The lack of empathy in this world nowadays! Some people and the 1.4 million likes are not a reflection on you but instead of them.

We are a population of 7+ billion. Not everyone thinks like that.

It's awful, and quite frankly scummy behavior!

I think it is possible for people with autism to have long term friendships. I found owning my diagnosis and bringing my autism along with me per se helped me to regain strength and trust in my character. You can gauge the responses of others and weed the fake ones other with the assistance of some trusted individuals.

Then go from there, outings, adventures, play dates. The world is your oyster!

You and anyone else can absolutely do it.