Being diagnosed with autism as an adult, even though I knew I was different all along, I never received professional help or therapies. Reading a book called "I Have Been Buried Under Years of Dust" by Valerie Gilpeer & Emily Grodin, has helped me realize that my dad teaching me to water ski when I was 11 years old was one of the best things he could have ever done for me, physically, emotionally, and autistically. And he was just trying to keep my sister and me busy and happy after our mom died when we were 10. 

Thanks to my dad, I did have fun in childhood despite the trauma of losing my mom coupled with undiagnosed autism and all the social awkwardness that brought. And it helped me develop a foundational love and special interest for physical fitness as well, which has also stayed with me and benefited me greatly. 

It's never too late to be diagnosed with autism, whether through self-diagnosis or with a qualified professional. The more knowledge you can gain, the more understanding you'll have to advocate for yourself and/or your loved ones and bring a greater joy and sweetness to daily life, amidst the struggles inherent in the life of anyone with autism. 

Together, we can support each other and bring a greater awareness to the world.