Yes, world, I’m autistic and I’m proud of it. Call me Aspie Extraordinaire, wonder girl of the neurotypical world. I was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome on Friday March 2, 2001, just two months before I graduated with my B.A. in English at UBC. I am a unique individual with extraordinary talents.
I am a poet first and foremost. I have been writing poetry all of my life. I am proud of my talent for writing poetry. It gives me the freedom to express how I truly feel through the written word. Writing gives me the opportunity to communicate with the world.
I am a breath of fresh air. I am open, honest and transparent with people. I have no hidden words, meanings or agendas behind what I say. I say exactly what I mean and I mean exactly what I say. I am clear in how I communicate with others. I use precise language to express my intentions.
I am an individual. I march to the tune of my own drum. I follow what I feel passionate about, regardless of whether it is popular with others. I am unique in my own fashion styles. I dress for comfort first, practicality second, and fashion last. I do not go for name brands because they are popular.
My view of thinking is unique to the world. I see the world as mainly black and white. My literal view of things makes me see the individuals rather than the masses. And I can sense when people are giving me a run around on issues. You will not see me going for scams that other people so easily fall for. My personal moral values tells me what is wrong and what is right.
I have many interests and passions. I read widely on a variety of topics. You will find me a most engaging conversationalist. I listen to what others say, take in their views and balance them out to see all sides of an issue. I will not make judgments until I see how others view the other sides. I make an effort to try to understand where others are coming from. I keep an open mind about the world. I believe that in keeping an open mind, one can see things more clearly than one who judges and questions everything.
I have an amazing memory for odd facts and dates. I remember birthdays of friends and family with great ease. My encyclopedic knowledge helps me to argue facts about issues that I’ve been reading about.
I am focused in my work. I pay attention to detail. I focus on my work tasks until I have finished them. My focus is an asset in the workplace. It helps me to get work done in a timely manner. I am punctual. I pay attention to getting to places in time and not wasting the valuable time of others. Being autistic makes me who I am. I would not have it any other way.
- T. K. Torme
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This is the third in an ongoing Vancouver Is Awesome series written by people on the Autism spectrum. View the archive HERE.
