Autism & Authenticity

Finian has authenticity nailed.

At the risk of generalizing, most autistic people I know present their true Self to the world.  Finian doesn't do personas, mind games or subterfuge.

If Finian doesn't like you, you may be escorted to the front door with an unambiguous "bye bye" (true story).  If he feels like indulging in a spot of naturism, he'll happily deposit his clothes on the nearest floor-drobe.  If your armpits smell like out-of-date ham, he'll advise you to have a shower (usually adding that you "smell manky").

Its fair to say that his flavour of authenticity may be a little.... blunt.  For most of us, it'd be wise to dial down the truth bombs.  But authenticity is a trait to aspire to.

As a counselling student, I am expected to invest a lot of time and energy in becoming as authentic as I can.  This is so that I am aware of my own issues and don't project them onto my clients.  It's about keeping my clients safe.  

Developing authenticity is painful and unpretty.  As well as making friends with our good stuff, we have to uncover and examine our flaws, traumas and unlikable aspects.  For example, I like that I'm open, funny (I find myself hilarious) and fiercely protective of those I love.  I'm not so crazy, however, about my tenancy to be insecure, panicky and clingy within relationships.  This is not an attractive trait, boys and girls, and will likely drive your loved ones nuts.  I'm working on this and often fail spectacularly, but failure is educational (right?  right???).  Hopefully this will help me become a better counsellor and a less annoying human.

Then there's Finian.  He is the most singularly authentic person I've ever met.  He doesn't need therapy or hours of navel gazing to confidently express his true Self.  He is who he is, and embodies an attitude of "fuck you" if you don't like that.  He could make a great counsellor if he'd keep his clothes on and stop telling people they stink.