Published on 12, July, 2020
There's another question that sprang to mind this morning.
What defines your autism?
I have noticed that most of the posts on the forum appear to be about our vulnerabilities.
So, is our autism defined by our vulnerabilities?
Certainly the sensitivities and communication difficulties can make us more vulnerable to stress and isolation.
Any positives anyone?
I'm still thinking about that one.
There is a lot of food for thought once we have obtained recognition either personally or professionally.
'Thinking' about this thread this morning I've thought of some more.
I notice this generally on the forum:
Thinking - we think a lot about everything.
Analysis - we analyse a LOT.
Originality - there are many original thinkers on this forum. People who don't accept 'the norm' but think for themselves.
Positivity - we all descend into 'slough of despond' sometimes, but generally I think a lot of us here have a fighting spirit and despite the very many setbacks look for the good in things.
Because of my age, I value the younger generations' input here.
I've learnt new words, new terms, new ways of perceiving myself.
Thank you all.
Nice assessment.
I would add:
Learning never ends.
I signed up for BSc Math at OU
Recently?
I did some OU studies but unfortunately the value expired.
I hadn't realised that the points you get aren't available for 'life' in order to build a degree.
If you've just done that: all the best.
I remember that maths is 'your thing'.
I too can struggle with positivity, though I'm trying to be easier on myself since discovering I'm autistic.
Merry Xmas to you mate, and to all who enter this saloon
Well, I'd love for you to pull up a stool so I can buy you a drink in this saloon and so we can have a good old fashioned honest chat. You seem like a good'un to me.....definitely "my type of people.". Your words ring with a rare and joyous authentic honesty.
Merry Christmas brother.
Thanks for that. I find these occasional little "boosts" very supportive. I know it is sad to admit most of my reminiscent thoughts really struggle with positivity.
Hi, I always enjoy hearing about people with autism who can overcome life's challenges. You didn't come across as boastful to me.
I was made redundant three consecutive times from fabrication/fitting positions when I decided to work for myself. I knew it would have to be a type of service work where I would not have to rely on a constant stream of high value supplies while remaining independent of human input to my service. I also needed to keep my practical skills level active. Enter, tree stump grinding. I bought my first second-hand diesel-powered stump grinder. Until my recent retirement last year---that's right, into my mid-seventies---this job had kept me going for 20+ years. I only write about this as a suggestion for you who has a similar skill level. It occurred to me my writing style is probably interpreted as being boastful. That is not my wish, plan, design, or intention. It is merely a suggestion flavoured with some background details. I believe this kind of misunderstanding has been a critical hurdle in most of my past experiences. I try to be open to my own detriment as it is usually misinterpreted. I've hit many social barriers over many years and view this website as my "last chance saloon".
I wasn't made to sit in front of TV and eat crisps, in a zombie lair.
I need to flex all muscles now and then or I despair.
It sends shadows of no prospects away
And I can smile greeting new day.
Well done and sorry to hear that (about prospects).
You can flex your brain muscles more now