About Pillars

“Autism does not define a person. Artists with autism are like anyone else: they define themselves through hard work and individuality.”

-Adrienne Bailon

I have always been fascinated by children. They never cease to amaze me with their imagination, their innocence, their aspirations, their energy, and, their positivity. I feel that teenagers and adults can learn a lot from children, especially when the former tend to complicate things in their heads because they start listening to the voices around them, telling them all the reasons as to why they could never achieve anything in their life.

On Friday, May 31, 2019, I learned something. Something that completely changed the way I look at children. Regardless of whatever situation they are born in, never tell a child that what they aspire to is impossible.

On Friday, May 31, I learned something else as well. I learned the importance of something I used to take for granted. I knew that it was important in a young man’s life, but I never thought it would be important, to the point that it could alter one’s life. It is not something rare;  something that only the rich can benefit of, but rather something the true power of which we ignore.

No, I am not talking about faith. No, I am not talking about God. No, I am not talking about money. I am talking about issues more fundamental, rooted in the core of every single human. Something that can make anyone achieve anything they ever wanted, just because they dream of achieving something in their life. Something that surpasses all difficulties and handicaps, whether they are physical or mental.

On May 31, 2019, I watched Kodie Lee, a blind and autistic kid, receive a standing ovation for his outstanding performance on America’s Got Talent.

I have been told that music can change lives in ways that no one could ever imagine. I would say the same every time I pick up my guitar and start jamming. Throughout history, writers, actors, singers and musicians have expressed their true love and passion for this specific art: one which knows no boundaries and reaches all humans, regardless of the senses they are deprived from. Even if the person is deaf, by feeling the vibrations of the vocal chords or of the beats, they can still enjoy this beautiful gift from the universe.

Seeing Kodie Lee perform on stage like someone who has been doing this for more than 10 years of their life, despite his physical situation,sheds light on the source of power that made him overcome his difficulties.

Sure, it is easy to say that music saved his life, but in my opinion, without the right support and love from his parents and siblings, Kodie Lee would have never dared pursue his love for music, to the point of performing on stage; his autism alone would have stopped him from doing so. I can only imagine how much of a struggle it must be to be blind as well. This reminds me of the soundtrack of the movie Lady and The Tramp 2:

“What is a family? Caring and devoting hearts
With endless love to share
Love that will follow you everywhere
[…]
Always there to help on your way”.

Here is my conclusion:

On Friday, May 31, 2019, I learned something:

I learned to never tell a child what they can and cannot do. Children will  surprise – no, wait – will amaze, when they are given the power of music, family support and love.