In a world that is always changing, it’s important for everyone to understand and include people who are different. This is especially true for autistic people, who often struggle with the expectations and social rules of our society. As an adult with autism, I can tell you how important it is for people to understand and be empathetic towards both people with autism and those around them. This understanding can bridge the gap between us and lead to a world where we all can do well.
Life can be challenging for many autistics, including me. The world can sometimes feel overwhelming with its bright lights, loud noises, and fast social interactions. What might be easy for others, like making eye contact or understanding non-verbal communication, can be really hard for us. It’s important to know that these differences in how we see and interact with the world are not choices, but a part of who we are.
However, we should not think that all autistic people are the same. While we often face unique challenges and have different needs, not every autistic person experiences the same problems or has the same needs. It’s important to remember that each autistic person is not just autistic, but also has many other qualities that affect their behavior, communication, and appearance.
Understanding and empathy from the people around us are incredibly valuable. Our family, friends, colleagues, and teachers might sometimes get frustrated with our unpredictable reactions or unusual behaviors. But it’s important for them to realize that these behaviors are not about disrespect or being difficult on purpose, but simply a reflection of how our brains work.
When the people around us make an effort to understand us and adapt to our needs, it makes a big difference. This doesn’t mean we need special treatment all the time, but small adjustments can often make our lives much easier. The understanding others show, like being patient when we get overwhelmed or communicating in a way that makes us comfortable, can really help.
However, it’s not just up to non-autistic people to adapt to the needs of autistic people. While understanding and empathy are important, we also need to learn to navigate the world around us and follow social rules when we can. Promoting mutual understanding is crucial, but it should be based on shared responsibility.
We should also not underestimate the challenges and difficulties that family members, friends, and caregivers of people with autism face. Even though understanding is important, we should recognize that taking care of someone with autism can be physically and emotionally exhausting. We should not put all the burden of adaptation on the people around us without fully appreciating the challenges they experience.
In summary, the power of understanding and empathy for people with autism and their surroundings cannot be emphasized enough. It’s also crucial to see the differences within the group of autistic people and accurately represent the shared responsibilities in relationships between people with autism and those around them.
This opens the door to a world where we can all thrive, no matter our neurological differences. If we embrace these simple but essential values, we can work together to create a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The European Autist 