“We are always listening. We’re highly developed human beings who don’t need speech as the only way to communicate” - What an impactful message about autism from Matteo to the world! Being diagnosed with autism at 18 months, Matteo is nonverbal and therefore was unable to share his thoughts. At age eleven and a half, he was introduced to learn communication through a letter board which turned out to be a life-changing moment for Matteo. He was now able to share his thoughts by spelling words. After finding his voice Matteo has brilliantly shared his creative talents as an author, poet and artist. He has authored 5 books, all written one letter at a time by pointing on a letter board and transcribed by his mom, Annette. Matteo is a mission to be a voice for the silent ones. He advocates through numerous individual talks and has been invited to speak at AutismOne, Mainly Mozart, USAAA and even to the medical staff at the renowned Mayo Clinic. Matteo also received the Temple Grandin Award in 2017. Annette’s enduring support and encouragement have helped Matteo to fulfill his aspirations.

At what age did you start taking an interest in writing? How do you usually come up with ideas for your writing projects?M: When I was old enough to enjoy book that were being read to me. I wondered how those thoughts came to be on the page. I loved books and stories because they’d take me on adventures that calmed and entertained me, especially during my transition into autism. I guess I was about two or three years old. I’m happy to write so others can learn and imagine, too.
I experience something and if it stays with me as a strong vibration, I write about it. These could be adventures, music, art, food or something going on with a loved one. When I write about it, my energy reboots and I feel relief as I translate vibrational memories into words I can share with others.

What is your own favorite work so far and why?M: I love writing about nature and music and how they affect my soul. If I must pick only one, I guess it’s a poem called “bellowing waters.” It was the first one I wrote about nature. Mom and I had hiked to a waterfall in palm springs, California, where we sat and ate a sandwich. It just spewed out of my finger and through my letterboard. I was surprised how it affected so many people. Many went into shock, I think, because they didn’t know I could write in such depth and use analogies like a pro to express myself. It was fun to hear the responses and see the faces after they read it.

Bellowed the waterfall to the stream,
Understand that we are one and the same.
Different forms we take
But of the same energy made.
Now you flow as gently as a newborn baby sleeps,
Down to the valley to nourish life itself.
Will you have the power to kiss all those in need?
I am here for you in strength and plenty
If you will only call on me for help.
I am the source of your abundance,
And the way to end the thirst of the world.

What message do you promote in your speeches and presentations?M: I want the world to know the truth about autism and what’s going on inside our thoughts, hearts and minds. We are always listening. We’re highly developed human beings who don’t need speech as the only way to communicate. Autism is a motor skill issue, not an intellectual disability. We are so capable of contributing to society in meaningful ways…ways beyond the neuro-typical imagination. And finally, we deserve an education. I want to expand the mind of society and teach them to think outside the box when it comes to inclusion and acceptance of those who live lives outside of the neuro-typical norm.

What challenges did you face during your school years? How did you face these challenges?M: Well, the main problem when I was in special ed at the public school was intense boredom and not having things explained to me. If I really wanted to learn things when I was young, I eavesdropped on as many conversations as possible. In a room filled with people, like a restaurant, I could zoom in on a single conversation while blocking out all others, so I learned a lot about what’s going on in the world.
I was only in school through second grade. I was in a neuro-typical classroom, full inclusion with an aide my parents provided, for first and second grade. Prior to that, I was in special ed. I have been homeschooled since 3rd grade. It was fun, challenging and frustrating all at once. I knew so much but no one could tell. Talk about an advanced course in patience! I had enrolled but didn’t want to take that course. How was I ever going to receive the intellectual stimulation I craved? I admit that I felt hopeless about my education until I was 11 1/2 years old. But I was surrounded by people who loved me. It was their love and nurturing, and a lot of praying, that got me through those times.
My parents said they chose my name specifically for me, Matteo. It means “gift from god.” I was always loved and valued as a member of my family. With love, support and people who believe in me, I know I can do anything.

What are your other hobbies?M: I love being a boy scout and all that’s involved with that, like hiking, camping, learning and earning merit badges, and just being included with my scout friends. I love swimming, basketball, games like Yahtzee and scrabble and working out at the gym. I love art and music, too! They’re really important to me.

What is your favorite place to visit? What do you love about that place?M: I love visiting Minnesota. My mom’s side of the family lives there and we have so many friends, too. The support and love we receive there feels really good. We do many presentations in Minnesota.
Now, as far as pure relaxation energy, it’s Hawaii! Kauai is my favorite island, but I love Maui, too. I love all of them, really.

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who are interested in writing?M: Go for it! Do it! Don’t prepare so much in advance; just let it flow out of your soul. When I think too much, writer’s block happens and I am not creative in my writing. Because I spell on a letter board to communicate, writer’s block comes across as my finger not being exact in pointing, and if that’s the case, we (mom and I) stop and continue another time, and that’s ok. It just means you’re already a pro because I’ve heard it happens to all writers at some time or another! Think of a fun experience you had. Why was it fun? How did you experience the fun in your body? Can you describe those details? That’s creative writing. Better yet, can you liken it to something else that may be entertaining to others. Analogies are my favorite descriptive tool. Keep your eyes open for things to write about. We experience life so differently than most, and in this case, that’s “literally “an advantage. (haha)

Any special message for our community?M: We are limited only by the barriers placed in our paths by those who haven’t looked beyond their way of existing in this life. Restrictions imposed upon us do not come from within us. So, no matter what challenges present themselves in our lives, know that our innate creativity can bring us peace and happiness. The power is inside us.