"Simply making myself aware of others has remarkably improved my social life. People accept me much faster now that I ignore them less."

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Source: John Elder Robison (2011). “Be Different: Adventures of a Free-Range Aspergian with Practical Advice for Aspergians, Misfits, Families & Teachers”, p.128, Broadway Books

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John Elder Robison

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John Elder Robison is an author and advocate known for his insights on autism, particularly through his memoir 'Look Me in the Eye'.

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"In the past, when people criticized me for asking unexpected questions, I felt ashamed. Now I realize that normal people are acting in a superficial and often false manner. So rather than let them make me feel bad, I express my annoyance. It's my way of trying to strike a blow for logic and rationality."

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"Saying you "have" something implies that it's temporary and undesirable. Asperger's isn't like that. You've been Aspergian as long as you can remember, and you'll be that way all your life. It's a way of being, not a disease."

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