It’s Monday, the beginning of a new week, and you need words of motivation to start your week off right.

This week’s words of motivation: Don’t Be Normal, Be Extraordinary!

In this short TED talk video, we are reminded on the importance of being different in a world that demands normalcy.

Faith Jegede, a writer and PhD student, shares with us her story of growing up with two autistic brothers (Remi and Samuel); and how they taught her to be extraordinary.

Remi is speechless but he communicates unconditional love and has never told a lie. Samuel has an impeccable memory and he can remember things that no ordinary human being can. Remi and Samuel do not conform to society’s version of normalcy, but Faith tells us that they do not need to because they are extraordinary!

My favorite quote from her TED talk video was this:

“A boy (Remi) who saw the world without prejudice a human that never lied.”

If that what it takes to make the world a better place, then we should all be autistic. Because of this video I gained a greater appreciation for autism awareness and I am reaffirmed that being normal or conforming to the world standards of normalcy is not a good thing.

So this week don’t be normal; be extraordinary! Because “the pursuit of normality is the ultimate sacrifice of potential. The chance for greatness, for progress, and for change dies the moment we try to be like someone else.” –Faith Jegede

If you see a person with autism, tell that person that he or she is extraordinary!

If you wish to see more of Faith Jegede’s TED talks go to: www.ted.com/speakers/faith_jegede

To follow her blogs on writing, go to: www.thefaithjegedeblog.tumblr.com

You can also follow Faith on Twitter @faithjegede