Learning about Indigenous views of autism opened the door to accepting myself

Embracing My Indigenous Gift: A Journey of Self-Discovery

As a Cree filmmaker and storyteller based in Prince Albert, Sask., I have always felt a deep connection to my Indigenous roots. Growing up on the Kitsaki reserve as a sensitive and different-thinking child, I often felt isolated and misunderstood. It wasn’t until later in life that I discovered the true gift of my uniqueness.

I used to think I was broken. My autism made me hypersensitive to the world around me, leading me to feel overwhelmed in noisy environments and struggling to understand the emotional outbursts of those around me. I longed to escape into nature, where I felt a deep connection to the animals and wildlife.

In Cree culture, there is a word for people like me: pîtoteyihtam, which translates to “he/she thinks differently.” This perspective on autism as a gift rather than a disability resonated with me deeply. I began to see my sensitivity and unique way of thinking as strengths rather than weaknesses.

After being diagnosed with ADHD at 29 and later with Level 2 autism, I finally found the validation I had been seeking. It was a bittersweet realization, as I came to terms with the fact that autism couldn’t be “fixed.” But through my research into Indigenous perspectives on autism and the concept of pîtoteyihtam, I began to embrace my identity as a gifted individual.

Nature became my sanctuary, a place where I could recharge and find peace amidst the chaos of the world. I found solace in the trees, the animals, and the ancient wisdom that surrounded me. Walking in the woods with my dog, I felt a special connection to the wildlife, as if they could understand me in a way that others couldn’t.

Embracing my sensitivity and my connection to nature has been a transformative experience. I no longer feel alone or broken. I am proud to think differently and to see the world through a wider lens than others. My mind is a beautiful and unique gift, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story with others.

Through my journey of self-discovery, I have found a sense of belonging and acceptance that I never knew was possible. I am no longer afraid to be who I truly am – pîtoteyihtam, a person who thinks differently and sees the world in a special way.