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Dumbstruck

Before I received an autism diagnosis, certain members of my NT family were fine with making fun of me and calling me names.
When I was 19, I was diagnosed with autism. Finally, there was an answer to why I covered my ears during loud noises and rocked almost constantly as well as my lack of eye-contact and slightly strange gait.
People treated me differently post diagnosis. I hadn't changed since the diagnosis. I couldn't figure out why I was being shut out. Even people who were neutral toward me who would say "hello" did not. Some people didn't speak to me at all when I made the effort; and minimal socialization is an effort for me.
This still happens.
It happened at my mom's funeral two and a half years ago when I had to see my NT family members.
It happened the other day when the NT neighbor came by to speak to my sister with me in the car.
I am there, but not there.
This might be an autistic point of view, but these people are very rude and their silence speaks clearly  about how they feel in the presence of a disabled person.
Uncomfortable.
I can promise you that doing life in a NT world on a daily basis is nothing short of uncomfortable for me, either. In ways you can not possibly imagine.
I will spare you the details and say this:
Don't give autistic, mentally ill or otherwise people you know are disabled the "deaf and dumb" treatment.
God's view is to treat others the way you would like to be treated. We reap what we sow.
God's view also says that if you judge others, you will be judged by God (Romans 2:1, Matthew 7:1).
God's view also says that we all must forgive (Matthew 6:14).
That goes for me and for you. Whether or not you believe the Bible doesn't change its absolute truths. Even atheists show manners. God has given them to all of us.
Kindness is simple and free. Smile, even if I don't make eye contact I will probably see it out of the corner of my eye.
Wave. I'm not completely blind to body language.
Say "hi". I can promise you that I'm not interested in much dialogue.
Even if someone who you know is disabled and non-verbal, say hello. Let them know you see them as a person, though their worth isn't dependent on your action or lack for thereof.

Unless you happen to be autistic and struggle in this area or are a heartless arse, you can make the effort.
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