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We Rescued Each Other
From Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Very Good, Very Bad Cat
By Steven M. Kaufman Fun fact: Studies have found that pets can help develop positive social behaviors in autistic children. "Why can't you be like everyone else? You're weird. I don't want to talk to you." Those statements had been ingrained in my mind for so long that I just accepted them as part of the daily life of someone who has Asperger's. As I entered high school and college, I could feel the eyes of strangers intently locked on me, waiting for me to make that one awkward expression or statement that made absolutely no sense. At home, it wasn't much better. I went to bed confused, even frightened, by this condition that had taken hold of me and had no intention of ever leaving. In August 2011, my life forever changed when I was offered a position with the federal government. It was the chance of a lifetime, one I had imagined for so long when I was a student. I was fascinated by the history of our country and the workings of Congress. Whenever I pictured the heartbeat of our democracy, one city came to the forefront — Washington, D.C. I closed my eyes and visualized what it must have been like to be part of the Continental Congress, to have your name called as you were asked to sign what would become the greatest and most important document ever created. In my eyes, it was not a privilege, but an honor to be living and working in one of the most special cities anywhere. (Keep reading) | 