Gabe sees Gaby again for the first time since she moved away months ago. Nonverbal Autism Family

Gabe is autistic and nonspeaking. Over the summer we drove across the country from Maryland to Colorado so Gabe could attend a camp for kids with autism. Along the way to Aspen, CO we stopped in Boulder for two nights. While we were there we took Gabe to see a concert at the Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, CO. We saw the band STS9 in the pouring rain! It was awesome and Gabe loved dancing in the rain to their music! We wanted to get him something to remind him of this amazing night! We had three posters framed for his bedroom! #fortheloveofgabe #autism #autismawareness #nonverbal #nonverbalautism #nonspeaking #sts9 #redrocks
Follow us:
/ nicolegottesmann
/ fortheloveofgabepage1
/ nicolegottesmann1
Subscribe for more!
/ @fortheloveofgabe

[@kadebebesis4204]

The fact that he sat right next to her and have straight eye contact means a lot. You can tell that he loves her in his own way.

[@doobzification]

If I do that people think I’m zooted out my mind 🤣

[@xuxamelo]

She acknowledged that

[@maxhammeren4516]

I do not like that you said "in his own way" I dont really understand why I didn't like it, but it might be because autistics, we feel love the same way, meaning we love the same way emotionally, we just struggle knowing how to show and exspress on the outside because a lot of the time it does not come naturally

[@itzcarson11]

@@maxhammeren4516 considering he’s nonverbal he probably uses other ways to express love which is what the original commenter meant

[@amberunderkoffler1951]

@@maxhammeren4516i’m sure they didn’t mean anything by it.. he’s nonverbal, so he can’t just tell her that he missed her and loves her and is glad to see her. i understand what you’re saying, though

[@martineden05]

The straight eye contact he gave her means a lot.

[@20000dino]

@@officerjimlahey ok, sure.

[@Spider-Man12]

@@20000dinothat means nothing bruh.

[@thecaptainsnark]

@@Spider-Man12 why?

[@Spider-Man12]

@@thecaptainsnark idk.

[@syrup-]

People in this reply section, most people with autism have difficulty looking at people in their eyes.

[@sprinkles_091]

She doesnt judge. She doesnt flinch. She just understands. Thats all anyone can hope for in life personally.

[@junsmum]

I can't help but think how severely overwhelmed he was in that place. The noise, Gaby surprise, choices of food, no doubt smells etc

[@Dazais_Slave]

Same it’s a lot I understand a bit because I have autism

[@rayne4246]

I just have ADHD but that gets me all the time. I tend to focus on everything or one single thing at a time so going out tends to be a dice roll. Sometimes it's not so bad but sometimes it's awful and with social anxiety on top of that it means my social battery drains much much faster. And on that note I'm realizing how much I relate to people with ASD 💀💀 I'm glad I'm going go see a therapist

[@daphnenicholson3355]

I was thinking the same thing. Headphones or earplugs may have been a nice option.

[@Dazais_Slave]

@@rayne4246 well ADHD is commonly coincided with ASD :) but also symptoms are similar

[@rayne4246]

@Dazais_Slave the thing with that is, ADHD can manifest similarly to ASD in female children whereas it's the opposite for male children. For all I know I may actually be autistic 💀💀 I relate a lot with my autistic relatives but I've never gone to get a diagnosis.

[@lauraschulz5153]

I think he wanted her to know that it hurts him when she's gone, he had a very serious look in his eyes.

[@mothermarie6057]

I’ve often thought this as well on other videos and in my own family. I feel like those few minutes may be the person processing a bit of pain. ❤

[@bapbirb]

I think time or concept of time is quite different for those with autism.. Im not sure. But that seems to be the case for many. Im curious to know if he misses people or if he feels like he met someone again in like a day or so even if it has been a long time.

[@d.h.4778]

As an autistic, I can answer how I personally feel, although I can’t speak for us all. It depends on the person really. If it’s someone who I see in a routine, like from everyday to once a week, it can be hard to adjust and hurt. But if it’s someone that isn’t necessarily a party of my routine I don’t feel any different really. It can be months or even years since I’ve spoken to them, but I still feel just as close to them. I’m sure with siblings he is hurt like anyone else would be, but his family also communicates very well with him, nonverbal doesn’t mean unable to understand or communicate. I also mean no offense by anything I said and was just giving my perspective it’s different for every single one of us.

[@tigergreg8]

I think you pin pointed it perfectly. He may not be able to speak, but he can make you visualize what he's feeling.

[@moniquehandy7103]

That's why I'm crying like a baby

[@erichuxley5107]

I had an autistic girl put into my crew at work. She spoke to nobody and just worked. She approached me one day with a little badge that was a picture of a mushroom. She found out my old nickname was shroom and she gave me it out of her own collection. I’ve had many sweet moments with my staff. But that one will stick with me forever. I put a lot of effort into trying to communicate with her without disturbing her mind. She appreciated that. Affection from an autistic person is the best. You know it’s totally genuine and you’ve done a good job.

[@mishynaofficial]

Aww that's so sweet

[@HarrisonJames1023]

That's trippy shroom.

[@SP-qo3pd]

It's like when your cat brings you a half eaten field mouse. You better pet the shit out of him/her because they're loyal.

[@timm6892]

@@SP-qo3pd Ehhh….do what now?

[@erikjames3361]

Pet the shit out of the cat, because the cat essentially brought you lunch lol

[@timpeters7852]

He squeezed every amount of focus into her and then got distracted by all the other stimuli. Pretty sweet kid:)

[@RangerSparx]

My 9yr old son has Asperger's. I feel like a horrible father when I lose my patience with him and yet he fills my heart with so much love! Our son has been through so much medically speaking with a complex airway. I see the love this young man gets from everyone and it inspires me to be more patient. Thank you so much!

[@spencer111]

Aspergers is no longer an acceptable diagnosis on the DSM5 It is just ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) -An Autistic adult

[@PhilmoreDrone]

@@spencer111doesn’t matter what you think stop bitching

[@spencer111]

You dont have to be rude I was just educating this person

[@RangerSparx]

​@spencer111 yes I understand and know that Asperger's is no longer an acceptable diagnosis due to insurance. However, it is still a classification of ASD, much in the same way that some may say non-verbal or such. I appreciate your input on the matter. I would appreciate much more any advice you may have to help me be able to help my son and mold him into the fine outstanding person I know he will be, especially from an autistic adult such as yourself! I could really use the help! Thank you!

[@DaughterOfStardust]

(Also, it’s 100% okay for people to prefer to call it Asperger’s if that’s the autistic individual’s preference or if that’s what it needs to be called in order to get proper help for their specific situation). -Another autistic adult

[@lisagray4331]

The face, nose to nose, eye to eye is how my granddaughter shows when she has huge affection or love for somebody. When she does exactly what this precious young man did, it is the equivalent of somebody running and jumping into another's arms with joy at seeing that person. My heart swelled seeing him greet her the same way❤️

[@pattismith6958]

This. A lot of people don’t understand how personal/intimate eye contact is for us. I can totally do eye contact- but it’s with my family and best friends!

[@tammypennington35]

​@pattismith6958 my granddaughter was small and we played a game when getting her Starbucks...'what color are the eyes' the staff knew us and knew her many seeing her grow they was awesome!! It helped us and her❤❤❤❤

[@NoSympathyGiven]

that is so sweet

[@sc4739]

Thank you for translating that for me. What a beautiful moment ❤

[@spinjsteele]

Thank you for explaining that. I thought so, but wasn't sure. ❤

[@Bbbebeebdjxhx]

That hardcore acknowledgement of her. Very heartwarming. Very polite.

[@sjkdsfsdf52]

is he autism ?

[@kiaratheexplorer4]

But then why did he suddenly look away for the rest of the time?

[@someguy9778]

Looks like she was rubbing his leg.

[@mden08]

@kiaratheexplorer4 a lot, not all autistic people have trouble making or keeping eye contact. He's not going to sit there and stare at her, or all ot the sudden behave like he's nuerotypical- but he def did greet her!

[@blahblahblah412]

​@@kiaratheexplorer4 because autistic ppl can struggle to make eye contact, but that was definitely acknowledging her

[@tlh7490]

When he leaned in to face closely and stared, that was his, "Hi Gabby. I missed you too." My little guy is on the spectrum. He is low verbal, and yes, he facial expressions and body language are very clear at times. He will lean in to me the same as Gabe did, Gaby. Sometimes, he says, "Hi mommy," and sometimes nothing but a sweet stare. Our autistic community are amazing individuals. I thank God for my son every day, even during the challenging times.

[@johnnybickle13]

Like Gaby I too had the privilege of being the favorite person of a very special young lady named Jennifer. I was a cook in her families favorite restaurant and one day her mother informed me of my special place in her daughters life. She didn't speak much, but said that there was one person she spoke about. One only .. And that was me........Needless to say i was honored and beyond touched. From that day on i made it my job no matter to make sure that she knew i loved her. And would drop anything i was doing for her. I'm so lucky in my life, i have had so many experiences and life lessons. I am so happy that Gabe is so loved..

[@tedfred3861]

🥹🥹😭❤️

[@nomorebsforme]

Hey Gabe!!! Hope you are having a fine day!!!

[@beachbum1110]

Sounds like Jennifer has impeccable taste. ❤

[@johnnybickle13]

@@beachbum1110 Awww,, that is such a nice thing to say to me ... Thank you ❤🧡💚💙

[@barbaraelizabeth4011]

He looked sad when he looked at her. Think he missed her lots 😍

[@tatertots214]

do u understand autism bro?

[@xumixu]

Very fitting emoji 😭😭😭

[@bleak3304]

​@xumixu i know right? he must feel so dead inside 🥳

[@xumixu]

@@bleak3304 No, dumbo. The emoji gives the sentence, in my opinion, a very weird feeling. "Oh, I think he really missed her 😍😍😍😍" Feels odd but oh well, that's just me. Whatever, have a nice one!

[@Suprachiasmatic]

@@xumixu I think they were agreeing with you.

[@DFullerLisa]

It's so interesting to see how he communicates. At first, it doesn't appear as anything, but you watch the video a couple of times, and I think it's in the eye contact he makes. Edit: 12k likes Holy smollie!

[@karimarie0638]

100% it is. Yes. It seems he was essentially telling her, "Don't you leave me for that long again."❤🥲

[@calistao.24]

I do a thing where even if someone is my best friend, if I don’t see them in a week or more than I will default to acting very “shy” around them. This video reminds me of me for sure

[@ItsAllAboutPerspective375]

My entire immediate family is neurodivergent, on the Autism/Asperger/ADHD spectrum. My husband was diagnosed very early since he has the classic male presentation of symptoms, as well as all 3 of our sons were. I wasn't diagnosed until after our children's therapists kept asking when I had been, so that's actually how I found out about mine. Which explains why all of our children kept having it. ❤ Gabe is the spitting image of our eldest son Michael, who was nonverbal for the first several years, but has somehow progressed past it. I can't believe how much they look alike, even the high volume, dirty blonde hair! Our middle son is named Gabriel, who was only nonverbal for a few years, but also struggles with other mental/emotional and G.I issues. Our youngest Elijah is our wild card, you never know what he'll say, and while he also has G.I. issues, doesn't struggle as much overall. To try to explain nonverbal responses, imagine that you have facial paralysis for the most part, and a bit of a lazy eye issue. That alone makes communication and conveying emotions incredibly difficult. Imagine being hyper aware of everything all at once, all the time, including an entire world of imagination constantly going on inside your mind, all simultaneously. I know that's only the beginning of the explanation, but I hope it gives someone the general idea behind it. Gabe clearly loves, cares about, and respects her. This video is very moving.

[@mariannoleary5462]

I don't know how anyone could stay in a place where there is so much noise

[@pdxoneway]

It's in his eye contact??? He doesn't make eye contact. Even when he looks right at her, he somehow has the power to look right around her at the same time. He's a superhero

[@victoriagames8668]

1.) I love how it's Gabe and Gaby 2.) I love how friendly and kind she's being 3.) I have an autistic brother and videos about or that have autistic people in it always catches my eye, because I can relate to the other person's point of view sometimes

[@felisaoyola7708]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@zzzut]

I just can’t get over how sweet and beautiful that child is.

[@brysonbumgardner5015]

I have 2 boys with autism and I've learned that body language is EXTREMELY important. The way he sits next to her so quickly, snaps up when he hears her voice, and gives her direct close eye contact speak volumes as to how much he loves her. Sweet moment

[@ILoveGettingPegged]

Gross.

[@CloudHeady]

thanks for sharing ❤ I didn't understand and felt a little sad for her watching 😅 oops!

[@MrExitboon]

What are you eating?

[@ILoveGettingPegged]

@@MrExitboon your mom

[@legendarien1075]

Your husband got them sllllooooOOOWWWW swimmers huh?

[@smilechelsea.3375]

His head snapping up as soon as he hears her voice, the double take followed by the prolonged eye contact… it’s like he’s telepathically telling her he’s happy to see her🖤

[@boo11belen]

That eye contact was like the biggest hug to the heart Made me melt 🥰

[@GRAYgauss]

True. I also suspect he hadn't wholly integrated the sensation of her presence until she spoke

[@isaacvelasquez3892]

No, he is not. If he was, you would notice, autism literally means something around inside yourself, he can just like her, but let's not say he's happy when he isn't

[@rrai-]

💀💀💀💀💀😂😂😂😂😂 he diesntgive af

[@necromancer234]

​@@rrai-yeah maybe...just does not want to work

[@GingleKittyPress]

The noise restaurant seems to have overwhelmed him.😮❤

[@irenestanciel]

I used to give respite care for autistic children .... It was the most rewarding job ever. I still can't get over how much the two little boys loved me. They loved watching Tomas the train. ❤❤❤ when I would ring the doorbell. I could hear the little brother yelling, mom its the lady, shes back 😅😅😅😅 they were so sweet and excited to see me. I will never forget them.

[@jacquelinetregidgomcgann9388]

Aww bless his heart . He just told her straight he wasn't happy she hasn't been around. He's such a lush kid ❤

[@chriswhite4999]

I love this comment! You're lush, too!

[@hibaabughoush9216]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 what’s your name I know you’re not a baddie D

[@himaririku5289]

what's lush

[@iliketurtles4463]

​@@himaririku5289what the camgirls use...

[@mushroommagic144]

I've always seen 'lush' used to mean sexy. So this is a bit confusing for me.

[@Cissablack708]

That clear diect eye contact and sitting right next to her immediately speaks volumes. What a beautiful relationship they have between them. ❤

[@onespoiledpup3776]

Yes, eye contact is a huge deal. Which is why it is not constant. It is still hard for him. They have a deep bond despite their time apart. I hope it is not months before he gets to see her again. ❤

[@mario-off-topic]

He got pushed into the seat.

[@no0bbbb]

​@@mario-off-topic Incoming comment deletion for promoting reality instead of fake cringe

[@freedomisbrightestindungeons]

It’s called being an awkward teen 😂 Quit over coddling your child

[@aarisreed6795]

I smell my favorite person too

[@maka3130]

My son is non verbal autistic and also has cerebral palsy, he is a very interesting character, so smart and FULL of energy. He only really takes interest in me or his mother, but the odd time he will acknowledge someone that he usually wouldn’t and it fills my heart with enough joy to last me a lifetime. He might not speak but he will surely let you know how he feels by his mannerisms.

[@GmaT1776]

Our little guy is only seven and of course he too has been nonverbal seeing your son makes me happy he's growing up so fast I often think what his life is going to be and it is my hope and prayer that he will enjoy going to restaurants it's hard for him to be around light and noise and so many things I have always hoped that as he gets older these things will be easier 🥰🙏

[@sierraduring7137]

Getting close-up eye contact is special with autistic people. My son gets in my face to look in my eyes then hugs me, and I just get so warm inside🥹🥹

[@KrupekXD]

Omg that sounds adorable now i see why this got so many likes 👏

[@TheGothMoths]

I mean I guess so yeah I'm autistic but you'll never see street eye contact for me. I am the type of autistic that does not make any eye contact because it is really uncomfortable so lol

[@Boredness90]

@@TheGothMothsdisrespectfully, no one cares

[@TheGothMoths]

@@Boredness90 literally wtf?

[@TheGothMoths]

@@Boredness90 what was the point in your comment? Why be mean for no reason?

[@beteeho]

A very handsome young man. How wonderful that he has friends who care about him and understand him.

[@keegansullivan7432]

I was thinking the exact same thing, kids a stud!

[@missthangd4311]

@@keegansullivan7432very weird to say that…

[@Silvia.Araujo]

@@keegansullivan7432 …

[@tatyana1230]

@@missthangd4311it’s really not. He’s a cute kid…

[@CalitmeWhoLoveA]

​@@tatyana1230 that person didn't say cute, said stud, which is weird. Very because he looks entirely too young.

[@Dixiepickles09]

Wait why is he kinda fine 😍✨

[@rikowilleatyourmom]

FRRR

[@Epic-tete]

It's crazy how humans like to be amazed about what they think is happening in someone else's mind.

[@dl1279]

Wait until you see the animal videos!

[@sakii2254]

You can see how much he cares about her, just his body language and the look in his eyes.

[@QuyenNguyen-dq5ro]

o

[@christinemerritt974]

I love how Gabe looks straight into your soul to check on you.

[@SRose-vp6ew]

He absolutely did. As a Christian that’s what I saw him do too. You truly can “see” a person when you look into their eyes and check on them. I’ve heard some people say it can be incredibly overstimulating to read so much from a person‘s eyes. I’m not autistic but I do have a hard time looking into peoples eyes when their eyes don’t match the conversation. You can see when someone suffering, struggling, distracted, phony, confused, or even demonized. However, I find it very easy to look into someone’s eyes when they are completely on the same page or want to be.

[@aerokasyeal4840]

​@@SRose-vp6ew i advice you to believe in the one and only God that have no son or partner, the one that jesus peace be with him asked you to worship

[@mikudubskasai8725]

@@SRose-vp6ewyou may be on to something… I’m pretty sure people can “see” me. I relate to you 110% but it’s worse for me. I found myself not being strong enough to have eye contact time to time, if that even make sense. I wish i can be better, before it gets worse and worse. 20 now but not the grown kind 😅 since 16 I started having so many random small social issues that I was so confused about. It kept getting bigger like a small snowball rolling into a larger one without me even realizing. Besides that, your eyes tell an important story of your life. I’m aware of that much so maybe that’s why we feel slight pressure on eye contact, because two parties are learning a story about one another, maybe your soul doesn’t cooperate with certain other souls for personal reasons? I’d love to learn more about this sensation and the topic overall

[@chameleon28]

@@aerokasyeal4840Jesus asked us to worship his father God. Stop spreading your satanic nonsense that Muhammad came up with

[@ZeZeMichael]

@@aerokasyeal4840 Jesus claimed to be Eternal, Jesus refers to the angels as "His Angels", can any man do this? claim ownership of that which is God's? Jesus told his disciples to get him a donkey, and if the man says something tell him THE LORD has need of them.

[@shayk.393]

i love his gentleness

[@Direct-Current]

Teen Young man already go through so much and are often seen for not having big hearts. They deal with much more than we know or remember. So seeing Gabe seeing her again can't help but feel how them emotions were popping off and then to be non verbal well a lil extra different . I am so proud of him he continues to thrive with all of yalls support. Great peeps surrounding a great kid named Gabe. Much love light and respect Houston Tx.

[@user-zw6is6ng4r]

The noise in that place! 🥴 No wonder he's distracted

[@angelahamilton1656]

This young man may not have a hypersensitivity to noise. My son does and he wouldn’t walk in at all or would make it clear he wanted to leave. He is also non verbal ❤

[@taracat7141]

Still very distracting....

[@leahspilchen590]

My thought exactly. I couldn't stay there.

[@user-ek7yc9fh7y]

He's overwhelmed..the noise, seeing her is emotional

[@rarebird_82]

That's what I thought, a packed noisy venue is overwhelming to the "standard" person, let alone the neurodivergent, kid did well just being there.

[@unkl115]

Man, he loves her so much. That look. It's so rare and reserved for only the most special people. I'm a support worker, and I've been looking after a non-verbal autistic man for 18 months. He stays at my house for 3 nights a week. It means so much when you get that kind of recognition. It took 18 months, and a lot of time and care to earn that from my guy. That is massive love right there.

[@csch810]

You’re awesome ❤

[@danielg9745]

What look? All i saw is him get close asf and smell her while looking past her

[@mecki9532]

@@danielg9745Just say you know nothing about autism and move on

[@haruka_niki]

​@@danielg9745what the heck? you sound WILD!!! just don't comment weird stuff

[@wondering_jaay]

Teach him. Rather then push the guy away. Educate before pushing away.

[@acur7227]

A gentle soul he looks like. God bless him and his family!

[@MorganMakesThings]

Those looks in the eyes were giant hugs, clearly. ❤

[@LeanneMichelle-2830]

He missed her so much. What people don't look for is how close is he sitting to her. Speaks volumes for autism!!! So lovely

[@crystalpreuett9539]

This reminds me of when I working as a respite carer for a 6 yr old little girl who was autistic. I helped her learn simple self-care tasks, as well as trying to aid her in using calming techniques and/or stems that were less disturbing (for instance, playing w/ a little toy while humming, instead of screaming super loudly). The first time we put on her favorite show to give her a decompression break, and she chose ,fully on her own, to sit on my lap and pull my arms around to hold her (instead of sitting on her little chair, or standing up as she typically did), it was all I could do to hold myself together! 🥰 I was over the moon, and so were her parents who just looked at us sitting there like they'd just seen an alien! They said she hardly ever did that, even w/ family members. It felt so good to know that I had become a safe person to her; someone she knew she could relax around, and I'd take care of her! 🤗 I often wonder about her, and how she's making it these days.

[@deviantash]

This I noticed first thing! He went straight to her and sat so close. Also, the lovely close eye contact. He indeed shows her importance to him. His body language is very telling.

[@karenfitzpatrick6256]

He was directly checking on how she was. So much more meaningful than someone saying, "How are you" but not hearing a word said. Gabe's "language" is powerful!

[@johnastrid5512]

Ok

[@nfearther2936]

What? Yea ifk

[@Noti-hm2vl]

I don’t think ur very good at reading people dude. He was clearly very serious and sad/hurt that she left

[@charlesanderson3308]

No it is not.

[@margaretodonnell7313]

It’s very hard for people who don’t deal with autism every day to understand their nonverbal communication. My son is verbal but I still have to read the nonverbal cues he is giving in a social situation.

[@Vliegenmepper2377]

F-ing hell. As a semi-non-speaking autistic I certainly have lots of questions: What were you thinking when deciding to go to this place. The noise! OMG! Ouch! That we're either non-speaking or semi-non-speaking, doesn't mean you have to put on some childish voice either. We do get you, you know. Our mouth isn't cooperating though. And what's with the comments about "how amazing it is that he's making eye-contact"? Could you people be as happy if we don't? Because if we don't it means that we put in all the efford it takes to actually be able to concentrate on what you're saying, without another sensory issues that would hinder this. In this case making eye-contact. Sjeez🤦‍♀️

[@vanessahudson9788]

Teaching on supply, I had no experience with autism but was given a 6 week post with an autistic boy, (taken into care) aged 14, who was non speaking, extremely challenging and aggressive to those he didn't trust. Whilst his behaviour continued to be extremely unpredictable, we formed a bond and on my last day, he proved this. I sat on the floor next to him and told him, this was my last day and that I would miss being with him. He placed his head against my cheek and then gave me a kiss. I will never forget that tender moment, nor the boy who tested my resilience but I was so glad of the opportunity to try to understand a part of his world.

[@bobcaygeon6799]

It's really heart-breaking because for them to FINALLY bond and then it's poof gone is REALLY tough on them. But thank you so much for your courage to see it through 6 weeks. It's no easy feat and he has not forgotten you. Promise :-)

[@vanessahudson9788]

@@bobcaygeon6799 What a beautiful and encouraging message. At the time, I would be silently angry at other staff, (in the care facility) for discussing in front of him, if a specialist care facility had been found. I always noticed these discussions resulted in a negative effect on his behavior, likely through fear. I think they thought because he was non verbal, he wouldn't understand, though I perceived and witnessed it differently. Despite being a challenging role, I was sad to leave him, as his time had come to go to a permanent home, a specialist autism facility, where he would have much more freedom to explore his world, without fear of harm, indoor and outdoor. I do hope he's happy there and hope that even my lack of autism awareness, I made some positive difference to his life.

[@kieranhalkyard3552]

He makes me want to be autistic 😂

[@johnnoon9999]

you shouldnt engage in such behavior with children.

[@HeatherNico25]

And you shouldn't reply with an idiotic comment but here we are!​@johnnoon9999

[@whatbringsmepeace]

I can't even imagine the storm inside his mind in such a loud, distracting place. Poor kid. Watched it a few times and I'm so impressed with how patient she is with him, and how loving. He so clearly loves her back. So wholesome and heart-warming to see people able to make such a deep connection when they don't speak the same language.

[@sproket168]

Did you get all of that from watching this video

[@monochromebunni3887]

​@@sproket168 Yes. My brother is autistic and I can see it all. But ykno 🤷‍♂️ videos are posted for us to comment on

[@feedmeastraycat8247]

@@sproket168you are a miserable person. You are not happy. I got all that from your comment.

[@treyjordan1284]

​@@sproket168maybe think for like one second before you speak.

[@yourevilhalf1413]

​@@treyjordan1284he was thinking, hence the question

[@AngelAllenson]

I love learning new things about different walks of life. At first, I thought it was a bit sad that he didn’t acknowledge her and continued to look away. When I opened the comments, I read so many informative words and positivity. When I watched it again, I thought how truly blessed it was that he was calm, quiet, and shared eye contact with her. I saw it all differently. Learning is such an enriching journey. Edit: I understand that, to some, my comment may seem like I’m virtue signaling or making it about me as someone pointed out. In this case, I’m sorry if it came across like that. I just wanted to share how I felt watching it and learning from it. I wouldn’t comment if it was posted by an account that farms these videos for its own personal gain. But, Gabe’s family shared it themselves and I wanted them to read a little positivity in their videos. That what they’re doing is helping others learn and see things differently.

[@dougish]

Super good post. Living is learning, learning is living.

[@atlasferrara7418]

You were willing to look for answers and learn. That’s a big part of growing and being able to see the bits of happiness and beauty in this world. Good on you!

[@atlasferrara7418]

@@goodbyesafavorJust as the commenter did, you could educate yourself even slightly so you can see how much the interaction actually means. Someone on the spectrum as the boy is wouldn’t make eye contact with anyone, so him looking at her and making that eye contact was demonstrative of how much he loves/cares for her. The rest is him processing that joy and self regulating in an environment that could easily be overwhelming.

[@randomvintagefilm273]

​@@atlasferrara7418Right, social environments are VERY overwhelming!

[@gwynnethwilson3511]

what a beautiful perspective

[@sadafsayyada2058]

Autistic kids are straight from heaven so innocent man, god bless this boy

[@LifeOfATLS]

Who else thinks autism is overused and people can just be weird and not be given a mental disorder just for being different. Counter productive to me. A guy in a wheel chair doesn’t wanna be treated like he’s in a wheelchair!!

[@colemarie9262]

The level of noise and his calmness with it is really amazing in itself!

[@Theb1gtedyeah]

I was thinking just the same! 💚

[@chikenfrye5071]

As one who actually has ASD, I have to appreciate Gaby's patience with Gabe. Though I'm on a higher end of the spectrum, I can remember it being hard for me to communicate with people. Especially as I grew up (I'm 20 now). Thankfully, I was surrounded by people like Gaby. This short strikes a personal chord, and reminds me that there are people who will make the effort in leading those who need extra help.

[@JustShirleyL]

I want to ask an ignorant question: Is that the brain can’t process “common behavior “ or that it can but willingly refuse to…?

[@suzannah4446]

​@@JustShirleyL i am also curious as my brother is non verbal also

[@9babyblu]

​@@JustShirleyL It a bit of A and B. It can process. It's just that it processes differently. Society has deemed what is 'common or normal' It is different for each individual on the spectrum or who are neurodivergent in general so to make a blanket statement answer is really difficult. My son is ASD and with behavioral therapy, learned tools to help with processing and coping. I work with special needs adults with a variety of disabilities and mental barriers and some process and a few just cant. My opinion with experiance is: They all can process. Even the ones who look like they can't. The 1s who look like they can't, don't like the end result of what they've processed or were not taught the tools to learn. Some may have other disorders than just ASD which make teaching them extremely challenging. Those are considered high risk individuals and some of those people are violent. I hope this answers your question. If not, you can Google "do autistic people process" and Google will have a blurp for an answer. 😊

[@AprilRain.]

​@JustShirleyL At times, depending on the interaction or environmental effects, it may be less about willingness and more of a psychological inability(some kind of blockage/stop 🚫) to proceed with the action of said common behavior even though they are capable.

[@lavender1539]

⁠@@JustShirleyLi was nonspeaking for a good two years of my childhood. for me i could process like what you were saying and what i wanted to say, but physically couldn’t make it come out. especially in public. it kind of felt like when youre about to cry and you get that lump in your throat and can’t make a word come out to express yourself. it was a physical block for me. my experience doesn’t speak for all autistic people tho, im level one so i can’t speak for the other levels of autism. just my personal experience with it!

[@ellehell3914]

I love Gabe he is an angel from above blessed from God.

[@elegantrose888]

I had family gathering my cousin her son is autistic I never meet me before anyho they told me he never talks or wants a hugs or any emotion ... that after we talked and he jumped out of the car and gave me the biggest hug ever called my name just kept hugging and talking to me saying you going to come home with me, I said I can't he started crying then wanted more hugs didn't wanna let go .. my cousin and family just sat standing watching In awe tears and Speechless .... I didn't ever know he was different with me he was normal..we talked like normal he laughed he smiled then he hugged he cried.. Im glad I didn't get told he was different before we had such a fun time.. I will never believe he was different he was just kind sweet and full of joy.. 😢❤

[@naowright9308]

He reminds me of my niece, who is autistic, though slightly verbal. She once gave me a kiss, and I felt so honored!💝

[@arctrooper5ives]

this is so wholesome and cute!! it warms my heart to read this!

[@Not_So_Fireproof]

Sounds like the Alabama special episode of how i met your mother... (jokes aside, thats really cute)

[@RepubliKING]

She sounds just like my cousin. The human mind is an enigma and will always be something we want to know more and more. Sometimes I wonder if the brain is actually capable of being a 100% explored or understood.

[@nola_unplugd]

That intentional lean in and eye contact said everything he needed to be said. For those who don’t speak neurodivergent… he basically said “I trust you, I missed you & I love you.” Not like the in love type of love but as a you bring me peace kind of love.

[@jodieclare]

Everyone’s different. You can’t ‘speak neurodivergent’. You wouldn’t understand what he’s saying unless you know him.

[@shirley5752]

As a grandmother of an 18 year old autistic grandson, this young man spoke volumes by leaning in with direct eye contact. He definitely felt safe sitting next to his friend. ❤❤❤

[@Roxcyn5]

You “speak neurodivergent?” That’s offensive. I believe he is expressing anger and hurt that she left him and moved away.

[@rdb4996]

​@Roxcyn5 and so we all observe reality and see our own truth. Only Gabe knows.

[@nola_unplugd]

@@Roxcyn5 I’m on the spectrum myself. I don’t speak for everyone on the spectrum but I definitely have an understanding of it. Funny how you’re claiming it to be offensive yet you paraphrased what I said.

[@bristratostar7908]

I've never seen a human being not smile at someone they love. Yet, i can tell by his intense zoom-in how much she means to him.

[@xSkankHunt42]

We take living a somewhat normal life for granted everyday, I can’t imagine how hard life is for this young man, prayers to your family

[@S3xiblaque1983]

His reaction when he realized it was Gaby speaks volumes! Just beautiful!

[@billrobbins5874]

She knows how to interact with him in a positive way. Touching to see. ♥️

[@veniaminf5105]

​@@unqualified_engineer watch the video again please

[@ozarkprepper1718]

What most people dont know about autism is the person who has it is aware of everything. Even the silent whispers between relatives. And one of the most hurtful things is to laugh off any opinion,or idea an autistic person may have. My symptoms were half as visible as his. I always had the stare,never noticed time passing,check things over and over to make sure like locking doors,turning off appliances. To this day i stay away from crowds. Its different for each person but its real.

[@nezahuatez]

With his level of autism you have no idea what he is aware of, let’s be real.

[@sleebyfaif]

thank you for saying this

[@Aceofspades2006]

Yeah I’m autistic not dumb or deaf or blind. Matter of fact I have really good hearing because I’m autistic and my senses are more sensitive then others, it can help but also hurt

[@carriecree1789]

I had a classmate in high school with autism named Shaun. I became aware of his need to verbally express himself to the group sometimes, because when he felt emotions, they were probably stronger than average people, but he didn't seem to know if it was an appropriate time to speak. So I made a point to ask him at least once a day in class what he thinks. One day, I noticed him really smiling, and he said, "I love flowers so much, and when they open up it's a surprise like popcorn and no two look the same and it makes me happy how they aren't all alike." That statement was a gift, and I look at every garden with flowers differently, and I too feel happy.

[@nikkiwurn3921]

Oh my goodness ❤️ what a beautiful, eloquent statement! How precious that you made room for your classmate to express himself. As a stepmom of an autistic son and aunt of a nonverbal autistic nephew, thank you for your kindness. I bet your classmate remembers your kindness to him for the rest of his life. ❤️🌸🍿😊

[@emilybeaulieu999]

He is just so beautiful

[@francesrivard]

I love Gabe.

[@amandalove2657]

The eye contact he made with her, you can tell he knows her very well. That was his way of saying hello to her. He's so sweet!❤

[@Percival-kl9yy]

*Are they boyfriend and girlfriend?*

[@zpushy633sora8]

​@@Percival-kl9yy That would've been Romantic if they were

[@amandalove2657]

@Percival-kl9yy No, he has non verbal autism. She is just a family friend that he loves and hadn't seen in a long time.

[@Percival-kl9yy]

@@zpushy633sora8 *Extremely romantic.* 👍

[@Percival-kl9yy]

@@amandalove2657 *Loves romantically?* 🙂

[@bernarddodd9788]

I supported an incredible yong man in my early 20's who was non verbal autistic. As his trust in me devloped, when he looked me in the eye, it was a profound emotional connection. When i told him i was leaving, he took my head in his hands and kissed my forehead. Its an emotion in its purest form if that makes sense.

[@CandiceMarino]

Awe that does make sense that sounds like such a sweet moment I love it.

[@bernarddodd9788]

@@CandiceMarino thank you for your response Candice.

[@imperialsecuritybureau6037]

🥺 very touching. You clearly had a very positive effect on him!

[@bernarddodd9788]

@@imperialsecuritybureau6037 thank you; and him on me. It defined my purpose in life and working in the field of autism. It has always been a privelidge. I can truly say, that I am because of who they are. There is no separation. I cannot begin to think of who I would be without, their presence and joy. I am retired now. I get the clinical work, to support. It is not always easy. Their posts, create a positivity and I am all in with that.

[@ritasantos-lule4032]

My Grandson is autistic and you're comment brings tears to my eyes he must really love you another ♥💙❤

[@CarlyBarley333]

I work with autistic people and when they’re comfortable with you, especially when they’re non verbal, it’s the best feeling. One of my kids with run his nose against my arm and the first time he did that I almost cried.

[@feliciaburdock9093]

I don't even know this boy and I just love him. I pray God blesses him and his family richly.

[@johnc5872]

Gaby is so sweet... the fact that he got that close and she didn't even Flinch or move back shows that they do that a lot and she allows it which really shows what kind of person she is most people would have freaked out with somebody getting that clothes she didn't even blink

[@MsMtheory]

*close... Clothes lol 😂😊

[@siccandtwistted]

​@@MsMtheory unnecessary

[@haileyparsons6647]

i love how his head goes up immediately when she says “hi” 🥹🥹 then looks over at her. so sweet. i luv this

[@vermontmom4232]

My nephew is nonverbal autistic and there was a day he hung out with me and sat me down and held my cheeks. I swore that boy read my soul. But we made eye contact and he smiled and gave me a hug. Sweetest boy ever! ❤

[@heatherwheeler3242]

I love how he looks at her .I could see how happy he was to see her and how sad he is when there apart.I thought he was going to hug her or maybe a sweet, gentle kiss. Thanks for sharing.

[@evilmikuplushie4603]

As an autistic person seeing this comment section be so positive and supportive is really relieving. You don't usually see that in Yt shorts lol.

[@brownin329]

I'm also autistic and it is unusual but I hope it happens more often.😊

[@drorose2225]

Truee.

[@caramelcopcat]

@McCarthy-kg3yoWhat 😭 herbs cant “save your son from autism”

[@FarukShabanOmar]

A survey poped up about your comment.

[@evilmikuplushie4603]

@@FarukShabanOmar really? And what did your rate my comment?

[@bottomofastairwell]

Not just the eye contact butt the way he gets so close and shares his space. That's so sweet

[@keithgraham4747]

There is something rather brilliant about one who communicates without speaking. Something worth learning here.

[@Bella-bz7fq]

My husband was just like that.😊. No more .25 yrs I can't shut him up.😅❤he still motions like Gabe .he has a job .he is a functioning autistic..but I married him very young. He TRUSTED me. They go from mother to wife. Like in the bible.

[@eskiltester3913]

That acknowledgement speaks volumes. Amazing to see him express himself that way. Brought a few tears here.

[@Bowiebonolennon1982]

I'm weeping...

[@latifahn3323]

That look was absolutely "how dare you" mixed with "i missed you too". Knowing how my little brother gets when he doesnt see me or our sisters for an extended time period this interaction definitely made me smile and chuckle a little.

[@ranmc9770]

Yeah the why have you not been here for me and I care about you so much.

[@STRANGERINMOSCOW1]

I swear this child is an angel❤

[@unclegosha7304]

Looking like me off 5 tabs 😂😂😂

[@kennedyjames4115]

😂

[@rory3385]

I love that she observes him and then waits and gives him a minute to do his thing before communicating again instead of just constantly talking at him.

[@rarebird_82]

An emotional reunion in a noisy packed venue would overwhelm your average person, let alone the neurodivergent. Well done Gabe and Gaby 💞 The eye contact speaks 1,000 words.

[@Darvit_Nu]

When he made intense, close eye contact.. it said everything in that one moment. "You were gone" "I missed you" "Trust" "safety" "you're my person" "I love you" so much in that look. I am autistic too & the courage it takes to look at someone, let alone the eye contact that always feels so threatening .. he is so incredibly brave!!! ❤

[@93Hiroko]

The peering into her face is really sweet. He is really comfortable with her even when he sat down he leans toward her almost bumping into her. My cousin used to just plop down right next to me and almost sit on me as kid but didnt make eyecontact, while fiddling with some toy. but that was his way of saying he wants to be around someone.

[@mikasasukasa4479]

Damn that eye contact and sitting so close to her. Im glad there are people like her giving people love like this.

[@samferrara1150]

Oh wow. He’s feeling so deeply. He looks completely overwhelmed. ❤

[@graws7009]

🤦 goofy

[@Sncex]

goofy? how so?@@graws7009

[@meaganfilteau9751]

That whole restaurant is so loud! 😮I'd be very overwhelmed

[@jennycowan8748]

Yeah. And you shouldn't do that to an autistic kid. He's confused and scared and they brought him to a loud and busy restaurant. This is not cute. This is irresponsible.

[@susanbyron6499]

@Jenny, Megan. Yes. This.

[@julieselis9749]

When Gabe looks at her it’s like he sees into her soul and sees a very special human.What a gift to all that know her she is.

[@t.ellevision]

I teared up this was so precious! He definitely loves her, and the love is shared 💕

[@rosannarichardson7951]

Him looking so close to you is his way of hugging. That’s beautiful

[@thomasandersen2534]

My little brother is autistic Gabe enjoyed seeing her. Her presence was everything in that moment. Gabe is an awesome guy no doubt.

[@Boatanga]

More of an ok pet or really good plant

[@thepizzacarpizza1056]

@Boatanga what is wrong with you

[@xnwn]

@@Boatangasorry that you didn’t receive the same kind of love gabe has from his family. you look at people giving him the same benefit of trust and affection and it tears you up huh

[@nyteshayde1197]

My daughter is autistic. I have a soft spot for these children. They engage with the world in their own way. The direct eye contact he gave her was special. He seems to handle the world around him well. He must have an amazing team of therapists and specialists.

[@SpiritWorldTarot]

Absorbing the sound light and energy and glad to see her...

[@HerMajesty0812]

That's awesome eye contact She means a lot. You can tell his parents adore him. He is immaculate. Not a drop on that white shirt. Means they pay attention to detail without annoying him. ❤

[@user-fe7be4hc5z]

​@@McCarthy-kg3yolies. Do not fool people

[@Doctor_possum]

My thought as well. What a sweet angel.

[@rheafonfabre]

Many autistic people can handle their own hygiene care.

[@Joeysaladslover]

@@McCarthy-kg3yoimagine making a fake account just to post this sad shit💀 make a friend dude

[@philbert85]

Not a stain on a white shirt means you do nothing to get dirty. Your logic is missing

[@loramaclean476]

He is precious!!! His eye contact brings tears to my eyes. He's totally communicating.

[@WebsterCS2]

Women likes weak people. It's weird. This is not a person contributing to society in any way. This is tax payers dollars down the drain. He is not alone. Over 80% of people are just being in the way, doing work judt to get by. Not doing anything for society. But he is special.

[@igame2505]

no hes not

[@allinix7intp]

​@@igame2505Hater.

[@Tummyachesurvior]

@@igame2505 Hi! I have some great recommendations for books and media about Autism so you can educate yourself! :) Don’t want to remain ignorant.

[@lcl3549]

Heavy metal detox 🙏

[@EnderLark]

Not going to do anything.

[@danimatt100]

Gabe's energy is incredible to watch. When he looks at her, or his Mom, the stare is so powerful. I know very little about non verbal autism but I know a LOT about human energy as an empath. And Gabe is so amazing in so many ways. God bless you lil Buddy. ❤

[@endlessroad6937]

You can tell she really sees him and he loves her for that. That close eye contact unblinking was a beautiful human moment. ❤

[@taylorkurtz1513]

I love how she looks at him, with such care

[@jamespremo5049]

My Wife and I have a 22 YO Son that is blind, delayed, and on the spectrum. He certainly has his favorites and has inspired others to go fields that involve helping those with Special Needs. People like Gabby are a blessing.

[@tarsschley5771]

It looks like he was overwhelmed with emotion. Did not want to cry. He sits so close to her.❤

[@michelebeal3616]

My nephew is non verbal autistic he is 3 and he has never looked me in the eye or touched me... But he has been going to therapy and like a month ago I went to my sister place and he walked right up to me and like climbed up my leg wanting me to pick him up and looked me in the eye... It was the most affectionate thing ever and made me cry he literally plays with me now he loves trains so we play train set all the time and he holds my hand and will make grunting sound at me now it's incredible what therapy has done to help him...

[@sharonlefebure3892]

What a handsome boy. He’s lucky to be surrounded by people that love him and who he loves.

[@alimaepatt17]

Just as he is🎉🙏✨

[@Xxbrokenheart808xX]

He is very handsome! And yes so loved ❤

[@Mattnoble80]

It’s so good to see him being out and about not left inside, his exposure will help him throughout life but you can tell he missed her

[@mistyredyard3078]

Bless you Gabe you are truly a blessing hugs 😊

[@selfloveandgrowth]

Omg! Look how much he’s grown. I’m in tears!! ❤😍

[@Autismpodcast27]

I have disability’s gabe I’m so proud of u are becoming a wonderful young man ❤

[@george_2172]

God bless you and Gabe both and May you both continue to do amazing things 🙏

[@Just-wiggling-thru-life]

God bless you! I do as well ❤🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@dawnhasbroken6304]

Its like he is downloading his affection directly to her soul.

[@jennifermyers66]

GET THAT MAN SOME 🥧 😂....AND HE WILL SNAP RIGHT OUTTA IT😂

[@solitaire8585]

The eye contact means so much, and she clearly knows. My son has autism, and he loves with his whole heart and trusts with his whole being. There is a beauty and purity to how people with autism see things. His mother, and I haven’t been together for some time, though we remain very close, and agree that it was meant to be for us to be together for that short time to give our son to the world.