Ten journeys and your Ikigai

A couple of weeks ago, I was chatting with an influencer who hosts a podcast on relationships and marriage. She asked me a few big questions:
Why are you doing this newsletter? Why do you want to keep learning? Why focus on autism?

All great questions.

About a year ago, I was asked to serve in my church community as a disability specialist. I’m not a professional in the field, but I said yes with a willing heart and a desire to learn. It’s a beautiful journey—learning how to support individuals impacted by disabilities so they can feel welcome, worship comfortably, and have needed accommodations at church. Through my church service, I began to think more intentionally about how I could support a broader community—one that touches my own life more personally: the autism community.

Just ten weeks ago, The Autism Passport newsletter didn’t even exist.

So, why am I doing this newsletter?

Because I want to empower families—with useful resources, uplifting stories, practical tips, and sensory-friendly places to explore. I want to connect families with the inspiring people I’ve met along the way.

Why do I want to keep learning? Why autism?
Because I carry this mission close to my heart. I want to keep growing and educating myself so I can serve better and reach more people—not just in my town, but far beyond.

Autism touches more and more lives every year—not just individuals, but their families, siblings, and friends. And they all deserve support, encouragement, and resources.

That’s why I’m here.
That’s why we’re here.

Everyone’s journey is different. If something I share can make life a little easier for just one family, then my purpose is fulfilled.

Thanks for being here. Let’s keep learning, growing, and building a beautiful life—together. 💙

 I may not be able to fit in your shoes, but we can walk together!

🌍 Spotlight on Autism-Friendly Travel

I recently discovered something exciting: the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) is working to make the world more accessible for individuals with autism through their Certified Autism Center (CAC) program.

What does that mean?
It means places like hotels, restaurants, theme parks, museums, zoos, aquariums, and more can be trained and certified to better serve individuals and families impacted by autism. According to IBCCES, the goal is to help people “explore the world, make memories, and enjoy life’s experiences.”
🔗 Learn more here: IBCCES Travel & Leisure

One of the first cities to become an Autism Certified Destination is Mesa, Arizona—a place I’ve visited dozens of times! And yet, I had no idea this kind of certification even existed.

If you’re planning a trip, the Visit Mesa website is a great place to start. They offer resources, travel ideas, and lists of certified locations.

One of my favorite spots in Mesa?
🦖 The Arizona Museum of Natural History—especially the dinosaur displays! If you time your visit right, you might catch them when they "come alive." Just a heads-up: some effects include flashing lights and loud roars, which may not be sensory-friendly for everyone, so plan accordingly.

This kind of progress in travel accessibility gives me hope—and I’ll keep sharing more of these gems as I find them!

🌸 Thrive Together

What is your WHY?

In nearly every business class I’ve taken, that question always comes up:
“What is your why?”
It’s meant to be the fuel that drives your vision, the reason you keep going when things get hard.

But in personal growth or self-development work, the question often shifts to something deeper:
“What is your purpose?”

In Japanese, there’s a beautiful word for this: Ikigai—a reason for being. It’s the idea that each of us is here for something meaningful, something uniquely ours to give.

But let’s be honest. When you’re buried in daily life—school drop-offs, therapy appointments, work emails, cooking, cleaning, just trying to keep your kids alive and your sanity somewhat intact—it can feel impossible to find the time or energy to think about purpose.

And yet… what if there’s more to life than just getting through the day?
What if, in the midst of the laundry and late-night worry, there’s a deeper reason you were created—something that can lift you, guide you, and even bring you joy?

Sometimes, our purpose is simply to love and serve the people closest to us. But other times, it nudges us toward something greater—a way to make an impact beyond the walls of our home.

Thinking about this reminded me of a quiet moment in Brugge, Belgium, when I spotted a stunning swan floating gracefully on a peaceful river. Its wings formed a perfect heart, and for a moment, it looked like it was simply drifting with the current.

But as I followed it downstream, I saw something beautiful: a gathering of swans—its community. Each one looked regal and peaceful, just like her. She wasn’t aimless—she had a place, a path, and a purpose.

So do you.

Even when life is messy. Even when your days feel like survival mode.
You were created for something majestic.

What is your why?
What is your purpose?
What if your journey—your story—isn’t just about getting through, but about discovering the deeper meaning behind it all?/

✨ Pause & Reflect

Take a few quiet moments for yourself today and consider:

• What brings me joy—even in the midst of my busy days?

• Is there a part of me that’s been longing to do more, give more, or create more?

• Who might benefit from my story, my voice, or my presence beyond my home?

• What is something I’ve always loved or felt drawn to, even as a child?

• If I could make one small step toward purpose this week, what would it be?

You don’t need to figure it all out today—just start by listening to that gentle whisper inside. 💛

https://theautismpassport.com/subscribe

We’d love your feedback! Let Us Know What You Think! Email [email protected]