The person whom you encountered on the train was completely disrespectful and offensive in how he treated you. There is never a reason to treat anyone (autism or not) that way. I am sorry that you had to be subjet of his tirade.

I used to teach in middle school, and I have also taught several students with autism. I understand the importance of respecting their safe personal space, even in the best of circumstances.
One of my students liked to get under a big pillow that was in the classroom, it was his safe place. He said he was like a turtle, and he crawled inside his safe shell. Other teachers complained because, "He is not participating" Ha! He was participating! He listened and when he was ready he popped out and had not missed a word of the class lesson.

sirgalahad, I hope that you, too, have a place where you feel safe and can recover from this unfortunate confrontation.

I want you to know that I admire your participation on Connect. I have shared this discussion with some former students and their parents. I continue to hope to see one of them respond.
Across the miles, I want to send you a virtual hug and a thank you for what you are doing to reach out to others.