Autism is a language/communication disorder with many variations, degrees of expression, and outcomes. There are frequent excellent posts on OS regarding autism.  Keying in the word "autism" in the Search function above yielded 925 results. 

This is one young man's high school graduation story as chronicled several days ago by Diane Sawyer on the ABC  World News. It was posted previously by momlogic and did not seem to receive any attention.  I have taken the liberty of linking momlogic  and paraphrasing the ABC story for OS readers who may not have seen it.

It is not only inspirational; but, is a testimony to the understanding, acceptance, love, and friendliness of his high school classmates. It is also fitting for a GNS Sunday post.

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Eric Duquette, age 18, is the salutatorian of his high school. He is an honor student, speaks English and Spanish fluently, is a musician, and he has autism. He's a member of the Spanish National Honor Society and placed 93rd in the nation on the Spanish V exam.

Duquette, who couldn't say a word until age five, gave the commencement speech at his high school graduation ceremony Tuesday night in Smithfield, Rhode Island.

"My parents were told I would most likely end up in an institution," said Duquette. "I stand before you accepted into every institution of higher learning I applied to." He later joked about “them” being right when his parents were told he would end up in an institution one day.

He stood at the podium wearing a green cap and gown and a big grin on his face. His speech, funny and touching, was met with enthusiastic applause from his peers.

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Duquette graduated from Smithfield High School with the second-highest grade point average in a class of just under 200 students. He will attend Rhode Island College in the fall, with plans to study biology and eventually become a pharmacist. He was diagnosed with autism at a young age and he had serious language and communication problems.

"Tonight is all about reflection and looking forward to the journeys that lie ahead of us," he said. Listing his scholarships and college acceptances he's received, Duquette said that he hoped to inspire his fellow students.

"I tell you this so you do not allow yourself or others to be defined by your limitations but rather abilities. Never underestimate yourself," he said.