My friend and I are autistic adults who recently met at a networking group for autistic people. We met up at Cuppa Tosa to discuss the impact of how our hidden disability has affected us personally and professionally.

I apparently made a social gaffe while ordering our drinks. I thought I was being polite, considerate. However, I inadvertently offended the Barista, who proceeded to unkindly, and very sarcastically, call me out about it.

Being autistic, I thought the sarcasm was a corny joke, and I totally didn't get it. Neither did my friend. When the Barista brought out our order, they again lambasted me for my social gaffe, insinuating that I was being ableist.

I did not feel welcome on that day.

However, after posting this review, I called Vita, and we had a wonderful conversation on disabilities, both hidden and non hidden. We discussed the power of working through conflicts and restoring relationships.

She really wants customers to feel at home in her café. She cares deeply about her customers, and also her employees. She apologized on behalf of herself and the barista, who also regretted the interaction.

This heartfelt conversation has inspired me to live my values, which is to restore relationships after conflicts, not throw them away. That is what I do in my own family, and in my own home.

I will give this place a try again soon. Thanks, Vita. Your humility, vulnerability, and willingness to have a dialog, give me hope for the future of humanity.

Namaste