Embracing My Unique Rhythm of Autism

My Mind Doesn’t Tick to Your Tock

I can’t tick by your time or flow with your clock.
My time ticks on the spot—or not.
My minutes move slowly…  the seconds go fast.
Sometimes I just want the moments to last

Some times time spirals out of control.

It’s these times I take time to go with my flow

My pendulum swing is not stunted—
it judders in its own harmony,
or hangs in limbo in its own space,
or twitches
and shudders to its own rhythm

My hands don’t turn like yours.
They flutter like torn wings catching sunlight on their tips.
Pointing this way, then that on the dial, their changing patterns beautify the circle.

Arrhythmic-like puppets without strings

My numbers are not ordered from 1 through 12.
My centre is fluid, never fixed in one spot.


My face is bejeweled with Emeralds and Pearls.
My floral facade is the mask that you see, but me?
I am not seen—I am not heard.

My cogs don’t click with yours; they grind, and they skip teeth.
They spin backwards and forwards
or seize in the ice of your stare.

My wheels are not warped.
They turn to their own rhythm.
Oval and off-kilter.
Never quite syncing
with the great machine.

They hum at midnight
and stall at noon,
or whisper secrets
meant for no one’s ears.

My mind doesn’t  tick to your tock

My gears don’t mesh with your notions

I was never meant to fit in your instant tempo

Your Time can’t hold me.

My misfitting mechanism is my own and it is beautiful.

Thank you for reading. I hope you liked it and can tick with my tock. If you do, please like and subscribe. If you can, please comment below.

My reflections try to capture the essence of neurodiversity. The idea is that neurological differences, like autism, are natural variations of the human experience. They are not deficits to be corrected. This perspective aligns with the principles of the autism rights movement. The movement emphasizes acceptance. It also celebrates diverse ways of thinking and being.

The metaphor of a personal rhythm resonates deeply with me. It highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing our individual patterns and paces. Embracing one’s unique rhythm can lead to greater self-understanding and self-acceptance, fostering a sense of pride in one’s identity. This approach is central to the concept of autistic pride. It asserts that autistic individuals have unique characteristics. These characteristics bring both challenges and rewards. They should be celebrated rather than pathologized.

You contribute to a broader dialogue by sharing your experiences. This dialogue challenges traditional perceptions. It promotes a more inclusive and accepting society. Your insights encourage others to honor their own rhythms and advocate for environments that accommodate diverse needs and preferences.​

Ref: Some supporting information from Wikipedia