Several months ago, an author that I know in the autism community posted that autism is hard. Without a doubt it can sometime be. It does not matter where one falls on the spectrum. There are challenges regardless of communication abilities. Even though it can be a barrier, certain aspects of life are tough for autistic people. These difficulties can make life challenging to live through.

There are so many things that the average person does not see about an autistic person they meet in public. These unseen factors make life just hard for them. Even getting to a public place can be extremely challenging for them. Being there with others is one of the hardest things. It makes life very difficult for them to manage. Leaving their safe space can be the hardest. Just getting out the door and on their way to the destination is challenging.

For a long time, I had to start realizing that it was normal for things to come harder for me. This was because I am autistic. What was more difficult was speaking up. Sometimes, doing what was needed for problems to be solved required this. I realized I did not have to live in fear. I can devise a plan to voice a concern. I tell those who needed to hear it. Granted, it couldn’t always bring a perfect situation. Still, it would ultimately be better for me in the end. This helped me avoid the fear of potential failures. It was better than enduring uncertainty if I was not brave and honest about my actions or needs.

Granted, this has not always been easy. I still think at times of those in the autism community who can’t communicate in the ways that I do. Even though I can articulate, there can be times when a social barrier can come into play. But I have worked so hard over the past decade specifically to get where I am today. Many changes over the past year have required bravery from me. I have had to step out of my comfort zone more than I was comfortable with. I strive to be better with things, even when it is not easy. I also know that others are there to support me when challenges arise.

Sometimes, it takes talking it out and doing what is right, no matter how much it hurts. I have to do the right thing. I must push through what is hard for me, even as things like anxiety and fear can hold me back. Pushing through that fear and doing what is needed can seem simple to the general observer. Still, reaching the point to do what is needed can be so difficult. Some just can’t understand unless they walk a similar walk.

I have always been told that being autistic is not easy. The challenges I have are in no way easy to bear. Still, you will never see someone as dedicated as an autistic person. They push themselves time and time again, no matter how hard it is for them. They strive to do the things they want to achieve their goal and mission.