding.
Thank you for helping me be a better mother and a better person.
I hope my comment gets posted this time. I recently got interested in the lost Solfeggio scale and the miracle (MI) frequency 528 HZ and I thought I heard he was singing that! I never thought autism is a disease. It's a gift to all of us in many ways...
I doubt I have perfect pitch but I think the singing in this clip is from the Solfeggio Scale - specifically the 528 Hz frequency. I always thought autistic children came here with a special gift and not a dis-ease.
we do not understand your "language." Before you were able to communicate to us via typing, did you wish you could communicate with us non-auties? Is it "lonely" interacting with the environment but not other people? Can you understand the body language of other auties, and communicate non-verbally with them?
Sorry for so many questions but you've opened up a whole new world to me! Thanks so much, looking forward to (hopefully!) hearing from you.
I could speak for awhile (I have a movement disorder associated with autism that has made the speech I did gain impossible now), but a lot of it was not communicative (nor was a lot of my typing, I had a lot of disconnects with language in general to work through), and yes it got lonely when that was the case sometimes.
(Continued above) For instance, I would have no idea how to communicate meaningfully to you if we did not type back and forth. I would not understand your gestures. You say that you are interacting with your environment - it seems like a different concept than what I have when I communicate. I would love to understand more about it.
Obviously you are interested in communicating with people, since you blog. We non-auties would not understand that you are, without your typing, again because
Amanda, I am fascinated by you. I am studying to become a special needs teacher and came across an article on you, and then, of course, your Youtube video.
There is so many things I would like to ask you, if you would be interested in answering.
I think that the reason that people have wrongly assumed that people like yourself are "retarded" is because we had no "language" with which to speak to people like you prior to now. (Continued below)
Beautiful and profound. You expressed so clearly everything that I only felt and could not relate to others about my brother who has Down syndrome and about us as humans unable to understand so many things, yet thinking we are somehow the pinnacle of creation. Thank you for your video and your statement. It is much needed.
I've tried to look at all or part of all your videos. NOT ONCE have I seen you typing with a monitor showing the words being placed on a screen. How can any of what you "write" be considered valid if you can't even post a video showing you typing and the words showing up on a screen. - It's not enough to show your fingers at a keyboard moving. With all the videos you have, it doesn't seem to ask to much to show this happening.
Good grief, do people who narrate their videos offscreen have to prove they're really the narrators?
When I made this video, I had one dinky little digital camera that recorded 1.5 minutes at a time and had no tripod mount. I had to set it where I could. That meant bad angles sometimes.
I've been interviewed by CNN and Wired. CNN showed me touch-typing. Is that good enough for you, or do you think my communication devices come programmed with long intelligent answers to new questions?
I found this so beautiful and calming. I do all of the things in this video on a regular basis and it is so wonderful to have someone who understands and doesn't think I'm a "freak."
judging whether or not it is tactful. many people consider this unkind, but I see it as more rude to hide what people think about things. To me, that's lying. So I say what I mean.
I won't deny I do not understand your language, but I understand that you are a human like me.
I like this video. I think that the different types of intelligence are very interesting. My friend's sister is autistic and she has certain skills and observations I would not have made. She is a skilled camerawoman for a channel on this website.
I beleive I read something on how some people learn best by reacting to their environment. Is that like you?
I have had a much toned down but similar reaction from people I know from the way I act. I am a very direct and blunt person, and say(V)
Thank you for that video. Your point is very clear and powerful. I wonder if a "private language" might be practiced by everyone between short bursts of communication. ? What do you think?
I loved this video. I have Asperger's Syndrome, which is considered a "higher functioning" form of Autism. While I don't speak your native language, I do think much differently than "normal" people. I was ridiculed growing up because I "acted weird" and was unable to socially interact "normally." Thank you for making this video. Hopefully one day people will stop looking at Autism as a disability, and no longer judge us as inferior beings.
i watched this today with my whole entire class it was really cool that autistic people cannot be under estimated i heard u made this all by yourself thats really cool
Amanda is proof that autistic people have so much to offer us as a people, and society in understanding how we have in the past silenced others, in doing so, limiting there unlimited potential and growth with poor judgement and bias.
A step in the right direction for preventing others from developing autism would be to remove Thimerosol from children's vaccines, the leading cause of autism.
Be that as it may, that still doesn't change the fact that you miss, are truly a inspiration to everyone.
I suggest everyone watch this video linking autism to vaccines; youtube(dot)com/watch?v=4zJrkPJXAh0
Please, the least everyone can do is research these claims.
Language involves a sender sending a message and a recipient who is able to interpret the message and respond back. Language is a "two-way street". This is true from humans down to insects
Interaction with the environment involves only one element(i.e. flows in only one direction). While the video may make a valid statement about self-reflection and individual interpretation, the author's premise that this constitutes a "language" is simply not valid.
Any object will react with the application of some kind of energy(whether it be heat, kinetic, etc). Results don't necessarily equal "language".
Example--When I turn on my lava lamp and watch the wax melt, the lamp is simply responding to the heat from the light bulb. No one would seriously believe that the lava lamp is trying to communicate with me.
While well-intended, your theme about "language" collapses under careful scrutiny.
I guess the reason why many people don't consider the manner in which people with autism communicate language is because everyone grows up being told what everything is, and everyone else agrees on what everything is, and when they see people like you, they think of it as a disability. It is similar to the fact that 500 years ago when the spanish came to America for the first time, they considered the natives as "disabled" since they did not have modern technology or speak the same language.
Thank you so much for making and posting this! I volunteered breifly at a therapy center for special needs children and I was always taught that "steming" was bad and that I should stop it immediately but this video has completely changed my outlook. You have succesfully and beautifully "translated" this concept into a form that non-autistic persons can understand. I'm going to send this to my mom and her boss, who work with autistic persons.
thank you for your gift of insight. As we are all individuals with unique gifts of personality, it is in part what makes our world the beautiful place that it is. Hopefully, there will be a day that we all appreciate this fact and rejoice in it. Until then, individuals like yourself, help in the journey. May God Bless...hugs
Wow, just amazing. Thank you for this glimpse into your mind and language. I'm not autistic but have always been "different", and experienced the world in my own way. Thankfully I've had the ability to interact with people in the "expected" way, and to incorporate the other ways I view the world into my art, writings and philosophies on life. Simply amazing, thank you again.
Certain things you do remind me of how I used to play as a child. I used to believe that very high certain pitches would move the clouds in the sky and bring out the sunlight. Imitation is a major part of "our" language. I think that anyone with intuition and compassion can key into the beauty of your poetry. Language is poetry. We just get used to hearing one type I guess. What do you think? Please let me know what you think of my song...
dear rollingalong, i think you miss my point entirely, but since you are not the only one, the problem would appear to be in the words i chose rather than your perception of them. what is it that you understood me to be saying? i did write privately to amanda doing my best to clarify. however, given that no date has appeared in the "date read" column, i don't think she has read my message. not much i can do about that. i would post it publicly but kinda wanted her feedback first.
i read your article in WIRED and it really made me feel guilty for following the popular mindset of autism as a form of schizophrenia. But I really love what you said about having a constant conversation with your surroundings. in fact, i'm kind of jealous! I admire you greatly, and am highly appreciative for your insight into a different view on reality and thoughts as a whole. I look forward to learning more about this offshoot from the (boring) "norm".
I don't think my previous comment got through, I've been commenting on others. If it has, sorry for the repeat.
I'm in grade 9, I'm neurotypical, as you would call it, and we watched the CNN interview in Socials class. To say the least, I was amazed. Your intellegence is an eye-opener to me, I knew very little about autism. Your optimism should be an example for everybody.
In socials class we watched a report on CNN where they interviewed you. Before it I knew nothing about autism and I had never heard of you. When I saw all of this I was utterly amazing. Seeing this makes the world seem more... welcoming. Your optimism should be an example for us. I love the video, perfect rating. :)
It's a sound-related response to the things going on in the video (recorded while I was watching the video). Sound-related stuff is obviously not all I was doing in the video.
silentmiaow 3 years ago 17
Thank you so much for making this video. I work with youth that have a range of disabilities, some verbal but still their communication style is often overlooked. I am going to share this with my students and encourage them to make and post their own videos. Thank you so very much!
boudica82 3 years ago 138
Oh okay. That's probably because in the video I only have a certain amount of time to say a whole lot of things, and over a number of comments I can say things I didn't have time to say. Also, although I have my own way of relating to the world, I am often (not always) perfectly capable of doing what I said in the video and switching into other people's language if I have to.
silentmiaow 3 years ago 6
Wonderful! I'm struck by your title, "In My Language." It seems that the language metaphor gets in the way here. Could I make a suggestion? People for whom language comes easily control their psychological lives by using stories (paradigmatically, plot and character). They live autobiographically. Perhaps others have alternative ways of controlling their psychological lives. Perhaps some use music (paradigmatically, rhythm and melody). If so, then perhaps they live autobio-musically?
glcomstock2 3 years ago 54
thank you for posting this video i have two atustic sons who are non verbal to the normal world i seem to understand them just fine .. this video was completely normal for me as with a few of the others you have posted i understand them completly but only because my son's have taught me your language.. but to learn it you have to care enough to listen
rachael596 3 years ago 109
i think chrisaira is exactly the type of person she's responding to ... you are obviously a narrow minded person who has never met another with autism or relating disability =(
rachael596 3 years ago
What makes you think I do it all day long? :-)
silentmiaow 3 years ago 13
YAY this was chocolate ice cream! flappy! 5 stars! I totally understand this on so many levels. Although I am verbal and "high functioning" I could never verbalize what I am able to think, feel, experience, or write. I understand the delight in smelling things etc... etc... on and on, rave rave! Why haven't I watched this before?
miasansom 3 years ago 15
Thank you so much for sharing.
highdesertmom 3 years ago 4
Anyway, my last comment may have been unclear. You did open my eyes to a new way of thinking. I just think the burden is on both sides to bridge communication gaps, not solely on the side of society at large.
marsman57 3 years ago 6
Interesting video. I do not see you as sub-human or anything of that nature, but I am uncertain that I see your language as a meaningful form of primary communication as it is non-standard even among those who are autistic. I mean, if I had spoke a language that only I knew, is it really a language?
Also, is it really the burden of society to have to learn the individual language of each autistic person in order to communicate with them?
marsman57 3 years ago 25
Thank you for sharing this! I know what you mean..
VJZANNE 3 years ago
nice video, I made also a few short movies, please check them if you want
Klarley 3 years ago
This is so touching, and a relavation. I have never been the type of person to make fun of or think people with disabilities as "bizarre", but I never thought about the things you've said in this video and it helps me understand things better, you are an amazing and couragious person for posting this.
Uskyld 3 years ago 10
This is beautiful. I'm so glad you made this.
watchitlugnuts 3 years ago 5
thank you thank you!
your perspective has made my day. I will think of this video for many years to come.
joelleppard 3 years ago 3
Thank you for this video. I teach a class of sensory autistic teens and always strive to understand their language and needs and hope that I have never considered my students to be any less of a person than anyone else.
But I'm a bit worried about the idea of deficits that has been talked about in these comments. I think that if there are differences, one cannot consider *either* side to have a deficit. We can only hope to build understanding from *both* sides. I hope to do my part in that.
Seinneann 3 years ago 2
It's so amazing that, although she could not learn her own language, she was able to create her own. This is one of the best examples of the progress of Autistic people I have ever seen.
StarfoxRoy1902 3 years ago
wow..
thank you for your courage.
cantatasacra 3 years ago 3
ROCK ON!
canuckspwn10909 3 years ago 2
Thankyou for sharing this with us-I wish you well.
lenniesam 3 years ago
personhood has been overvalued at the expense of intelligence, annihilating, slaughtering our finest impulses (to seek, discover, create, involve and evolve..be in love). read still life with woodpecker: for the subject of "Objecthood": the secret life of objects: a mental laxative to free humankinds mind from the occasional p
sychic constipation
pauperton 3 years ago 2
your eyes are beautiful
cemetarymama 3 years ago 3
Hunny you are beautiful and perfect just the way you are
SexySasha2000 3 years ago 5
theres just something wrong with her brain thats all theres no high answer why she does this
Horrorfilms666 3 years ago
Bravo!!We "normal" people move too fast through life to realize the importance of many methods of communications, outside of verbal. We put too much emphasis on what's stated as opposed to what the meaning and purpose of what's communicated. There would be more peace on this earth if all listened and felt, instead of spoken and assumed.
Thanks for your awesome insight. The brain is powerful and hopefully people will realize that all human life is precious, regardless of differences.
LavandaDolce 3 years ago 10
your point of view is so interesting.
i have to admit that you're right, in a certain way
have a good life :)
OpuceO 3 years ago
Very interesting. I do not think people who are 'different' should be treated 'differently' or unfairly because they are misunderstood? When it comes down to it though, we are all different.
knowingforever 3 years ago 2
At the beginning i found this video haunting and creepy,
but as i kept watching, i could actually almost understand you.. i found this video very beautiful.. it gave me great insights of autism...
I'm currently doing a project based on autism.
My objective is to destroy the misconceptions about autism. You are true evidence of all the wrong misconceptions. Just for your info, you gave me great inspiration for my school assignment :) Thank you!
xocholicious 3 years ago 5
Thank you for sharing. I think many nerotypical people can watch this and recognize something in it. The singing reminds me of monastic chanting, and the tactile experiences bring a similar kind of experience to mind. I am interested if that is the feeling you have at the time. It sparks alot of questions about equality and opportunity... The more that society creates mechanisms that enable every person to contribute their talents and gifts the better off we all will be...
saramorgaine 3 years ago 3
lots of influence...2 weird....
ronys72 3 years ago
I wish to see more videos from you.
saif95bd 3 years ago 3
This has been very helpful to further understand my brillian autistic son.
Thank you!
To Windtouzoku: Drop Dead!
FONature 3 years ago
Dear silentmiaow,
I'm writing a book on human nature and would like to include a transcription of part of your video. To whom would I write to obtain permission?
glcomstock2 3 years ago
Thank you for taking the time to learn that language enough to say this message...it is unfortunate that this message even needed to be made, but as it did and does (need to be said...in a language they will understand) thank you, thank you.
sustainablelove 3 years ago
This has been life changing for me, and helped me to understand my autistic son better. It is hard to understand and relate to at first, and to some it may sound nosey like the shamens, but once you settle down and relate to it, you can hear the oneness. Its music, its oneness. I think she is a kind lady, strong and truthful, and even though she doesn't behave in the way we expect, either do some tribesmen but there still human and living their life as they wish too. Thanks for this vid
Catherine8here 3 years ago
Thank you for letting your voice be heard. It is a scary turn of events when those with disabilities become invisible because they don't act in a way we perceive is normal. I hope that this video allows people to understand Autism beyond black and white. It certainly did for me..
Osmun79 3 years ago
Unfortunately, when people (scientists or general public) find somebody not understandable, they just label them as "strange", "deficient" or "inferior".
It happens to people with autism or other mental conditions, but also happens to another race (black, asian) or another species (dolphins).
We use our self-centered, over-simplified standard to judge other beings. After watching your video, i realize that how foolish and arrogant we are... Thank you!
chakazul 3 years ago 10
Unfortunately, when people (scientists or general public) find somebody not understandable, they just label them as "strange", "deficient" or "inferior".
It happens to people with autism or other mental conditions, but also happens to another race (black, asian) or even another species (dolphins).
We use our self-centered, over-simplified standard to judge other beings. After watching your video, i realize that how foolish and arrogant we are... Thank you!
chakazul 3 years ago
In all fairness, it is unusual to expect millions to learn one new language rather than one person learn a new language in order to communicate with each other.
LongcatRevolution 3 years ago
Comment removed
mickeymouse12678 3 years ago
I have pretty low autism, but haven't had a temper meltdown in a long while. My mom is always...I don't know...astonished when I say I smell something she does not even smell.
I used to have a habit of rocking back and forth. Whenever my mom would see me doing it, she just had to tell me to stop!
Sunzu49 3 years ago
I hope I am not making you feel like some kind of spectacle for me to study, rather I wish to gain insight in to a new world of interpretation and communication that I have never entered! Can you tell I am a musician? haha Truly, if you are in 'a world of your own' I would like nothing more than to come visit!! I hope all the attention you are receiving is not suffocating and that you keep expanding our minds!
Thanks,
Billy
cisum135 3 years ago
I am so glad to have seen your video and really want everyone to see it. I am so fascinated by your different levels of communicating and of thinking, but I also wonder which aspects of normal confused people, like myself, you share. Do you experience music similarly, or is your constant communication with your surroundings a form of music on its own? You mentioned that you can sing along with what is around you; I wonder if you can describe that any further. (to be continued!)
cisum135 3 years ago
Beyond words.
bringmeallofthem 3 years ago
So...define normal...
LibertyLizz99 3 years ago
Wow. I've never before thought in the way that you're saying in the end of your video. That it's also we who can verbally express words that are limited in our communication skills, if we can't speak your language. Thanks for giving me that insight!
I'm born with a disability myself and though I'm able to express myself in a language the rest of my world understand, I feel that people around me doesn't think highly of my intellect or thoughts.
I'm out of space here, so I just say THANK YOU!
svenjohan 3 years ago
Will You Be Making Any More Videos.?
ohwhatabutterfly 3 years ago
Have you stood by a storm drain sucking in torrents or stood by a culvert out of which water's roaring and been exhilarated so you don't leave? Some wait for Jesus but the autistic senses the divine often. Their hearts leap up though they lack the poetic: "My heart leaps up when I behold A rainbow in the sky.So was it when my life began;So is it now I am a man;So be it when I grow old,Or let me die!The Child is father of the Man;And I could wish my days to be Bound each to each by natural piety"
blueguntwo 3 years ago 4
I agree.
kawaiitoboe 3 years ago
wow, this is so touching. You are so strong!
ShadowMark22 3 years ago
You are singing some sort of African-ish music.
Lindylovsbatty 3 years ago
*Purrrrrr*purrrrrrr*purrrrrrr* ! ! ! !
Very intense. Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Never mind the negative Comments. Fuzzy intellectualism, is all those are.
Thanx for this. Made my day...
StaatlicherBetrieb 3 years ago
You Movie moved me, our whole House alot. Thank you soo much for sharing, it is so mind opening for us and makes so much sence with all expierence of live, nature, and the universe. Much Love from Kauai from the House of Bliss. You are real and yes your effort will help more and more to understand the whole. Thank you. Much Love! Enjoy your Bliss.
JupiterOnKauai 3 years ago
I understood you, even without the words.
You are beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
I'm afraid that soon, people who don't go along with the dominant language or thoughts will soon be extinguished. I don't want to live a life where I have to speak someone else's language and ignore my own. What can I do?
mylkoa 3 years ago
Many of us that were amazed by your video and who changed forever our political and social viewpoints because of your statement, would like to make any possible effort to understand and speak your language. Now that we have a common language through computers, is there any way that you could teach us more about the language itself beyond what we can already see in this video?
cabadie 3 years ago
you are definitely right that not all people communicate in the same way. I personally see all "inanimate" objects as beings, made by someone, for a specific purpose. Every person isn't made for a specific purpose in mind, so in my opinion, people are less important than the things that they craft. I have realized this today when I was doing play therapy with an autistic girl that I am helping to take care of. I think that you really need to keep going with this. My eyes have opened. Thank You.
virgdesign 3 years ago
Congratulations! You're a freak! =D
Hattusa 3 years ago
You aren't communicating shit. You're fiddling around with the crap in your room and making toneless noises. How can you even begin to claim that you're having a conversation, when you're not even establishing any sort of sense? You're like a homeless man screaming at parked cars and calling it a "debate".
iamahpook 3 years ago
I love you, thanks.
BR177 3 years ago
Wow. I truly learned something from this video. I'm going to watch all of your videos, silentmiaow, and forward them to friends. I have a nephew with Asperger's (sp?). Your video helps me understand a little better how he perceives the world and interacts with his environment. You are a terrific writer, even by the standards of a "native speaker." Please keep making videos. This is true art.
michaelrlevin 3 years ago
Wonderful video, but I have to ask: should thinking--any kind of thinking--equal personhood? Is that all there is to a person? Is that all that we should value and protect? It seems that your argument would lead to a marginalization of those things and people that cannot think.
comertod 3 years ago
wow. i am AMAZED...
just know that people like me support people like u =) this is definitely more than strong and more people should hear about this!!
differentANNA 3 years ago
thank you for this video...it understood.
bootywoo 3 years ago
I am so glad that somebody said all this. You so clearly articulated the things that have been bothering me for a while. I really enjoy your videos. They are very insightful. Please keep doing them.
MusicalAspie 3 years ago
i appreciate this video. however, 30,000 children die every day from a lack of basic necessities like food and water, while they actually exist in abundance. personally I am challenged to look at these issues as priorities. this in no way discounts your message, just a view on why I personally do not feel I can take up that struggle, other than in my own personal actions and conduct towards other autistic and cognitively disabled people.
1987devo 3 years ago
Amanda,
First of all, I'd like to state that I have been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, so don't think I'm an autie-basher. However, I disagree with the message you are sending in this video. We live in a society in which the standard form of communication, by and large, is verbal. Sure, this puts the LFA community at a disadvantage, and I'm glad you have a way to communicate in English. You go a bit too far by suggesting that verbally-communicating individuals adapt your form of (con't)
ellanda 3 years ago
Amanda,
First of all, I'd like to state that I have been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, so don't think I'm an autie-basher. However, I disagree with the message you are sending in this video. We live in a society in which the standard form of communication, by and large, is verbal. Sure, this puts the LFA community at a disadvantage, and I'm glad you have a way to communicate in English. You go a bit too far by suggesting that verbally-communicating individuals adapt your form of (con't)
ellanda 3 years ago
eh, i dont know what makes your language so great. as far as i can see all your doing is "interacting" and nothing more. In my language, i can communicate with millions, if not billions of other organisms. what can you do in your language? put your hand under running water? i can do that too
TonyAteJesus 3 years ago
"Presumptuous" is an odd word too. I presume you refer to the hypocrisy demonstrated if one applies the word to the thoughts or actions of another, since the act of calling something "presumptuous" is, in fact, an act of presumption; you presume to know the thoughts behind the words or actions of another.
I thank you for pointing this out. I hadn't considered that before.
Certainly, I have been presumptuous AND I may have completely misunderstood you. This is the word's usual connotation.
ScoeyBako 3 years ago
I found out only recently that I have Asperger's and I am still trying to figure out what this means for me and for my future. Your message planted in my mind the thought that maybe the way I am isn't 'wrong', that it might be okay to just be myself, not always trying to 'be like them'. This video brought me hope and gave me inspiration. It has opened up a new world for me--someplace I, as myself, may be able to really feel as though I belong.
sorazdark 3 years ago 5
your statement is more than strong. it is the possible start of a revolution. from a fellow non- person, just know i'm in.
lisaradavis 3 years ago 15
Umm, I'm not trying to be mean or anything but can someone explain what the hel this is and why eople are saying this is "amazing" and it changed their lives?
To me looks like some weird lady rubbing her face on boos and eating pens...
please enlighten me.
WindTouzoku 3 years ago
Are you saying this after you watched the entire video or did you just watch a piece of it and judge it from that?
MomofAlexus 3 years ago
WindTouzoku: Try looking at the feeling that each action would give. You can't tell me that you haven't rubbed your face on anything? never chewed on a pen etc? Never did anything you instinctually wanted to do? Clip challenges 'everyday thought of the majority' There really is no wrong or right. Only perceptions of what should be. To try not to judge or assume something to be 'wrong' as who is to say it is right? Hope this helps. Great you asked,not everyone would take the time to question. :)
splished 3 years ago
My sentiment exactly. Retards and autistic thought process aren't deep and profound. They are retards for god sake! Their mind are random and unable to hold a thought for more than 2 second. They aren't able to dwell into the the deeper meaning of life. These people who make this video are just showing us shit and telling us this is a work of art.
I'm glad to know not everyone are mindless sheep on youtube.
TriasTheBetrayer 3 years ago
you can conclude that she is weird, and like what Amanda herself is aware of, others think that she is a non-person and unthinking. but can a person like that type and express herself so eloquently and meaningfully? just remember that every one else is every bit of a human as you are. Amanda has just taught me that, and that's how this video has changed me . thank you Amanda =)
suansee 3 years ago
It's very difficult to explain, but what's going on here, is a person with autism is trying to explain why she behaves the way she does. She's basically saying that every movement she makes is a way of communicating with everything in her environment. It's amazing because she is successful in helping people without autism understand her point of view. You should read more about autism if you don't know much about it, then you'll learn how awesome this video is.
KoachKrab127 3 years ago
Do you have any idea what autism is? This woman has autism and this video is an experiment to show us what her life is like, how she hears and sees things in her world
Gilch30 3 years ago
She's conveying her emotions and thoughts in a way not accepted by human society, she's speaking in a language that is not known by us, so we outcast her, and people like her. She's not "weird lady rubbing her face on boos and eating pens..." As she says she speaks by interacting with her environment, which is all things, using all senses, hence "eating boos". This is amazing because you see the story from a different point of view, it gives you perspective on her life.
dacheat211 3 years ago
We tend to limit ourselves to the classic meaning of things:we taste food, and only food because we fail to see the practical purpose of other objects, the woman does not limit her communication with her environment under guide lines given by others, and that there are other forms of communication not less valid that ours....i hope this makes some sense....?
LittleStarShineMyr 3 years ago
I agree. I have an autistic son, alot of them have malabsorptions and copper overload. I reckon the behaviours are part of trying to keep yourself with it (stimulated), alot are alwasy stimmering (self stimulatory behaviour) brains are starved of nutrients. My son is improving on a casein/gluten free diet etc. Alot have leaky gut. SHALL WE ACCEPT HUMANS TO BE ALL LIKE THIS?! We should be understanding the chemical imbalance in children that head but, don't speak!
Catherine8here 3 years ago
it something called understanding i have autism too and yet i have no idea ether but whit i just figured it out it shows everyone bout her languge its sorta a suiritule video
neoyojo2 3 years ago
What you see as "some weird lady" is another person interacting with the world in a way that you do not understand - which is precisely the way the "weird lady" sees you. I would respectfully suggest that you spend some time with people on the Autism Spectrum; perhaps you will find some kind sympathy and understanding for people that are not as pedantic in their thoughts as you.
bsjcj3 3 years ago 2
The point is this woman has autism and she is trying to tell us what it is like, and to respect autistic people. Plus, a lot of people would not make a video of this, but she is willing to show us how she interacts with the world, no matter what people think of it.
MalfoyFemDom 3 years ago 4
At 3:14 there's an "Tanslation"(=explanation) of the previous part. I strongly suggest you watch it.
FieryWolfPrincess7 3 years ago
Are you serious or just kidding around? If you had a autistic person in your life, you would understand fully! My nephew is autistic, and has been since birth! He is extremely intelligent, just has no social skills that we could perceive. It is hard to get into his world as we do not understand him. After being told there is not much anyone can do but except the condition, we saw this video. We tried the voice synth. program and have made a breakthru in communication with him!
Bawittaba9 3 years ago 6
It shows a different way to see the world and that her actions have a meaning. It is like your language, to the outside it makes no sence, but in reality it has a maening, like her language.
GingerAutie 3 years ago
Thank you, Silentmiaow, for communicating this insightful information with us! You've confirmed what I've always felt . . . there is so much more to each one of us than meets the "general public's" eye. Please continue to share your world with us!
mauidelite 3 years ago
wow... Amanda, I have to say, you could make a really powerful documentary with the talent you have. I never really thought about how each sense is a key and each object a lock. You are amazing!
31337Haxor 3 years ago 8
I can see how this is a non-symbolic (ie this is a sign for that) language but is communicative. It is like music. Music is a wonderful form of communication - and this reminds me of what some call Noise or Improv/experimental music. Are you familiar? Artists like Keiji Haino, Merzbow, John Zorn, etc. They would have performances on YouTube.
kuroneko99 3 years ago
hi silent miaow,
can i ask yu a question?
something about your video strikes a chord of 'truth' within me.
As i communicate 'normally' but for example if i met yu would wish to communicate with yu in 'your' language i am wondering how i would do this? or do yu have to be a 'native speaker' in order to?
hope yu get what i m getting at.
23catz 3 years ago
Well it's not really a language.... a language is defined as communication with other people... I doubt you could adequately express your views on... say the current Tibetan political crisis to any other person. That's not to say it is not communication... but it is not a language.
JaymaBear 3 years ago
and your mind is clearly so limited that you can't possibly think that maybe it is YOU who are deficient in your communication skills. autism may be the next step on the evolutionary scale of humankind. we may not need spoken language" in the future, as many people are opening up to telepathic communication. this is a fact, not science fiction. it may be that she is so more far advanced than the rest of us, that WE are the ones who are left behind with our menial verbal skills.
queenvelvet 3 years ago
I do not agree. Why can't we be considered equal. Why does man always have to create an imbalance. We just need to respect everyones differences and THINK a bit more!!
Catherine8here 3 years ago 2
i agree 100% i actually was discussing that with one of my friends a while ago.
samloso 3 years ago
You are wrong. You mistake the concept of language in general with that of human spoken language.
Language is anything conveying a message, and the message can even be emotional only.
This is the definition according to linguistics.
AntonioTavanti 3 years ago 19
I did get her message. Can I call you subnormal according to my experience?
BR177 3 years ago
Oh, thank you for enlightening us.
There is no wrong or right in the world of definitions. Read and understand your Arnold Hau before releasing your whiny gibberish on the world...
StaatlicherBetrieb 3 years ago
What a beautiful picture you have painted here! My son was recently diagnosed with autism and this wonderfully composed film has made me reconsider everything we have been doing with him. I would say it has changed my perspective of ASD as a whole. In the early intervention program my son is in it feels as though we are forcing him to change because he dosen't speak,we never even considered that he already has his OWN language, and that WE are the ones that need to learn how to communicate....
sacredmama7 3 years ago
what a beutiful picture you have painted, it's a color I've never seen before! my sweet son was diagnosed with autism in october of 07 and this video will help me understand and appreciate him and his language for the rest of our lives. Thankyou for making it and sharing your story with the world! It's beautifully composed, and I think it will open alot of people hearts. I want so badly to understand my son, what can people do to learn your language and the languges of autism?
sacredmama7 3 years ago 2
Interesting vision of your perception and interaction with your surroundings. With all due respect, I believe calling this a "language" is far fetched and somewhat presumptuous. I can´t see how sensory perception can be considered a language as such as it´s defined. Furthermore, your "translation" should be called "explanation" as that would be a more sincere term to describe it. In a world where basic languages still do not provide understanding, a unique non-verbal "language" is a hard sell.
heathazed 3 years ago
Presumptuous is an extremely odd word to use.
silentmiaow 3 years ago
I agree, odd word. Breaking this video down to semantics (communication vs. language) is clearly missing the point. I believe silentmiaow is able to communicate with her surroundings on a higher, or at least, more profound level than any of us will ever know.
theScent14 3 years ago
Wow, you are so absolutely right. I have ADHD which, while it is very different from autism, still results in people misjudging me and treating me like my brain's defective or something, but it's not defective, just different. Thanks, this video really encouraged me to be myself and I hope that more people will treat you fairly and respect you for the wonderful person that you are.
punkgrl325 3 years ago 3
Wow, you are so absolutely right. I have ADHD which, while it is very different from autism, still results in people misjudging me and treating me like my brain's defective or something, but it's not defective, just different. Thanks, this video really encouraged me to be myself and I hope that more people will treat you fairly and respect you for the wonderful person that you are.
punkgrl325 3 years ago 2
mizmusiclorikeet 3 years ago 9
I used to be able to hide some of mine, now I can't, and I've figured eventually out how to not be ashamed that I can't, which is part of the message.
silentmiaow 3 years ago
your video and statements are exceptional
maltazor 3 years ago
Thanks, Amanda. I very much relate to these ways of connecting to the physical world. I am a vegan and an animal rights advocate. Being on the spectrum has taught me that the universe is of many minds and many beings. While we are beautifully diverse, we are all of the one universal source. Neurodiversity and a holistic approach towards all beings is the way forwards. Thank you again. -Crew
voyagersystem 3 years ago 2
I don't mean this to be a mock in any way, just a person to person connection on the same concept. Thank you for bringing more of our world to our world, it makes me happy and think about life a little better and differently. X) Keep it up babe.
-Jennifer Turner
str8juicy1 3 years ago
Yes, heard of it, and disturbingly enough been subject to a few impromptu Turing Tests who thought my communication device was some kind of trick. o_O
silentmiaow 3 years ago
Wow i never thought that there was a different kind of language in touching and intereacting with things around us. I always thought it was wrong of me to feel that when i did or to talk about it with people because they would find it weird or boring.I'm just a normal intelligent person but i like being in contact with my surroundings and objects as well.
-Jennifer Turner
str8juicy1 3 years ago 4
Silentmiaow. Tjis is my 6th time watching this video. Thanks for bridging the gap. I have an ADHD diagnosis with a lot of assorted 'impulsive' traits like fidgeting, tics and playing with stuff. This stuff has always had meaning to me but I nevertheless find myself repressing it because it is socially unacceptable, freakish etc...Your words bridge that gap of understanding so eloquently. Your video is liberating to watch. Thanks.
comandanteloof 3 years ago 5
By far the most compelling blog I have viewed.There is a beauty to your language which is difficult to describe yet so easy to see.Thank you for sharing.You have a beautiful mind.So understanding to a world that would hardly pause to understand you.You have taught me much about my own shortcomings and assumptions.Thank you again.
Keep hope alive.
jacksteinhoff 3 years ago 3
I have never posted a comment to a youtube video but I felt compelled to after watching your video and reading your article in Wired magazine. I appreciate the brilliance in your way of thinking and communication. Your video is highly effective in creating an understanding for your way of living. I am extremely grateful for that and I will carry that with me.
toolchest 3 years ago 3
I would give anything, ANYTHING in the world to speak the same language as my son. I'd go to school round the clock. I'd spend every last cent I had. I'd study until I fell asleep at my books. I just don't know HOW.
dubhtail 3 years ago 3
Hello Amanda,
At first I didn't understand your video at all and then I watched it for the second time two weeks later and now I get it and I am in tears :).
May God bless you always,
Blaine B.
novelist88 3 years ago 2
Watching this I am reminded of the world and communication of Contemporary Performance Art in a college with no grades and no majors. My ex wanted to break up with me because he couldn't understand why anyone would stand nude and think of all the ways one could interact with a jar of tic-tac mints. He called it "CHEATING " because I was nude. I get constant criticism from people who ask, "How do you get a degree without grades or majors? What do you do?" We get credit for learning your language.
priestesskasey 3 years ago 2
Thank you very much. That was a very powerful film.
FrankieGoesToHolland 3 years ago 4
thank you very much for posting this
FrankieGoesToHolland 3 years ago
Hi Amanda, I saw you on CNN today, a co-worker brought in the video and we all watched it together. I work in a classroom with 3 and 4 year old autistic children and we all were inspired by what you are saying. It sort of goes against what we were taught about autism and how we are supposed to try and teach the children to "look normal" to the rest of the society. Now we see autism in a new light. Thank you so much. If you have any advise for us, please let me know.
4acold1 3 years ago
Thank you very, very much Amanda, please continue educating us all! (proud parent of 3 autistic boys)
aretha47 3 years ago
Has FC been used to create this message?
dougcanada 3 years ago
No.
silentmiaow 3 years ago
Thank you, thank you, Amanda. I read the article in Wired magazine and then saw your videos. My daughter is autistic, and what they would call 'high-functioning.' I love the way she thinks even though it's a deficit on MY end for not always understanding.
Thank you for helping me be a better mother and a better person.
toasterrodeo 3 years ago 2
I hope my comment gets posted this time. I recently got interested in the lost Solfeggio scale and the miracle (MI) frequency 528 HZ and I thought I heard he was singing that! I never thought autism is a disease. It's a gift to all of us in many ways...
niemand2099 3 years ago
I doubt I have perfect pitch but I think the singing in this clip is from the Solfeggio Scale - specifically the 528 Hz frequency. I always thought autistic children came here with a special gift and not a dis-ease.
niemand2099 3 years ago
we do not understand your "language." Before you were able to communicate to us via typing, did you wish you could communicate with us non-auties? Is it "lonely" interacting with the environment but not other people? Can you understand the body language of other auties, and communicate non-verbally with them?
Sorry for so many questions but you've opened up a whole new world to me! Thanks so much, looking forward to (hopefully!) hearing from you.
Bostondawgz
bostondawgz 3 years ago
I could speak for awhile (I have a movement disorder associated with autism that has made the speech I did gain impossible now), but a lot of it was not communicative (nor was a lot of my typing, I had a lot of disconnects with language in general to work through), and yes it got lonely when that was the case sometimes.
silentmiaow 3 years ago
(Continued above) For instance, I would have no idea how to communicate meaningfully to you if we did not type back and forth. I would not understand your gestures. You say that you are interacting with your environment - it seems like a different concept than what I have when I communicate. I would love to understand more about it.
Obviously you are interested in communicating with people, since you blog. We non-auties would not understand that you are, without your typing, again because
bostondawgz 3 years ago
Amanda, I am fascinated by you. I am studying to become a special needs teacher and came across an article on you, and then, of course, your Youtube video.
There is so many things I would like to ask you, if you would be interested in answering.
I think that the reason that people have wrongly assumed that people like yourself are "retarded" is because we had no "language" with which to speak to people like you prior to now. (Continued below)
bostondawgz 3 years ago
Beautiful and profound. You expressed so clearly everything that I only felt and could not relate to others about my brother who has Down syndrome and about us as humans unable to understand so many things, yet thinking we are somehow the pinnacle of creation. Thank you for your video and your statement. It is much needed.
dankaness 3 years ago
I've tried to look at all or part of all your videos. NOT ONCE have I seen you typing with a monitor showing the words being placed on a screen. How can any of what you "write" be considered valid if you can't even post a video showing you typing and the words showing up on a screen. - It's not enough to show your fingers at a keyboard moving. With all the videos you have, it doesn't seem to ask to much to show this happening.
kbrorson 3 years ago
Good grief, do people who narrate their videos offscreen have to prove they're really the narrators?
When I made this video, I had one dinky little digital camera that recorded 1.5 minutes at a time and had no tripod mount. I had to set it where I could. That meant bad angles sometimes.
I've been interviewed by CNN and Wired. CNN showed me touch-typing. Is that good enough for you, or do you think my communication devices come programmed with long intelligent answers to new questions?
silentmiaow 3 years ago
I found this so beautiful and calming. I do all of the things in this video on a regular basis and it is so wonderful to have someone who understands and doesn't think I'm a "freak."
ReiYuriko 3 years ago
I read your article in WIRED and had to check out your movies.
Thanks for sharing.
EnnEyeSeaKay 3 years ago
(^)[ rest of post above]
what I think about people and things without
judging whether or not it is tactful. many people consider this unkind, but I see it as more rude to hide what people think about things. To me, that's lying. So I say what I mean.
I won't deny I do not understand your language, but I understand that you are a human like me.
Thank you for teaching us.
zolo65 3 years ago
I like this video. I think that the different types of intelligence are very interesting. My friend's sister is autistic and she has certain skills and observations I would not have made. She is a skilled camerawoman for a channel on this website.
I beleive I read something on how some people learn best by reacting to their environment. Is that like you?
I have had a much toned down but similar reaction from people I know from the way I act. I am a very direct and blunt person, and say(V)
zolo65 3 years ago
Thank you for that video. Your point is very clear and powerful. I wonder if a "private language" might be practiced by everyone between short bursts of communication. ? What do you think?
concoction49 3 years ago
I loved this video. I have Asperger's Syndrome, which is considered a "higher functioning" form of Autism. While I don't speak your native language, I do think much differently than "normal" people. I was ridiculed growing up because I "acted weird" and was unable to socially interact "normally." Thank you for making this video. Hopefully one day people will stop looking at Autism as a disability, and no longer judge us as inferior beings.
toolna 3 years ago
i watched this today with my whole entire class it was really cool that autistic people cannot be under estimated i heard u made this all by yourself thats really cool
good jobb AMANDA :)
fp626 3 years ago
im sorry but...why the hell did u make this video??? it was kinda pointless..
dawgsays387 3 years ago
And 640,000 views proves that does it?
BenedictC 3 years ago
Amanda is proof that autistic people have so much to offer us as a people, and society in understanding how we have in the past silenced others, in doing so, limiting there unlimited potential and growth with poor judgement and bias.
Issac3021 3 years ago
A step in the right direction for preventing others from developing autism would be to remove Thimerosol from children's vaccines, the leading cause of autism.
Be that as it may, that still doesn't change the fact that you miss, are truly a inspiration to everyone.
I suggest everyone watch this video linking autism to vaccines; youtube(dot)com/watch?v=4zJrkPJXAh0
Please, the least everyone can do is research these claims.
CitizenPeter 3 years ago
Language involves a sender sending a message and a recipient who is able to interpret the message and respond back. Language is a "two-way street". This is true from humans down to insects
Interaction with the environment involves only one element(i.e. flows in only one direction). While the video may make a valid statement about self-reflection and individual interpretation, the author's premise that this constitutes a "language" is simply not valid.
KEngel1021 3 years ago 2
So objects don't react back to what's around them?
silentmiaow 3 years ago
Any object will react with the application of some kind of energy(whether it be heat, kinetic, etc). Results don't necessarily equal "language".
Example--When I turn on my lava lamp and watch the wax melt, the lamp is simply responding to the heat from the light bulb. No one would seriously believe that the lava lamp is trying to communicate with me.
While well-intended, your theme about "language" collapses under careful scrutiny.
KEngel1021 3 years ago
I guess the reason why many people don't consider the manner in which people with autism communicate language is because everyone grows up being told what everything is, and everyone else agrees on what everything is, and when they see people like you, they think of it as a disability. It is similar to the fact that 500 years ago when the spanish came to America for the first time, they considered the natives as "disabled" since they did not have modern technology or speak the same language.
DeathHoldGrip 3 years ago
I also have autism i know hot it feels love. I would be your friend m8.
Megatronmrs 3 years ago
Thank you so much for making and posting this! I volunteered breifly at a therapy center for special needs children and I was always taught that "steming" was bad and that I should stop it immediately but this video has completely changed my outlook. You have succesfully and beautifully "translated" this concept into a form that non-autistic persons can understand. I'm going to send this to my mom and her boss, who work with autistic persons.
regnidde 3 years ago
you're amazing period!
smencia 3 years ago
Now That was Interesting
SamRubinPictures 3 years ago
This video is simply amazing, thank you so much for posting it.
kentukydoctor 3 years ago
This video is simply amazing, thank you so much for posting it.
kentukydoctor 3 years ago
Thank you so much, for this.
Parijata21 3 years ago
thank you for your gift of insight. As we are all individuals with unique gifts of personality, it is in part what makes our world the beautiful place that it is. Hopefully, there will be a day that we all appreciate this fact and rejoice in it. Until then, individuals like yourself, help in the journey. May God Bless...hugs
shaci99 3 years ago
Beautiful!
mahmoud8ahmadinejad 3 years ago
but it is a bright idea to connect, rather than react, to one's surroundings. I think this piece is absolutely genius. Good work.
koloktin 3 years ago
Wow, just amazing. Thank you for this glimpse into your mind and language. I'm not autistic but have always been "different", and experienced the world in my own way. Thankfully I've had the ability to interact with people in the "expected" way, and to incorporate the other ways I view the world into my art, writings and philosophies on life. Simply amazing, thank you again.
soulcoredotnet 3 years ago
Certain things you do remind me of how I used to play as a child. I used to believe that very high certain pitches would move the clouds in the sky and bring out the sunlight. Imitation is a major part of "our" language. I think that anyone with intuition and compassion can key into the beauty of your poetry. Language is poetry. We just get used to hearing one type I guess. What do you think? Please let me know what you think of my song...
krausetrax 3 years ago
its sad how you right a whole comment page about you
pol1shnightmare 3 years ago
Wow you are very smart.
Kelli610alden 3 years ago
dear rollingalong, i think you miss my point entirely, but since you are not the only one, the problem would appear to be in the words i chose rather than your perception of them. what is it that you understood me to be saying? i did write privately to amanda doing my best to clarify. however, given that no date has appeared in the "date read" column, i don't think she has read my message. not much i can do about that. i would post it publicly but kinda wanted her feedback first.
janedoh3 3 years ago
i read your article in WIRED and it really made me feel guilty for following the popular mindset of autism as a form of schizophrenia. But I really love what you said about having a constant conversation with your surroundings. in fact, i'm kind of jealous! I admire you greatly, and am highly appreciative for your insight into a different view on reality and thoughts as a whole. I look forward to learning more about this offshoot from the (boring) "norm".
skaskowski 3 years ago
funny as fuck
NoobHunterProduction 3 years ago
I don't think my previous comment got through, I've been commenting on others. If it has, sorry for the repeat.
I'm in grade 9, I'm neurotypical, as you would call it, and we watched the CNN interview in Socials class. To say the least, I was amazed. Your intellegence is an eye-opener to me, I knew very little about autism. Your optimism should be an example for everybody.
In conclusion: wow. Just wow.
zepzep2 3 years ago
In socials class we watched a report on CNN where they interviewed you. Before it I knew nothing about autism and I had never heard of you. When I saw all of this I was utterly amazing. Seeing this makes the world seem more... welcoming. Your optimism should be an example for us. I love the video, perfect rating. :)
zepzep2 3 years ago
You should not waste water the way you do...
breaguy 3 years ago