Devotions

​ A Search for Sanctuary ​As I move through another week of my Gateway Award, my mind is turning toward the upcoming season of Lent that starts 18 February. Traditionally, it's a time of "giving things up," but I’m considering a different approach this year. Instead of the usual fasts, I am thinking about giving up the exhausting attempt to force my faith into a neurotypical frame of reference. ​For too long, I have tried to worship in ways that didn't fit my nervous system—navigating "sensory gauntlets" and the quiet judgment of the traditional pew. I want to explore what it means to trade that "mask" for a more authentic way of being. ​ Expanding the Search ​As an extension of my search for an ASN-friendly ministry, I’ve recently connected with Autism Consecrated . They’ve introduced me to the life of St. Thorlak of Iceland and resources designed specifically for the autistic soul. ​I’m currently looking into the Scriptural Stati...

It is time for family. It is time to trade the exhaustion of "making do" for the radical act of self-advocacy. ​For a neurodivergent family carrying the weight of autism and NF1, the traditional pew has often felt more like a sensory gauntlet than a refuge. I’ve realized that seeking Additional Support Needs (ASN) isn't about force-fitting our "square peg" family into a round-hole sanctuary. It is a theological act of pioneering. ​ A New Liturgy ​As a father and carer, I am reclaiming a fundamental truth: the table of fellowship is just as sacred in a quiet living room or an adapted setting as it is in a stone church. We aren't looking for a place to just "sit"—we are inviting the church into a "Thin Place" where our neurobiology is recognized as a reflection of the Creator, not a distraction. ​ Advocacy in Action ​Building this sanctuary also requires a louder voice. Alongside our church search, I am currently fighting for the scho...

​If you’ve seen my recent posts about the Mencap Gateway Award, you might be wondering: What is the purpose behind all of this? Why turn my quiet, daily rhythms into a six-month "official" project? ​The truth is, life as an autistic person can often feel like you’re drifting in a sea of other people’s expectations. The "Sanctuary" I talk about isn't just a place—it's a practice. I’m doing the Gateway Award because it gives that practice a backbone. It’s about intentionality over accident. ​ The Purpose Behind the Plan ​ 1. Building My "Sanctuary" The award gives me a reason to stick to the rhythms that actually make me feel good. Without this commitment, it would be easy to skip my Finch goals or the Northumbria Office prayer when I’m tired. This turns my self-care into "official progress," helping me stay grounded when life feels overwhelming. ​ 2. Proven Independence (The Folder Effect) By working directly with Mencap and manag...

This week marks the beginning of a six-month journey as I work toward my Bronze Gateway Award. I’ve decided to frame this experience as a 'Sanctuary'—a dedicated time to build a rhythm of health, service, and reflection. ​Over the next 26 weeks, I am committing to a balanced path: supporting my Health and Well-being through the Northumbria Office and the Finch app, and challenging myself to build Self-awareness and connection at the Dad & Me group with Midlothian Sure Start. My days will include mindful nature walks for fitness and the creative outlet of this blog. Most importantly, I’ll be spending my volunteering time planning and completing my  Walk for Autism . This journey isn’t just about ticking boxes for a medal; it’s about intentionally creating a consistent, peaceful routine that supports my autistic profile while giving back to the community. I look forward to sharing the quiet milestones and the steady progress of this path as it unfolds.