Simple is okay

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My life is fairly simple. Not in the sense that nothing complicated happens, but in the sense that it’s made of individually simple things.

For example I don’t drive and my ability for independent travel is fairly minimal. I’m not going to be taking myself to a gig or festival, or for a swim.

There are few meals I can make myself. I can’t boil an egg. No one is comfortable with me stood anywhere near a lit stove, sharp knife or a kettle. No glass or ceramic bowl survives more than a few months before it has a gravity related experience.

I’m not going to understand what’s happening in many social situations and even when I do, I find most ‘fancy’ things rather boring and off putting. I’d much rather go watch Bluey or write code.

I hit a lot of hard limits to my ability and it can sometimes surprise people. There’s a reason friends hold my arm crossing a busy car park or walking near roads.

This is all okay.

I used to really grieve for the things my body and brain couldn’t do. But these days I’m pretty okay with it.

I can enjoy a silly movie like Paddington more than anyone I know. I react to ‘everyday’ experiences like riding a ferry with joy and excitement. I can get lost in a sensory toy and I bounce around with delight in my Tigger onesie.

My world mostly exists in a handful of places and that’s okay too.

While my world is made of simple things it has a deep complexly of its own. I thrive when I’m being helpful and making meaningful things.

Millions of people use things I’ve made everyday; but the real satisfaction comes when i help other people thrive.

I never dreamed of the life I have today. It’s joyful, bouncy, productive and adventurous. I am grateful to the amazing people who build alongside me, protect me and encourage me. I’m excited for the future we have together.

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Spaced Out & Smiling is about exploring the fun side of Autism, and trying to understand what it means to be Autistically Happy.

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Jamie: @JamieKnight
Lion: @Lickr