What is Asperger's Syndrome?

My name is Bryan, and I have Asperger's Syndrome.

Asperger's Syndrome is a form of high-functioning autism. People with Asperger's are generally withdrawn, uncomfortable in social situations, and are not very good at reading body language or understanding nonverbal cues. Their hobbies may border on obsession (the usual term for them is "special interests"), their minds encyclopedias of factoids about their hobbies, and they may become outgoing and cheerful if given a chance to talk (at length) about what moves them.

People with Asperger's frequently misunderstand metaphors and sayings. They think logically and take things literally. They may seem emotionless or cold to outsiders, but they are very close and loyal to friends and family. Last but not least, a lot of people with Asperger's are known for intelligence, displaying skill in fields like writing, engineering, technology, or science.

Everyone with Asperger's is different. Some of the many possible signs, conditions, symptoms, and quirks of Asperger's contradict with each other, and most people with Asperger's have only a small sampling of them.

What about me? I like to write. I love animals. I sometimes follow (and laugh at) politics. I watch Pixar films and giant monster movies. I listen to music and go for walks. I read Stephen King novels and nonfictional books on dinosaurs. I collect toys. I play video games. Sometimes I like to draw. I cry at sad stories.

In short, I'm human. Just one with a slightly different take on life.