There is so much about autism that most of us simply do not understand. Autistic people are constantly challenging our assumptions about who they are and what they can accomplish. While it may be common to focus on how autism affects the daily life and social interactions of an individual diagnosed as “autistic,” autistic persons want us to know that this focus often shortchanges their abilities. People with autism have many unique skills and abilities which, sadly, get overlooked in the misperceptions.
Folks who frequent the Moss Bluff Farmer’s Market have undoubtedly taken notice of one young man who is singlehandedly changing perceptions. Stephen Kiser’s journey started with one simple goal: to raise money for a vacation. Stephen wanted to take a train ride. However, it is the ride he has been on since accomplishing that initial goal that has been changing lives for those who know him and who embrace his contagious enthusiasm for life.
Linda Fontenot, a committee member for the market, says, “Stephen started at Moss Bluff Farmer’s Market around 4 to 5 years ago to raise money for his dream vacation. He’s been a regular ever since. He sets up his own booth each week. With the money he’s made, he’s bought a building, paid for electricity to the building, paved the driveway, remodeled the bathroom and so much more. He’s always smiling at all our vendors and customers. He announces prayer time each week at the market. He encourages us each week at prayer time to sell, sell, sell! He will also come around each week to remind me that I need to take more pictures to post on Facebook. I couldn’t start my Saturday morning without Stephen’s hugs. We consider Stephen our busy and happy bee!”
Research supports the idea that people with autism can be gifted in various ways and may be more intelligent than people without autism in some ways.
everyone. He has recently been handing out Bumblebee stickers and balloons to the kids to remind them to have a happy day. His artwork makes everyone smile, and his personality is so happy. We are proud that he doesn’t let his autism limit his spreading joy and living a full life. He always says he could teach all with ‘limitations’ to just push hard to be the best they can be. He has used the money from his Bumblebee sales to buy two golf carts, remodel his bathroom to the way he likes it, and buy a shed that he uses as a workshop. He even helps in my appliance delivery business. He is just an all-around great guy.”
“He always wants to make sure that he is providing a happy experience to everyone. He has recently been handing out Bumblebee stickers and balloons to the kids to remind them to have a happy day. His artwork makes everyone smile, and his personality is so happy. We are proud that he doesn’t let his autism limit his spreading joy and living a full life.”— Stephen’s dad, Craig Kiser
Angelsense.com also points out that “…many researchers believe that it’s because of autism’s impact on the brain that people with the condition have the ability to remain focused and notice even the tiniest of details. Individuals with autism tend to enjoy detail-orientated work and are able to work persistently without getting distracted.”
Further, studies demonstrate that overall, autistic individuals tend to not be deceptive, are non-judgmental, and make loyal and reliable employees. Many also possess impressive math skills, demonstrate good motor perception, and have better long-term memory recall than many of us.
Ask anyone, vendor or shopper, at the Moss Bluff Farmer’s Market about the “happy worker bee” named Stephen, and they will agree this is a young man who is on a path to success, one that he created, and apparently paved, himself.
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