By MTC ~ I (a 39-year-old female) was diagnosed with autism in early childhood. Even though I turned out to be higher-functioning in several ways, I practically got punished for it (having autism). My mom, having a tendency to be overprotective, and having to be cautious in certain places because my hearing was heightened and therefore loud noises triggered me, and people thinking I should live in a group home and/or be in special education... are just a few ways of how I practically got punished for something I didn't choose. My family had to overcome hardships and challenges as well because of my diagnosis, and I feel terrible for them. They love me and wouldn't change a thing, but I still wish they didn't have to endure their obstacles. On one hand, my autism wasn't preached to me and/or my family as the result of sin, a punishment, or the work of "the devil." On the other hand however, I was taught that "God" creates us how we are, or at ...