I think of labels a bit like beliefs: they are only useful if they give you more choice, more freedom.

My autism diagnosis was so liberating for me: it gave me the freedom to discover who i am behind the mask, the camouflaging to fit in.

I am so glad to read that there are so many areas of your life that are shame free. I think it will take me longer to get there, so it is good to read it is possible.

I applaud you for your honesty, and the deep love for your daughter that is threaded through this piece. No judgments here. If i had been in the restaurant when you were having brunch, i think, i hope that i would have empathised with her, with you, with your wife, and i know I would have rejoiced at the sight of a child being free to express her feelings. The idea of anyone medicating anyone in order to fit in with society is abhorrent to me.

In kindness, A🙏💚