Why I am Only MOSTLY Sane

per·sev·er·a·tion Pronunciation Key (pr-sv-rshn)n.

1. Uncontrollable repetition of a particular response, such as a word, phrase, or gesture, despite the absence or cessation of a stimulus, usually caused by brain injury or other organic disorder. 2. The tendency to continue or repeat an act or activity after the cessation of the original stimulus.

2. The act or an instance of persevering; perseverance.

3. MY SON

Let me back up...

My son is said to have autism. I won't debate it, he is definitely somewhere on the Spectrum. He has many behaviors, some to a lesser degree than might be expected in autism. Normally, we deal with it. But, when he gets something in his head, he never gives in. Once he wants to do something, he just keeps asking. He is like the Energizer Bunny. And he makes me want to dig out my brain with a can opener. Consider this exchange tonight:

"Mommy, may I play my Gameboy?" (answer was no)

[5 minutes later]

"Mommy, may I play my Gameboy?"

"No.." (followed by an explanation)

[5 minutes later]

"Mommy, may I play my Gameboy?"

(answer was no, with the addition of please don't ask again)

[5 minutes later]

"Mommy, may I play my Gameboy?"

(answer was no, with the addition of please don't ask again)

[5 minutes later]

"Mommy, may I play my Gameboy?"

(answer was no, with the addition of please don't ask again)

Finally after HOURS of this, I said to him in exasperation:

"If you ask me ONE more time about the Gameboy, you are going to bed!"

Complete silence. Then, and I KID YOU NOT:

"Can I play my Gameboy in bed?"

T, who often feels as though I have been hit by a hammer

Technorati: Kids, Autism,Asperger's Syndrome