03/06/2026
Around ten years ago, I wrote an article entitled “Understanding Individualism”. It centred on coaching Jiu Jitsu for children on the ASD spectrum. I posted it with pride because my youngest son had just received his first belt - on 02 November 2016.
That grey and white belt took him four years to achieve, others in his group got there much quicker - they don’t train anymore.
He’s been on the Jiu Jitsu mats now for around 13 years, he’s bigger, stronger and more focused than I’ve ever seen him, and last night, I promoted him to blue belt.
I’m not totally sure how I managed to keep it together last night, but I did.
Well done Stanley. I am so proud of you.
I love you so much 💙