Somehow this picture sums up how I view the way autistic people are undervalued. If they took the time to understand us, they would see autism as a gift.

1/ As I can’t read social cues very well, I judge a person by the factual content of what they say, thus I don’t suffer fools gladly, and you had better know your facts if you want to impress me. By the way this explains why I don’t read fiction.

2/ Honesty becomes my most valued attribute in a person, and you don’t have to be a genius, but you do have to admit what you know and don’t know.

3/ I am aware I am not most people’s idea of a fun person to speak to, as I make obscure connections between subjects, and I like to speak about what I know, or my specialist subjects.

4/ I am the last person you would sit next to on a bus, I don’t know why, but I guess I radiate disinterest, as I have no need to compete or impress others, as I have my own little world that completely absorbs me.

5/ I believe I am creative and see things in a way others don’t. I like bright or solid colours, and objects that show good design, be that modern or historic.

6/ I think I am funny, but as it takes a lot to get to know me, so most people will never see my funny side.

7/ I don’t like social gatherings, where people are out to impress.

8/ I don’t value leadership as much as being in a team of equals. I do value individual genius, when shared unconditionally, I don’t like horse trading or people taking without giving back.

9/ I believe I am a good team player, capable of collaboration, consensus and compromise, but I won’t support what I don’t believe, nor will I be herded or threatened to do something that’s not good for the team.

10/ I value loyalty and want to be rewarded fairly for my efforts and my ideas.

Stephen Gray

22 September 2018