Sluicesleuth, 46

I was diagnosed with OCD when I was about 11-years-old, and it's compromised my life in various ways -- while remaining strangely invisible to most other people (who call it by other names -- usually hurtful, simple names). I teach and study literature largely because I am acquainted with the violence of (mis)representation -- and the power of literary studies to ameliorate this violence and suffering, a violence often associated with racism, gender stereotypes,etc., but which also afflicts "neuro-atypical" people like myself. I've joined this site because I want to meet another person who is out of the closet in this regard, who wants to live openly and honestly with their neuro-atypical orientation in the world and is determined to get stronger (whether that means overcoming the "condition" or celebrating its weird advantages -- or a quirky combination of both of these modes). I want to forge a relationship of solidarity and love with someone. This is not to say that OCD is all there is to my identity -- but it is a fairly unavoidable facet.
Dating and romance has been particularly challenging for me over the years, but I've made a few people happy in my life for short stints. I know it's possible. Let's give it another shot together. Send me a message, so we can go on a hike or run together, dance to live music, play guitar, have a coffee or beer, or chat. Peace.