So, I went to see a psychologist to do some testing for Aspergers Syndrome. I've met with him three times, twice with Daniel. After answering a lot of questions, I found out:
Yes, I do have Aspergers Sydrome, a form of autism.
I have lots of mixed feelings. On the one hand, I have a sense of relief. After years of wondering why in the world I just couldn't "get" what others were getting, why I had such a hard time keeping jobs, or why working in the church has been such a disaster at times, I finally know why: my brain is wired way differently than most people. As my dear Daniel said, I now have a key that can help answer some questions.
The other part of me wonders what to do now. Can I still be an effective pastor?
I will be meeting with the psychologist for a few more times to now deal with the diagnosis and go from there. The good thing is I now know my weirdness has a name.
I'm not an idiot, just autistic. :)
2 comments:
Well, congrats on having a name for your symptoms. I wouldn't think that alone would prevent you from ministering in a pastoral role.
I know several people with Aspergers. Most likely, it does present you with some challenges for ministry. At the same time, people with Aspergers (like everyone else) also have wonderful gifts FOR ministry.
Don't forget, you were called into ministry.
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