I didn’t realize the severity of my problem until my parents placed me in a group home. They said that I would be happier living with children my own age. But I wanted to continue living with my parents and was confused why they didn’t want me to live with them. I was told by a doctor in the group home that I was autistic and needed special training. He said that I would be taught to function well enough to become an independent individual and a useful member of society. I was happy to hear that, but I still would have been happier living with my parents. The other children in the group home were also autistic, but otherwise I had nothing in common with them. I kept to myself, and looked forward to speaking on the phone to my parents and meeting them on weekends.
I am now an adult and work for a contractor stuffing envelopes. It makes me feel proud that I can earn a living without depending on federal welfare. My boss likes my work and has given me two raises since I started the job I still live in the group home and still have no interest in socializing with the other residents. My dad is my favorite person, he answers all my questions, but I also love my mom even though she has less patience with me. I love music and am always plugged in to my radio, and I can name almost every popular music album and its artist and songs. The people that know me think I am a human music directory; it makes me feel good to be so talented.
Being autistic does not block off the normal need to be an important part of this world. I want to be more than an envelope stuffer, and I have the innate talent to rise above that simple occupation. My mind is a good one, I have a remarkable memory and can learn almost anything well. One of the problems an autistic person has is a lack of social skills; having those kind of skills are very important in order to climb the ladder of success. I need a big brother, someone who has the social skills and know— how to integrate me into the high tech work force. It is there I will become more than an envelope stuffer; I will become a highly skilled and important individual in a competitive world. And my autism will be seen by my fellow employees as a blessing in disguise.
Retired and single recluse
Tags: Autism
