"Do you drive?"

This is a question that a lot of people ask you when ur on the spectrum. This is also a normal everyday question for teenagers and young adults, but it can be really hard to navigate not giving a totally awkward response to. And because we are very often infantilized, it's a question people ask to determine your support needs or level of independence. Which in my opinion is kind of wild because not only is it usually none of their business, but if they asked directly we would probably just tell you. 

I have VERY awkwardly worded responses to this question as I try to explain that no, I don't drive, I am not practicing to drive, and do not have any plans to do so in the future. 

I think people really struggle with idea that we might not want the same milestones of independence. 

This is a similar struggle to not wanting to go to parties, celebrations, or events. I don't view those milestones the same way and have no desire to change that. 

I'm glad I have a family who is understanding of my desire not to drive. However, I also hope that my family and other can learn to take this same view about other common milestones. I don't want to do them; that's a good enough reason for me.