This is a rare thread (peaceful and polite).
JSBACHlover, I'm 47 and was diagnosed this time last year. High functioning with no outward awkwardness, voice or visual cues. I do avoid eye contact, and was awkward and afraid of girls until recently.
You'll be one of the few people who will understand when I say;
I used to complain to God for years that I don't understand. I wanted a relationship, I would have meltdowns when I see a couple in the streets or on TV being happy together. I was so desperate to be like them, and I couldn't understand why I couldn't. So I would cry to God "Tell me what to do, I don't understand". He answered me one day and said "You don't have to understand, because I do".
That was about 4 years ago. In that time I've lived with a girl (arrangement only), had good friendships with two girls, found a great social therapist who has helped me tremendously, and finally got diagnosed with Asperger's.
I can be a lot more relaxed and accepting of my situation now. I still don't understand, but I'm moving with faith. As demonstrated above, my life is changing rapidly (never fast enough). I will get there, I know I will.