Julian says hi

We celebrate the small things in life. Like yesterday. Young Julian said “Hi” to me and then executed a perfect traditional Filipino greeting called the Mano. The Mano is when one slightly bows to one's elder as they take the elder's opposing hand and respectfully place it to one's own forehead.

Julian has autism. His small achievement may seem unimportant to some, but it filled my heart with joy. “Hi” was the first word I had ever heard him speak. I smiled all afternoon and took a dozen more pictures of this wonderful child. 

Technorati tags: Autism, Photography, Filipino Culture