Finding Familiar Ground in the Most Unexpected Places

Earlier this week, I found myself in Franklin, North Carolina, celebrating my best friend Wendy’s birthday. Wendy and I share a love for "thrifting," and since it was her special day, we decided to explore some local shops we hadn’t yet visited. Little did I know that this simple outing would become a heartwarming reminder of the beautiful connections autism creates in our lives…

As we walked into one particular store, I immediately heard a sound that stopped me in my tracks—a young man’s voice, loud and repetitive. To most, it might have seemed unusual, but to me, it was oh so familiar. It was scripting—a behavior common in the autism world. In that moment, I felt like I was stepping into familiar territory, surrounded by the unspoken understanding of a shared journey.

Moments later, a man appeared and introduced himself as Tristin’s dad. “That’s my son Tristin,” he said with a smile. I smiled back, telling him how familiar this felt to me. While Jordan, my son, doesn’t use scripting in the same way, my friends Tim and Becky’s son, Trevor, who is 28, sounded just like Tristin. It was a comforting reminder that autism, while unique to each person, has these common threads that bind us together.

Dad was eager to share more about Tristin. He showed us a special setup—a dedicated room at the front of the store where Tristin spends his time. Tristin is 27, just a year younger than Jordan, but much taller. When Tristin came out to meet us, he had the biggest smile and an infectious, cheerful friendly demeanor that instantly reminded me of Trevor. He exuded happiness and warmth, the kind that brightens a room.

Tristin’s dad proudly explained that his son bakes and sells cookies to raise money for his favorite activity—bowling. Together, they travel from state to state, allowing Tristin to bowl in different states. They even had a map highlighting all the places they’ve been. What an amazing adventure and such a wonderful way for Dad to support Tristin’s passion.

As he spoke, I couldn’t help but admire this dad’s commitment and love for his son. I introduced myself and shared a bit about my journey with Jordan and how I coach moms raising autistic children.  We talked about their differences—how Tristin has a limited diet of mostly carbs, something his dad worries about as he gets older, while Jordan has a wide-ranging diet and only avoids a few things like broccoli, sweet potatoes, and almonds.

But what struck me most was how this dad was not only supporting his son but also sharing autism with every customer who walked through the door. Every cookie Tristin sells isn’t just a treat; it’s an opportunity to raise awareness and show the world what living alongside autism looks like.

Wendy and I couldn’t leave without buying some of Tristin’s cookies—they were delicious, by the way—and promising to visit again. As we walked out of the store, cookies in hand, my heart was full. This chance encounter reminded me of the importance of community and connection in this journey. Even when we feel alone, there are always others walking alongside us, living their own version of this beautifully challenging and rewarding life.

To Tristin’s dad—thank you for being a shining example of what it means to embrace the unexpected and to create joy in the journey. And to Tristin—keep baking, keep smiling, and keep being the amazing young man you are. You made my day brighter, and I can’t wait to visit again. 💙

Sometimes, the most ordinary moments—like walking into a thrift store—can turn into extraordinary reminders of the connection we all share. And for that, I am endlessly grateful.

Note: The picture accompanying this blog post is of my friend Tim and his son Trevor, not of Tristin and his dad. Asking for a picture in the moment felt a bit awkward, so I chose to share a photo that holds similar meaning.

This was written by Shannon Urquiola, Not Your Average Autism Mom