Discussed nature of mental health work, autism, seeing people as wholes rather than parts, and learning to experience life through different understandings of social influence. Jeff comes to us as a friend and colleague, working as a peer counselor primarily working with those on the autistic spectrum, though as well with people dealing with trauma. Jeff grew up in the south of Louisiana and considers himself a cajun, though is a transplant to the pacific northwest of Washington. We explore the sociocultural change from where he grew up to where he is now, as well as how being autistic has been both a help and hindrance in navigating those differences.
Links for Jeff:
Email: jeff.fullington@gmail.com
Dissent and Doubt as a Way to Work with Change
Doubt and “no” are symbolic expressions of people finding their space and role in the future. It is when we fully understand what people do not want that choice becomes possible. Dissent in this way is life giving, or life affirming. It is the refusal to live the life someone else has in mind for us. For individuals, it is the moment when we acknowledge that we are not the children our parents, guardians, teachers had in mind for us. We have disappointed others and for too long internalized that disappointment. The moment we say no to the expectations of others about who they wish us to be, the moment we declare, “I am not that person; I am not the son or daughter you had in mind,” our adulthood begins. Just because it took thirty or forty years, this is no time to get picky.
Peter Block, “Community“