@mamacita Thank you, and good morning to you!
I grew up in a family of five children.I think my dad understood there was "something different" about me, but he didn't want to rock the boat with my mother. He loved her very deeply, and left the childrearing to her. I know she did the best she could given her own quirks and limitations. But, I never did forgive her for limiting me and not allowing me to bloom. The treatment tainted and stained the rest of my schooling and learning style.

I fully embrace my difference, and continue to push against those who would rather I be more neurotypical. I can mask but have learned that it leaves me very exhausted in a short amount of time. I have learned to love me for me as i am.
Ginger