Temple Grandin

Dear Claire Danes,

That Emmy you just won for your portrayal of Temple Grandin was well deserved. Scratch that, it goes way beyond deserved. It is not often that an actor becomes the character they are portraying, and you did just that.

I was lost in your manner of speech, so very like hers, and in your eye movements, so very like an autistic woman would behave. I was impressed. I was enthralled. 

You were mesmerizing. Not to mention how incredible this woman's life actually was, and how that story in itself was captivating. I could have watched you, and her story, for another two hours. 

Signed, now an even bigger fan, 

Bex

Temple Grandin is an autistic woman who has worked tirelessly to improve slaughterhouses across America. She redesigned them and made the process incredibly humane. One of the most poignant lines in the movie was when Claire Danes said "Nature is cruel, but we don't have to be." 

This woman, Temple, is inspiring. Despite the limitations imposed on her from her Autism (which she has never let define her), she has become a leading scientist in Animal Husbandry and is a professor at Colorado State University.  She invented a squeeze box to help calm her down, as just one example.  She's incredibly brilliant and the autistic influence on her mind allows her to see the world in pictures and then she connects them.  This is her gift. Well, this is what she made into a gift. 

I don't know how closely the movie followed her real life and family, but if it was anywhere close then her mother is one of the most incredible people I've yet to learn of.  Her aunt, as well. So many mothers and fathers out there are left clueless and hopeless when they first find out their child has autism.  Imagine what this was like in the 50's when any behavior outside of what was considered normal was labeled insane and you were quickly and quietly shipped to the nearest Sanitarium. 

Temple's mother and aunt were relentless in their love and assistance and challenge.  When Temple finally allows her mother to touch her, hug her, in the movie, the tears spilled over. A mother, unable to hug or touch the child she loves so dearly? What heartbreak! And what unconditional love from day one.

Temple is a fascinating woman. Wikipedia her. There's honestly too much to put on here. And then watch Temple Grandin. Kudos, Claire! Brava!