Let your true self shine! Except me, I can’t do that!

Actually, I do let my true self shine and I get into a ton of trouble because of it. I come by it honestly. I can’t always mask my autistic traits. Pending on the day, these traits can be overwhelming even for myself. Here’s the truth, it can be detrimental to the mental health for those on the autistic spectrum to continuously mask so that others can be comfortable around us. We shouldn’t have to mask so that others can be comfortable.

When facing a crisis and recovering from trauma it becomes especially difficult to mask. And when this occurs trouble usually follows. In my case, I believe the trauma that I have suffered has caused a regression in my autistic traits and my ability to cope and mask. It has become increasingly important for me on this journey to take the negative things said to me and these negative experiences and speak truth to myself. And somehow be OK when those around me don’t quite see it. But I have to speak truth to myself and speak truth to power. I have been in therapy long enough to have a pretty good understanding of myself and my limitations. The incessant gaslighting that comes my way is traumatic enough!

It’s worth the fight

Knowing who you are is the foundation of a fulfilling life. It’s the unwavering confidence in your values, strengths, and passions. Self-Discovery is a journey, not a destination. And while I don’t typically bring my faith into what I write, I will say this, my core values and beliefs center upon this one thing I believe to be true, and it is the one thing that keeps me grounded. To know who I am but more importantly WHOSE I am. Being grounded in my faith causes me to reflect upon my identity in Christ. Even if the world were to stand against me, I have spent a lifetime growing to understand who I am and whose I am, and that foundation being in Christ. I know my Creator and my Creator knows me. It is liberating to know that our Creator knows who we are. This is especially true when those around us don’t.

So to that I say

Unapologetically own your story! It is your story, your experience, and your truth.

Your authenticity is the greatest gift to yourself and others. It is a gift to the world. When we can take the parts of who we are and share who we are to others, it is a gift. In a society that often encourages conformity, dare to challenge the status quo and join me to cultivate a society that values diversity, inclusivity, and acceptance.