Sometimes It’s OK To Laugh Out Loud With Autism

On a day-to-day basis, life with autism is typically anything but funny. And then there are those moments that remind us to stop, breathe, and laugh. Sometimes, life with autism can be quite amusing. I was reminded of this just recently..

Like most, I scroll through my phone multiple times a day. I check email, texts, FB, and TikTok. I’ve joined several groups on FB looking for support to give and receive, and to stay informed outside of my own experience bubble. But invariably, the search spies notice my likes and start to send suggestions my way. Last week, Facebook decided there was someone I needed to meet, and they sent me a gem- Dan Lamorte

For those who have never heard the name, Dan describes himself as a stand up comedian, on stage and on the spectrum. My first encounter was a video on his FB feed entitled Autism Levels. After watching it, I was hooked. Yes, he’s a comedian, so humor is at the forefront. But it is so much more than just finding humor in life as an autistic. There’s a raw honesty intermingled with insights and compassion. While at times he’s self-deprecating, it’s not done to belittle anyone on the spectrum. By the same token, he also recognizes neurotypicals and our obvious prejudice at times to the stereotypes of the spectrum.  All the while making us laugh yet challenging us to think, both in and outside the box. Such a refreshing take for us all.

Dan is now my daily dose of humor and food for thought. While I’m well aware there are other autistic comedians, something about Dan really resonates with me. He’s coming to Florida next month, so my hope is to get to Fort Lauderdale to see him live. To thank him for his courage, his humor, and his compassion. But also for tickling my funny bone in ways I had never imagined. It’s wonderful seeing someone on the spectrum overcoming challenges and embracing life, looking beyond boundaries, and empowering others to do the same. Dan isn’t about perfection; he’s about progress. In a world so caught up in appearances, perfection, and unrealistic expectations, it’s refreshing to witness someone who isn’t.

As the parent of an autistic for 30 years, it goes without saying that it’s a role I’ve taken very seriously. Then out of the blue comes the opportunity to look at the humor through the lens of a person who knows full well this journey. If Dan can find amusement and parody along the way, perhaps he’s showing us a path we all need to embrace.

Life is funny sometimes, and so is life with autism. Thanks, Dan, for reminding me it’s OK to embrace the humor and laugh along the way.