To be honest, it's been one of the most difficult things about this autism experience for our family, feeling judged and marginalized by the very people who ostensibly ought to be the most sensitive to it because their experience is in many ways very similar. I completely agree that it would be much better if we listened to each other and worked together, rather than splitting into two factions.

And, you are the first and only person on the spectrum (who is largely able to function in the world) that I've met in 20 years who has been at all sympathetic, reasonable, or kind about this particular issue. (I know several kind and reasonable people on the spectrum, but we haven't been in this type of discussion). As I said, I completely see the value in and embrace neurodiversity, and the encouragement of acceptance, but being militant about it to the point of not recognizing what others are experiencing is a problem. I hope that you will bring awareness of this to your friends and community as something that needs improvement because it's been incredibly hurtful and pervasive.

Thanks for being you!