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We’re featuring “Slice of Life” conversations with Autistics of all ages — kids through adults — throughout April’s Autism Acceptance Month.

Our goal is to help TPGA readers understand that autistic people are people who have interesting, complicated lives and who are as diverse and varied as any other population united by a label.

We
are the people in each other’s neighborhoods, and the more we know
about each other — the more visible autistic people and children are —
the more common autism acceptance will be. That is our hope. 

Today we’re talking with rapier-witted TPGA editor Carol Greenburg, who among her many talents gets every Star Trek references we lob at her.

Do you have a website?

My company’s website is www.nyspecialneedsconsulting.com

What would you like a one-sentence description of yourself to say?

Tiny, powerful and a trip and a half. (You can tell I’m autistic because I was worried my response was all wrong because both didn’t include both a subject and predicate. 🙂 )

Do you have any autistic superpowers? What are they?

Perseveration, perseveration, perseveration. I strive to use these powers toward neutral ends at very least and for good when I’m particularly full of vim.

What are some situations that make you happy, or satisfied?

Watching my autistic son grow up with all the support he needs that didn’t exist when I was his age. It’s amazing to see the world changing for the better in so many ways in my own lifetime and look forward to the possibilities in his.

What are some situations that make you sad, or anxious? 

Witnessing the daily, casual cruelty that passes for normal behavior in interactions between powerful and less powerful people.

Are there specific topics you find particularly compelling?

Appropriate technology, Botanical prints, Special education law, Fair trade.

What are your preferred ways to be social? 

Small, quiet gatherings that include at least some people I already know.

What traits do you prize in a friend, or companion?

Forthrightness, I’m at a disadvantage when I’m in a social situation that require me to read between the lines. Compassion, the ability to forgive, and a good sense of humor are also qualities I admire.

Are there parts of your life you wish were easier?

I wish people would believe me when I say I’m autistic.

What’s the next big goal you have for yourself?

I’ve just re-committed to taking better care of myself, making doctor and dentist appointments, eating right, going to sleep at a reasonable time, etc.

What does bliss feel like to you? 

My husband and I snuggling in a hammock under a palm tree overlooking a lagoon. My son elsewhere having wholesome, well supervised fun.