This article puts a voice out when it would otherwise be impossible. You see, I am autistic and unable to speak using my mouth. This leaves so much I am not able to say. Listening does do a disservice when you can’t join a conversation. Like you, I have things to say and questions to ask. There are many times I hear something funny and I want to laugh too, but I can’t. Lately, all the people I pass in the halls say hi looking at my aide; this puts me in an awful mood. It makes me feel not seen. I am a thinking and feeling person, too. All I want is to get some friends that like me as I am. I am quick to say all of you are the kindest to me, but hope to truly get to know more about you. Looks can be deceiving, and I hope to better explain.

I have an idea—let’s do an exercise. Try putting yourself in my shoes. Stay with me—imagine that you can only look and listen.

No speaking, no handwriting, and no facial expressions that match your current thoughts. Easy, you may be thinking. I won’t ask what anxiety this brings to you, let alone embarrassment you may be feeling. Lastly, see how long you can do this. You are doing so well. Remember, no speaking, so don’t ask to be excused to use the restroom. Doing this gives you a peek into my life and others like me. Please question yourself about what you know about people that can’t speak. Slow down and listen to all of our words. Many of us are actually similar to you. We need you to put our looks aside. Speaking using my mouth is so hard for me. Talking also directs the face to reflect your feelings. Luck would have it that my face is only in the neutral zone.

Previous thoughts on this need to be erased and all reconfigured. Ready to ask for your support; late is most always better than never. Ask us questions. We always have something to add to this amazing world that we coexist together in.