How can you tell when an autistic person’s heart is healing, and shifting toward self-acceptance? As I trade the heavy armor of hypervigilant self-preservation for the spinny sundress of safe authenticity, each step forward may seem like a step back. • I may look “more autistic,” as I embrace the calming power of natural movements. • I may request more support, as I recognize the cost of facing challenges alone. • I may react more suddenly to defend my eyes and ears from sights and sounds. When this first started to happen, I was accused of faking it, as if I were molding myself to match my
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