My mother used to beat me when my dad was at work. I have autism, but it wasn’t something that was well known when I was a child. I would make too much noise at church and embarrass her. I would get through with schoolwork before anyone else and get bored. I would talk to others and get in trouble with the teachers. They would single me out in front of everyone. Usually , they would move my desk to the front of the class by itself. So, I would have to sit there, in front of everyone, all alone. Mom didn’t like this one bit and usually would beat me until I couldn’t stand. I would fall down on the ground and she would just keep going. She didn’t let up. I would have to wear jeans and a long sleeve to school in Southeast USA humidity and heat to cover the marks. She used all kinds of household items to do this with as well. It was not always with a belt. It’s kinda messed me up towards other people. I am not usually comfortable in crowds. I have a hard time connecting with people that do not know me. I really do not have any person that I call a friend. My wife has helped me through a lot. She is my world. We have known each other since I was five, so there is great comfort I feel wash over me when we are together. I feel safe.