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What can I say about the subject? Regarding this, I’m careful to not pretend and be some sort of expert. My studies began just a few years ago. Among the things I’ve learned: it is neither a disease, nor can it be “cured,” nor should it be. Autism covers a wide spectrum, from individuals who are non-verbal and demand constant care, to those who seem quite “typical.” Indeed, a newer term popped up recently, “neurodiverse” as opposed to “neurotypical.”
Why do I have these factoids memorized? Because, you see, several years ago it was suggested (by someone with a fancy diploma on his wall) that your author just might be among those on the spectrum. I did not take this as an insult, indeed, the more I read up on it, the more various events of my life made sense. In school, in work, in relationships, there were stumbling blocks that I never realized were there. Trying to fit in was akin to removing a torx-bit screw with a Philips-head screwdriver. You might get there, with enough pain for both involved, or you may just give up in anger!
My place on the spectrum may not be “severe” but I’d argue it wrong to label any placement as being a bad thing. Certainly, it is true that my challenges aren’t those that some face. I can deal with crowds but cannot mingle. I can handle most decisions, but some will shut my circuitry down. Looking at someone in the eyes can sometimes cause true pain. I can rattle on and on about my favorite topics: care for a history of the Philco Corporation, the rise and fall of Studebaker-Packard, or my take on how the Vietnam War could be blamed on the assassin who took the life of Archduke Ferdinand? But catch me off guard on something I know nothing about, and you’ll set me to stuttering.
I most certainly don’t tell you this in a plea for sympathy, rather more to say, I’m one of so many who sometimes struggle along in a world where maybe we don’t fit so well. My case isn’t very unique at all, I’ve come to learn. There are times when I wish I learned all this at a young age, but then again, I wonder if being labeled with a “handicap” back in the day might have held me back? If there is a real lesson, for this month and ever forward, it is to simply have patience with those around you. Do you really know what makes them tick, what they’re going through, and what a challenge it might be to just have a conversation with you? In this respect, you should treat them just like anyone else. Give them grace, give them respect, and show them love. You treat everyone like that already, no? Yeah, I knew you did!
