I’ve learned so much, and it took only a few minutes. What a treat.

I had no idea about masking, even though I’ve been doing it for as long as I remember being alive. Aaaah, it’s so draining. When I was younger (in my 20s) I used to think there’d come a time when I’d finally come out of my shell. I’m pushing 40 now, but the shell is only thicker, the cave deeper, the walls taller. Instead of dreaming that one day I’ll be “like everyone else”, I’m contemplating the day I’ll cease to exist. Funny.

Please talk to someone about it. Living with autism doesn't have to be horrible. Even if you can't change everything to fit right now you can always take small steps in the right direction. Eventually those steps add up to a better life.