Life As An Alien

My father would fondly call me an "alien" when I was a child - I guess he knew I was autistic before I did. I've always seen the world a little differently. Growing up, books were my refuge - they shielded me from a world where I often felt misunderstood. You see, I've always been a curious child, constantly questioning things. But when I asked too many questions in class, teachers and students saw me as difficult, rather than just inquisitive.

Social norms have always been a mystery to me. I didn't understand why my friends were so obsessed with tracking down every detail about a boy in a band they liked, or why another friend loved shopping so much. The whole concept of dating and flirting? Completely abstract to me.

As I got older, books alone couldn't protect me from feeling lonely and isolated. But then I found music - the one thing that truly understands me. When I play my piano or cello, it's as if the instruments are responding to my emotions. The music I create mirrors how I feel.

It was only a few years ago that I was diagnosed with Asperger's. Finally, I had an explanation for why I'd always felt like an alien in this world. The diagnosis was illuminating - I could understand why I was so misunderstood. It was such a relief to find someone who finally got me.

After my diagnosis, I dove into learning about Asperger's. I read everything I could, feeling like I was reading my own memoirs. Authors like Temple Grandin and Tony Attwood became my heroes. Connecting with other Aspies have also been a game-changer. Knowing I'm not alone has made me feel less lonely.

These days, I embrace who I am. Sure, being an Aspie comes with its challenges, but it's also a big part of what makes me unique. I may process the world differently, but that's okay. I'm proud to be part of this wonderful, misunderstood community. In fact, I'm proud to be an alien - we autistics are a special breed, and we're here to change the world.

#Aspie #Neurodivergent