This is an emotional subject for me. I don’t typically like to think about it as it hurts. In my nearly 28 yrs living, or the 10 years since graduating from high school. I have gone to a community college, a university, and worked a total of 4 jobs. The community college I was at for 3 semesters. The university, 5 semesters, which ended in me dropping out because my anxiety issues became too great. 3 of the 4 jobs lasted no longer than 3 months. Not from my lack of trying, but because the anxiety I experienced from them finally crashed down on me.

After I had my 6 yr old, I finally decided to stop trying to work, so I could devote my time and energy to him. I know it might sound cruel to the outside person, but I’m thankful for their Autism. I have been able to stay at home with them and really nurture them without anyone batting an eye, even as they became school age. I think this is one of the biggest reasons everyone compliments us that we have such happy kids.

This next school year, they will both be at school full time. While other stay at home moms talk about going back to work, finishing their degrees, or some even furthering education, I have felt this weight about the fact that I can’t really do any of these. I’ve spoken about going back to college, but with some recent increases in stress, I’ve realized I can’t handle that. The same can be said about rejoining the work force. That’s without looking at the fact I have no real work experience.

I’m very happy with the progress I have made with regards to this website, the new ASAN chapter I’ve started, and in general promoting the Neurodiversity message. In the coming months, I’ll be unveiling other work that I am doing within the ASAN organization. I work hard at all of this and somehow, I can handle it. One friend of mine suggests it’s because I have passion for it and it’s all telecommuting.

To put it simply, when I need a break, I can take one. I need breaks much more often than the normal person. I’m lucky to have a very understanding husband. He reminds me that people without my issues can’t hold jobs. That I’m still contributing to our household even if it’s not financially. I’m grateful for this. It still leaves me wishing that I could find a real job that could be as understanding.

I’d like to say Happy Thanksgiving to all my American readers. For those that don’t have Thanksgiving, I’d still like to extend to you an invitation to celebrate it. Thanksgiving, I feel, is a very energizing day. It is a day to Give Thanks for all we have. This is something I feel should not be left only to this holiday.

My thoughts for today could and should extend to our normal lives. In some families, they celebrate by everyone around the table saying what they are thankful for. I have to say, I never understood or liked this tradition. Mainly because everyone always tried to outdo the person before them.

Instead, I’d like others to try this. Come up with how they can be thankful for you. I feel as an Aspie, sometimes, I don’t give myself enough credit. I have been told this by those around me. Now, I’m not saying to be selfish and not tell those you love that you’re thankful for them. But it is a good time and sit back to realize what good you have to offer others.

Happy Thanksgiving. My hope is that you are thankful for me and this website.