Christine Horner, copy editor

Many of us have heard similar narratives about autism: its deficits, its barriers, its struggles. Sure, being autistic isn’t easy. It would be nice to not have to mask my true personality every time I set foot outside of my house. I would also like to not hyperventilate from just thinking of crowded places. But I’m here to tell you that being autistic is more than a trauma narrative. Sometimes, for me, it’s wonderful and I have a list of autistic joys to prove it.

Special interests keep me going. I have so many that it’s hard to keep track of them, but the one that’s been the most consistent is art. I’ve been painting and drawing since grade school. Art museums on a slow weekday are my happy place. As a teenager, I saved up my allowance for art magazine subscriptions, flew to Atlanta and back by myself for a summer youth painting program and signed up for art classes from local instructors after school instead of doing extracurriculars. There’s something so rewarding to me about finishing a drawing or painting — even if it isn’t perfect. With AuDHD (autism and ADHD), finishing projects doesn’t usually happen quickly. So when I have something to show for my effort AND it’s related to my special interest, I can’t help but feel proud of myself.

Trying new foods and restaurants is something I’ve enjoyed for years now. This may surprise some of you, considering how many autistic folks have sensory needs related to taste and texture. On the flip side, some of us are more sensory-seeking when it comes to food. I rarely order the same thing when I return to a restaurant and my order is different every time I pull up to Caribou Coffee. I’m sure to take you up on a restaurant recommendation no matter the cuisine. I don’t care how long of a drive it is — if it’s as good as you say, I’ll get there. I understand that this can be a common interest to many people, not just autistic folks, but it resonates deeply with me because of my sensory needs. 

Just like pretty much everyone else, I enjoy great friendships. Making and maintaining relationships was incredibly difficult for me for most of my life because I can’t interpret body language or facial expressions. It feels so great to find someone who understands, who listens to me and accepts me the way I am. I especially love getting to know someone, then finding out that we get along so well because we’re both neurodivergent. 

What brings me the most autistic joy is seeing other autistic people be accepted. I tear up when I hear about parents passionately advocating for their autistic children. I get goosebumps when I see autistic adults being celebrated by their families and loved ones. I want us to be able to stim in public and gush about our special interests without fear of shame or alienation. 

Being autistic in a neurotypical world is hard, but it doesn’t have to be. I hope you keep this list in mind, whether you’re autistic or not, and that it reminds you of the things that bring you joy.