I've heard over the years people who claim to be autistic saying that they like their autism, and that there's a certain coolness about being an "Aspie." It holds advantages over being neurotypical. They wouldn't swap. It's almost a boast. I've never understood this.
I'm on the spectrum and diagnosed as high-functioning. I hold down a decent job, and have done so for many years. However, I've seen my colleagues be promoted past me and had to accept the situation because of my social interaction and communication challenges. Work has never been easy, and every day has been a challenge, and I long for retirement, when I won't have to interact with people. When I reflect back on my life and recall the missed opportunities in terms of personal relationships, and friendships, the unhappiness at attending what should be fun social events, the meltdowns, the stimming; how can anyone want this situation?
I've now recently learnt that my grandson is autistic, not high-functioning and probably non-verbal. It will be a challenge for him for the rest of his life, and for those who care for him. I also now have a further issue to deal with in that I can't help thinking that I'm possibly the reason he's autistic.
In no way, shape or form is it, or could it ever be cool.
