Different, But Not Less

Today I want to tell you about a wonderful movie that I recently saw: Temple Grandin, which was an HBO production that is now out on DVD.

You may have heard of Grandin, who is the author of books that include Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals and The Way I See It: A Personal Look at Autism and Asperger’s. I had read both of these books and found them very intriguing, in part because several of our friends are raising children who have conditions on the autism spectrum. As an autistic person, Grandin has a perspective and abilities that are at times astonishing. In particular, she has an uncanny ability to sense how animals experience the world. Thanks to her research and advocacy, the raising of livestock has been made more humane and less stressful. In particular, she has revolutionized the design of slaughterhouses across the country.

OK–if you’re a vegetarian, you’re probably not going to like this movie. But Grandin’s work grows out of her genuine love for animals. If people are going to eat meat (as most do), then we have an obligation to see that we raise them—and kill them—in a humane way. 

Claire Danes does a remarkable job of conveying the challenges of Grandin’s life and her unique interpersonal style. Like many autistic children, Grandin suffered great trials as she tried to find her way in a bewilderingly complex world. She was fortunate to have a loving family and a supportive teacher in high school who recognized her potential, but her success is primarily due to her own determination, creativity, and sheer guts.

In the memorable phrase Grandin uses in the movie, “people with autism are different, but not less.”

The film moved me to tears and gave me a new perspective on autism and the ability of humans to grow beyond and through pain. In a quiet, understated way, it is a deeply spiritual film. I highly recommend it.