10 Things I Don't Say About Autism But Want To

1. Please stop asking if I'm like Rain Man. No, I'm not. And I do not count cards. 2. I suck at math; savants are rare and I'm not one of them. 3. Staring at person who is obviously stressed out and are covering their ears is rude. (I thought *I* was the one who had bad social skills...) 4. On another note, quit staring at a parent with a kid in meltdown mode; if you want to say something; say "Can I help?". 5. Don't assume I can't hear you when I'm with somebody else. I can, and I'm an adult. Please address me, even if I seem "odd". Sometimes I just need a little help. 6. I'm not stupid; it takes me longer to learn some things. 7. When I hurt your feelings, tell me! I don't know I did. 8. Please, please don't pat me on the back; especially on my left side. It scares me, I can't see you and dislike it. 9. When I ask you to repeat yourself, I am trying to make sure I heard you correctly. 10. I try to say things that interest you, but can't tell if it's boring you. Say something, or I won't stop.