One of the things I have learned since my diagnosis is that I really have a hard time connecting with people. I don't mean to say that I'm friendless, but it's a lot harder for me to meet people than it is for others.
Our congregation is trying to encourage people to start sharing their faith in non-coercive ways. I think it's a great idea and I've seen how the Senior Pastor has been able to talk and share his life with others.
But I sit somewhat amazed at how he does it. I mean, I've tried to invite people to church events, but I feel at times like Data from Star Trek: I might understand the mechanics of something, but not it's essence.
My aspie way of evangelism is sending someone a Facebook event invite. Something tells me that while that's one way of inviting people to church, it is not the most effective way.
The fact of the matter is, I don't know how to invite someone to church because I am lost in inviting people, period. I think that's why the church start that I was a part of failed so badly: I had no idea how to build those relationships that one needs. Oh, I would ask people, but I don't think it had that same "magic" that it has when it comes from someone that isn't autistic.
It's funny- I feel God has called me to be at this place, to help this church grow spiritually and be able to share their faith lives with friends and neighbors and yet I have a big issue in how to actually share my life, something that I have a hard time doing. God really does work in mysterious ways.
I feel at times like a cat trying to make my way in a dog world. Dogs are social animals and love to be with other dogs ( I guess that's what the butt-sniffing is all about). But cats tend to be solitary and don't understand what's up with those crazy dogs.
I wish there was a cat way to be social, a feline way of evangelism.
Let's see what God has to say.
1 comment:
Dennis ~ sometimes I think it is easier for those of us who do not work right in the church to practice feline evangelism. We can go about our lives among other teachers, lawyers, retailers, whomever and be in a way that moves them to ask questions or just notice that we are always in choir on Thursday evenings - or whatever. Keep searching. You will find a way I am sure. You have my prayers and blessings ~
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