[AquaticAmbi]

I've known at least one person with a type of autism. I think it might have been Aspergers Syndrome, but I think he used the word "disease" in place of syndrome. I felt really bad for the kid; he didn't know how to behave and talk appropriately in social situations but always had the best of intentions. I also felt like a piece of shit and incredibly guilty after I found out about his mental condition because I had recently laughed at crap he was saying. Not like... "I'm laughing in your face because you're stupid" laughter, but I would try to conceal my uncontrollable bursts of laughter when he said something really weird... I should have figured out something was a bit wrong with him.

I've also encountered lots of other autistic kids in my school and through my school's key club (community service organization). I think it's among the most interesting disorders; I've read tons about it in and outside of the classroom, and everytime I learn something new about it. Some of the people with it are literally geniuses but can't use their skills or communicate their knowledge efficiently.

I think it's kind of alarming that autism is on the rise, but no scientists or doctors know what causes it or how to treat it.