Thursday, December 30, 2010
The NT boundaries issue
Do Neuro Typicals have boundary issues? Yes I believe they do. There are conditions and rules to get on with them and either be a friend or enter a relationship. Aspies are easier at times to get on with and I don't need to be around a person who is self conscious of their appearance. NTs make this world impssible and their reluctance to change is almost non penetrable. The NT boundaries are hard for Aspies but I am who I am and until change happens Aspies will remain in the darkness of ignorance. Ask yourself do NTs have boundaries?
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Aspergers the adult epidemic
As I type this blog post from on my IPhone from Ballarat I feel somewhat reassured that I am not the only adult affected by the Austism Spectrum. As more adults are now becoming diagnosed the barriers of ignorance in Australia need to be broken down. I do not see having Asperger Syndrome as a burden nor do I see it as some kind of weakness that I need to shirk as other people do not want to accept it. As time moves foreward the Australian community need to let more light into the closed and narrow tunnel of darkness. How much longer do adults with Autism need to confront unemployment and rejection? How much bullying is required for confidence and self esteem to become an ever growing problem?! More so how much awareness is required to penetrate and crush these barriers of ignorance?
Need I remind you that a man whose people confronted inequality was to speak in Washington DC in 1963 to bring to the government the issues of racism. Having Autism is more of a silent struggle. People do not see the hearts that bleed, the families who suffer in silence and all that is required is a person to rise and speak for a sent majority. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln said that "A house divided against itself cannot stand" and "nor can a nation exist half slave and half free". For adults and children on the Autism Spectrum how long do we need to endure the same inequality? I am not a person who will achieve in this world because I confront barriers and difficulty. I am trying to help adults affected by Autusm obtain employment and still nothing is being done. Will our political leaders do something about Autism in 2011 or will persons affected by Autism confront the resistance to change which exists in Australia at present. Let us hope that 2011 will be better than what exists at present!
Need I remind you that a man whose people confronted inequality was to speak in Washington DC in 1963 to bring to the government the issues of racism. Having Autism is more of a silent struggle. People do not see the hearts that bleed, the families who suffer in silence and all that is required is a person to rise and speak for a sent majority. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln said that "A house divided against itself cannot stand" and "nor can a nation exist half slave and half free". For adults and children on the Autism Spectrum how long do we need to endure the same inequality? I am not a person who will achieve in this world because I confront barriers and difficulty. I am trying to help adults affected by Autusm obtain employment and still nothing is being done. Will our political leaders do something about Autism in 2011 or will persons affected by Autism confront the resistance to change which exists in Australia at present. Let us hope that 2011 will be better than what exists at present!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Victorian Trip
My trip in Victoria has been good so far but the trip down was not much fun. I probably encountered the worst pilot on Christmas Day as the turbulence was like being in a roller-coaster. Despite being thrown around and people feeling the effects, I wondered if I was going to experience Christmas Day dead. The decent was also rapid. I got to Melbourne in the end. Thankfully my trusted GPS got me out of Melbourne through Geelong and down to Aireys Inlet. It took some time to get to see the actual ocean on the Great Ocean Road but eventually it came into view. After driving a long road to reach Warnambool I am now at motel. Taking friend's advice I today visited Flagship Village and now resting. One more night here and then onto Ballarat for historical sites and then onto Melbourne. Here I will visit some friends and see the sites.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Aspie Friendly Zones
I have often wondered in the world whether or not there are Aspie Friendly Zones. From a scale of 1 - 10 I am trying to measure and determine the level of support and friendliness of countries in the world in relation to the Autism Spectrum. I have come up with the following statistics based at general observation. 1 is the most friendly and support and 10 is the worst forget about it you may as well give up as an insane eccentric.
Australia scores about 7 and Queensland scores about 8-9 in terms of awareness. The more close minded areas increase the intolerance and the score is higher in terms of intolerance
United States would score a 5 but with the immunization debate the intolerance seems to increase also. In Texas like Queensland Australia where there is more of a bravado backward culture intolerance scores increase.
United Kingdom scores about 2 for there is the Autism Bill and as Dr Tony Attwood says an acceptance if a person collects toilet brushes as a special interest
Europe overall probably scores about 4 or 5 but I believe Autism is higher in Austria and Germany in cultures where there is more structure and routine adherance.
Which countries would be Aspie friendly then? Perhaps less westernised ones and more likely countries for example Romania, Bulgaria, and Czech Republic. basically any area where westernisation has not imposed it socialisation curse. What can be done then to decrease the score and raise more tolerance of the Autism Spectrum. Simple get information out there and approach people with open minds and more intellectual curiosity. It would be interesting if Dr Tony Attwood could record some kind of statistic when he visits abroad to determine where in the world the Aspie Friendly countries are to be found.
Where can I go to get acceptance as an Aspie if I live in a close minded area? Try a university or an immigrant community.
Australia scores about 7 and Queensland scores about 8-9 in terms of awareness. The more close minded areas increase the intolerance and the score is higher in terms of intolerance
United States would score a 5 but with the immunization debate the intolerance seems to increase also. In Texas like Queensland Australia where there is more of a bravado backward culture intolerance scores increase.
United Kingdom scores about 2 for there is the Autism Bill and as Dr Tony Attwood says an acceptance if a person collects toilet brushes as a special interest
Europe overall probably scores about 4 or 5 but I believe Autism is higher in Austria and Germany in cultures where there is more structure and routine adherance.
Which countries would be Aspie friendly then? Perhaps less westernised ones and more likely countries for example Romania, Bulgaria, and Czech Republic. basically any area where westernisation has not imposed it socialisation curse. What can be done then to decrease the score and raise more tolerance of the Autism Spectrum. Simple get information out there and approach people with open minds and more intellectual curiosity. It would be interesting if Dr Tony Attwood could record some kind of statistic when he visits abroad to determine where in the world the Aspie Friendly countries are to be found.
Where can I go to get acceptance as an Aspie if I live in a close minded area? Try a university or an immigrant community.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Memories in the United States of America
As some of my friends and family are aware a couple of years ago I visited the United States for what was a life's changing experience. Not only was this my first time in the United States but I got to visit a friend who changed my life forever. This friend has now moved on but she and I experienced great times together in the mid western United States. I thought I would look at Google Earth which I did tonight to re visit the town I visited two years ago and I find it hard to believe that I was actually there. Perhaps by some divine intervention but some of the streets look familiar and the memories are still in my heart and in my mind. Perhaps I will never have such experiences again but I feel fortunate that I experienced them. I can remember visiting the local cafe, visiting the Mississippi River and climbing the nearby mountain. I can remember in almost every American town and city you could see their Stars and Stripes Flag as it stood tall and proud in small town America.
As another year of my life comes to a close, I often wonder and think back to my past. I think of the wonderful friends I have who have helped me where they can in periods of difficulty. They to have their own personal experiences and journey in life. Life does not always pan out the way we would like it to but sometimes we are shown pain and humility to real help forge us ahead as who we are as people. I remember the words of John F Kennedy who said at his inauguration "that the torch has been passed to a new generation". In our lives that torch is passed down from old to young and how often do we really look at who we are as people more so than what society may expect of us. I recently commented on a friend's graduation at UQ. Having just graduated with his photo being shown on Facebook. This friend looks very confident and content with his achievements. Will he ever look back in his life and truly remember his achievements? I cannot understand why people are afraid to be proud of their achievements. It seems that people seem to want to struggle or work towards some unattainable goal and not feel blessed with what they have.
When I visited the United States in 2008, I was 36 years old. People seem to think of Americans as over the top but really they are wonderful people when you get to know them. I spoke to some people in the city and around the woods and they seemed like good folk. It would be good for more Americans to also visit Australia and I often try my best to accommodate American people I have met here in Brisbane. I was in the United States for a month and also spent some time in Canada. I had wonderful and fond memories of being in the United States and I hope one day to return just like General Douglas Macarthur said during World War II in regard to American defence in the Asia region. I was fortunate to have visited the Massachusetts State House and asked questions about this state being a commonwealth to the tour guide who looked like the American Actress, Agnus Moorehead. The thing that intrigued me about America was the size of the country and how coast to coast was populated. More importantly how every state had its own tax system and the list goes on. I hope people reading this post may also like the song from Lobo when they click on the Title of this post.
As another year of my life comes to a close, I often wonder and think back to my past. I think of the wonderful friends I have who have helped me where they can in periods of difficulty. They to have their own personal experiences and journey in life. Life does not always pan out the way we would like it to but sometimes we are shown pain and humility to real help forge us ahead as who we are as people. I remember the words of John F Kennedy who said at his inauguration "that the torch has been passed to a new generation". In our lives that torch is passed down from old to young and how often do we really look at who we are as people more so than what society may expect of us. I recently commented on a friend's graduation at UQ. Having just graduated with his photo being shown on Facebook. This friend looks very confident and content with his achievements. Will he ever look back in his life and truly remember his achievements? I cannot understand why people are afraid to be proud of their achievements. It seems that people seem to want to struggle or work towards some unattainable goal and not feel blessed with what they have.
When I visited the United States in 2008, I was 36 years old. People seem to think of Americans as over the top but really they are wonderful people when you get to know them. I spoke to some people in the city and around the woods and they seemed like good folk. It would be good for more Americans to also visit Australia and I often try my best to accommodate American people I have met here in Brisbane. I was in the United States for a month and also spent some time in Canada. I had wonderful and fond memories of being in the United States and I hope one day to return just like General Douglas Macarthur said during World War II in regard to American defence in the Asia region. I was fortunate to have visited the Massachusetts State House and asked questions about this state being a commonwealth to the tour guide who looked like the American Actress, Agnus Moorehead. The thing that intrigued me about America was the size of the country and how coast to coast was populated. More importantly how every state had its own tax system and the list goes on. I hope people reading this post may also like the song from Lobo when they click on the Title of this post.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone
With 2010 almost coming to a close, I thought I would take the opportunity to wish everyone within the Autism Community Seasons Greetings for 2010 and hope that 2011 will be a good year for everyone.
This year has seen the following on my part
1. I was elected to the University of Queensland Disability Sub Committee as Staff Representative
2. The foundations are hopefully in place for adults on the Autism Spectrum to obtain employment.
3. Some presentations by me with Dr Tony Attwood
4. My book on employment completed and now sent to Dr Tony Attwood for Dr Attwood to write a Foreword
5. My webpage created http://www.garryburge.com/
Once again I would like to wish everyone a very safe Christmas and Happy New Year for 2011. I hope everyone also likes the Christmas Carol associated with this post by double clicking on the Title of this post.
Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.
Seasons Greetings
Garry Burge
This year has seen the following on my part
1. I was elected to the University of Queensland Disability Sub Committee as Staff Representative
2. The foundations are hopefully in place for adults on the Autism Spectrum to obtain employment.
3. Some presentations by me with Dr Tony Attwood
4. My book on employment completed and now sent to Dr Tony Attwood for Dr Attwood to write a Foreword
5. My webpage created http://www.garryburge.com/
Once again I would like to wish everyone a very safe Christmas and Happy New Year for 2011. I hope everyone also likes the Christmas Carol associated with this post by double clicking on the Title of this post.
Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.
Seasons Greetings
Garry Burge
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Why NT career paths suck
The one thing that really annoys me about the NT (neuro typcial) career path is the way that it is structured. For instance I cannot stand authority figures who provide poor direction or allow for promotions of staff who can play the right hand of cards to suck up to them and get what they want.
I hate the interview process. I find it unfair in that a person is judged at face value more so than what skills they demonstrate and the time which is required for the person to do the job. The interview process is highly dependent on a person's social skills and lets face it people on the Autism Spectrum my own experience being mentioned here are not good socially so we fall down.
I hate having to 'bullshit' about my supposed strong points within an interview process or the selection criteria. Time is just wasted to me in trying to address questions and statements when I could be instead working in the job and ensuring I do a good job and be provided with proper direction. I find I don't need a lot of direction when in a job and I get tired of people who tell me what I need to do. I find I am self sufficient and don't like to be disturbed a lot. I cannot understand why in a work environment people talk when they are supposed to be in a work environment for 7hours and 15mins. If work could be performed and executed quickly then why does a person need to devote almost a whole day of their life to completing jobs which can be performed in a few hours.
I think NT people like to be lead whereas Aspies prefer to just get on and do what they need to in a job. I could be wrong but I think Aspies like a job where they feel valued and we are not really social climbers. We like to do what we need to do and don't like to be disturbed a lot. We sometimes get annoyed by certain conditions within a work environment which do not always favour us. For instance equal opportunity as Aspies are disadvantaged by having poor social queues and not always able to communicate effectively or know the social queues to advance in their career.
I have almost entirely given up on a career path as they never work out. In a job I like to know what I have to do and I have not got the energy to be embroiled in office politics. It does not help a work environment.
What exactly is a career path and does the notion sound Aspie friendly? I tend to think not as Aspies are not really social climbers and nor do we like to brag on about how good we are in job interviews either. NT's have to stop thinking we are putting ourselves down when we are in fact telling the truth. I cannot tolerate poor managers or supervisors who give poor direction. I also cannot stand lazy people who just sit around and talk or don't do their job properly. This also applies to teaching institutions to where a teacher may talk for 3/4 hour about their trip to the dentist and take 2 weeks off sick when for a wisdom tooth operation it is usually a week at the most.
Aspies have different wiring. Sadly NT's do not always understand nor how to relate to it. Just because an Aspie may think differently does not mean they are incapable of doing a job. They just need someone to understand them and work on their strong points and communicate where necessary.
Why Aspies make good employees
1. Take few sick days and are reliable
2. Like to do a job properly
3. Do work that NT's find boring
4. Conscientious and strong attention to detail.
5. Don't need or require constant supervision
6. The list goes on
I hate the interview process. I find it unfair in that a person is judged at face value more so than what skills they demonstrate and the time which is required for the person to do the job. The interview process is highly dependent on a person's social skills and lets face it people on the Autism Spectrum my own experience being mentioned here are not good socially so we fall down.
I hate having to 'bullshit' about my supposed strong points within an interview process or the selection criteria. Time is just wasted to me in trying to address questions and statements when I could be instead working in the job and ensuring I do a good job and be provided with proper direction. I find I don't need a lot of direction when in a job and I get tired of people who tell me what I need to do. I find I am self sufficient and don't like to be disturbed a lot. I cannot understand why in a work environment people talk when they are supposed to be in a work environment for 7hours and 15mins. If work could be performed and executed quickly then why does a person need to devote almost a whole day of their life to completing jobs which can be performed in a few hours.
I think NT people like to be lead whereas Aspies prefer to just get on and do what they need to in a job. I could be wrong but I think Aspies like a job where they feel valued and we are not really social climbers. We like to do what we need to do and don't like to be disturbed a lot. We sometimes get annoyed by certain conditions within a work environment which do not always favour us. For instance equal opportunity as Aspies are disadvantaged by having poor social queues and not always able to communicate effectively or know the social queues to advance in their career.
I have almost entirely given up on a career path as they never work out. In a job I like to know what I have to do and I have not got the energy to be embroiled in office politics. It does not help a work environment.
What exactly is a career path and does the notion sound Aspie friendly? I tend to think not as Aspies are not really social climbers and nor do we like to brag on about how good we are in job interviews either. NT's have to stop thinking we are putting ourselves down when we are in fact telling the truth. I cannot tolerate poor managers or supervisors who give poor direction. I also cannot stand lazy people who just sit around and talk or don't do their job properly. This also applies to teaching institutions to where a teacher may talk for 3/4 hour about their trip to the dentist and take 2 weeks off sick when for a wisdom tooth operation it is usually a week at the most.
Aspies have different wiring. Sadly NT's do not always understand nor how to relate to it. Just because an Aspie may think differently does not mean they are incapable of doing a job. They just need someone to understand them and work on their strong points and communicate where necessary.
Why Aspies make good employees
1. Take few sick days and are reliable
2. Like to do a job properly
3. Do work that NT's find boring
4. Conscientious and strong attention to detail.
5. Don't need or require constant supervision
6. The list goes on
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
The Autism Spectrum Evolution
I have sometimes been asked for advice concerning parents with children on the Autism Spectrum. What do I need to do? Where can I get help? The questions are many. I thought with some time on my hands that I would try and provide anyone interested with some useful information from my own personal account. This information may also be useful with the transition of the Autistic person into adulthood.
So here I begin
Here are some questions which I hope can assist people with knowing information. I have also included a link to my own website should you wish to send any questions you may have and I will try my best to answer.
I have just found out my 3 year old has Autism and what do I do?
Firstly be relieved that you have found out early. Don't do nothing but start to get help where possible. Find supportive societies or associations and parents with other Autistic Children on the Autism Spectrum. Do not accept that your Autistic Child is inferior to other children and not worthy of assistance which may be required.
Where can I find a school that supports my child with Autism? Find a school which has a reputable name that provides support. If you have doubts then shop around for a school which delivers. Ensure teachers are willing to listen and support. Don't be afraid to ask for necessary assistance if required. It is your right and your child will benefit than if you do not do anything.
My child is being bullied at school what can I do? The school is not listening either. Do not accept bullying in any shape or form. If the school fails to take action then withdraw your child from the school altogether. Bullying severely scars an Autistic person in their life and later. Do not take any crap nor should you have to endure it
My child has left school where next? Will my child find a job?
Register the person on the Autism Spectrum into an employment agency and ensure they get a good job coach. Ensure you also contact the manager of the employment agency to ensure that should the employment consultant or job coach slacken off that you do something about this. Also refer to information and books on the Autism Spectrum and employment. I have just written a book about the difficulties about the transition into employment and I hope to have this published next year.
Within adulthood a lot of work needs to be done. Some adults including myself on the Autism Spectrum are trying to do something about this. Please be sure to visit my website for further information.
Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to visit my website and post your questions there as I will try and help in anyway I can.
So here I begin
Here are some questions which I hope can assist people with knowing information. I have also included a link to my own website should you wish to send any questions you may have and I will try my best to answer.
I have just found out my 3 year old has Autism and what do I do?
Firstly be relieved that you have found out early. Don't do nothing but start to get help where possible. Find supportive societies or associations and parents with other Autistic Children on the Autism Spectrum. Do not accept that your Autistic Child is inferior to other children and not worthy of assistance which may be required.
Where can I find a school that supports my child with Autism? Find a school which has a reputable name that provides support. If you have doubts then shop around for a school which delivers. Ensure teachers are willing to listen and support. Don't be afraid to ask for necessary assistance if required. It is your right and your child will benefit than if you do not do anything.
My child is being bullied at school what can I do? The school is not listening either. Do not accept bullying in any shape or form. If the school fails to take action then withdraw your child from the school altogether. Bullying severely scars an Autistic person in their life and later. Do not take any crap nor should you have to endure it
My child has left school where next? Will my child find a job?
Register the person on the Autism Spectrum into an employment agency and ensure they get a good job coach. Ensure you also contact the manager of the employment agency to ensure that should the employment consultant or job coach slacken off that you do something about this. Also refer to information and books on the Autism Spectrum and employment. I have just written a book about the difficulties about the transition into employment and I hope to have this published next year.
Within adulthood a lot of work needs to be done. Some adults including myself on the Autism Spectrum are trying to do something about this. Please be sure to visit my website for further information.
Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to visit my website and post your questions there as I will try and help in anyway I can.
Deleting people by the click of a mouse
As a society I think we are becoming more and more moved from reality. As the computer age improves, more and more people are relying on online communication to assist them with their lives. The social utilities of Facebook and Twitter also allow for networking but how much focused on community are they really? One of the things I find is the confusion of the term and the loose expression of a 'friend'. On Facebook a person extends or has a collect group of friends on their Facebook account but are they really friends or just simply a connection?
As I use Facebook mainly for networking and for keeping in touch with other people whom I am not even sure actually use their Facebook page, I find that some people are inclined to just delete you with the click of a mouse. It is as simple as that! What needs careful consideration though is that as a society are we beginning to do this with our neighbours and other people around us? Can closure occur with the simple click of a mouse button?
As a society I think humanity has lost the plot. I think people really don't know what they want from life anymore as the choices are endless and sometimes baseless. In our search for meaning and identity, are we really making too many mouse clicks and not enough webpage browses or wikipedia research in seeing what other people are actually doing around us?
It is clear that you are not going to please everyone in this world but more importantly you can try and do what you consider to be the right thing. It seems that a lot of people are not responsible for their own actions and the media only want to hear tragedies or news worthy stories of their own personal choice. How often does a person take the time to listen to the old man on the street who may have a story to tell? The old lady sitting on the bus that may also have a story or just the everyday person who may want to just have a chat only to find the outside world brushing him or her off due to time restraints? As a society I don't think people listen anymore and the common word 'busy' seems to creep into conversation more and more. How long can we continue to go on this merry go round of being busy and ignoring those around us? Will it be too late one day? Will the person we wish to speak to be gone and then it is too late? We only have one go at life and I think some of us forget why we are on God's planet. Surely this merry go round has to stop one day and people start to again respect each other and take time to care about community. We can only hope?
As I use Facebook mainly for networking and for keeping in touch with other people whom I am not even sure actually use their Facebook page, I find that some people are inclined to just delete you with the click of a mouse. It is as simple as that! What needs careful consideration though is that as a society are we beginning to do this with our neighbours and other people around us? Can closure occur with the simple click of a mouse button?
As a society I think humanity has lost the plot. I think people really don't know what they want from life anymore as the choices are endless and sometimes baseless. In our search for meaning and identity, are we really making too many mouse clicks and not enough webpage browses or wikipedia research in seeing what other people are actually doing around us?
It is clear that you are not going to please everyone in this world but more importantly you can try and do what you consider to be the right thing. It seems that a lot of people are not responsible for their own actions and the media only want to hear tragedies or news worthy stories of their own personal choice. How often does a person take the time to listen to the old man on the street who may have a story to tell? The old lady sitting on the bus that may also have a story or just the everyday person who may want to just have a chat only to find the outside world brushing him or her off due to time restraints? As a society I don't think people listen anymore and the common word 'busy' seems to creep into conversation more and more. How long can we continue to go on this merry go round of being busy and ignoring those around us? Will it be too late one day? Will the person we wish to speak to be gone and then it is too late? We only have one go at life and I think some of us forget why we are on God's planet. Surely this merry go round has to stop one day and people start to again respect each other and take time to care about community. We can only hope?
Feeling somewhat burned out
There comes a point in your life that the complacency just gets to you. No matter how hard you try to penetrate it, it just creates a bubble around that you can just cannot seem to burst. Within the bubble you scream, yell and try to convince people what needs to be done but yet the bubble exists and you exist within it as a silent impenetrable voice.
Society just goes on the way it does and you know that around you things need to be improved but people just cannot understand where you are coming from. Perhaps you feel like an alien from another planet.
As Christmas fast approaches things start to wind down for the year and soon another year happens and for the last 20 years you wonder if the next year will be better than the previous one. The bubble still exists again and you have no pin to burst it just the envelope of the bubble around you where you can try and scream as loud as you can and wonder if anyone outside the bubble can hear you or could even be bothered to do so. The wheels of complacency move on and there is not much you can do just only hope that the bubble will soon burst. It is only a matter of when it will happen?!!
Society just goes on the way it does and you know that around you things need to be improved but people just cannot understand where you are coming from. Perhaps you feel like an alien from another planet.
As Christmas fast approaches things start to wind down for the year and soon another year happens and for the last 20 years you wonder if the next year will be better than the previous one. The bubble still exists again and you have no pin to burst it just the envelope of the bubble around you where you can try and scream as loud as you can and wonder if anyone outside the bubble can hear you or could even be bothered to do so. The wheels of complacency move on and there is not much you can do just only hope that the bubble will soon burst. It is only a matter of when it will happen?!!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
What to do when things don't work out
All of us go through good times and bad but for those of us with Autism, failure can be taken very personally. It can also seriously deflate self esteem and a sense of purpose. Some strategies to deal with difficulty are as follows
1. An Aspie should never compare themselves to an NT
2. Try to take expectations more slowly or perhaps figure out steps prior to attempt
3. Try to always be optimistic despite the struggles
To my critics who have informed me that I am negative. I do not see myself as negative, I more so see myself as realistic. Life with Autism is not always roses and champagne it can often be climbing mountains and watching your step as you climb the mountain.
Every person is different and some people do excel in life while other people just have to play the cards they are given. The best thing is to be strong and safeguard yourself during times of difficulty. Always see hope despite the darkness and never submit to losing your anger to people who can make life difficult for you. Strength ultimately wins in the end it just depends on how much strength you can commit in a lifetime.
1. An Aspie should never compare themselves to an NT
2. Try to take expectations more slowly or perhaps figure out steps prior to attempt
3. Try to always be optimistic despite the struggles
To my critics who have informed me that I am negative. I do not see myself as negative, I more so see myself as realistic. Life with Autism is not always roses and champagne it can often be climbing mountains and watching your step as you climb the mountain.
Every person is different and some people do excel in life while other people just have to play the cards they are given. The best thing is to be strong and safeguard yourself during times of difficulty. Always see hope despite the darkness and never submit to losing your anger to people who can make life difficult for you. Strength ultimately wins in the end it just depends on how much strength you can commit in a lifetime.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Meeting today
This morning I had a meeting concerning software testing for adults on the Autism Spectrum. What is paramount is that for such a project to go ahead funding is required to ensure that adults on the Autism Spectrum can be trained and employed as software testers. Why is software testing so important and why choose adults on the Autism Spectrum? The main answers to this question are that adults on the Autism Spectrum are more likely to have strong attention and focus to detail.
Despite locking horns concerning disability employment agencies and offering support for work placement I emphasised the following points.
1. For a software testing employer to occur we need to lay the framework and foundations.
2. Vital funding is required.
3. Adults on the Autism Spectrum keen and willing to work.
I emphasized my own experiences in finding it difficult in the past to obtain employment and more importantly I informed the conference meeting of my writing a book to do something and say something about unemployment in adults on the Autism Spectrum.
We really need support and should anyone be interested or support this cause, please visit my website and leave a response. Any support appreciated and please visit my contact page as I have included as a link above under "Meeting Today".
We need to get adults on the Autism Spectrum into employment and ensure they have some quality of life.
Despite locking horns concerning disability employment agencies and offering support for work placement I emphasised the following points.
1. For a software testing employer to occur we need to lay the framework and foundations.
2. Vital funding is required.
3. Adults on the Autism Spectrum keen and willing to work.
I emphasized my own experiences in finding it difficult in the past to obtain employment and more importantly I informed the conference meeting of my writing a book to do something and say something about unemployment in adults on the Autism Spectrum.
We really need support and should anyone be interested or support this cause, please visit my website and leave a response. Any support appreciated and please visit my contact page as I have included as a link above under "Meeting Today".
We need to get adults on the Autism Spectrum into employment and ensure they have some quality of life.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Donald's Story, Donald is the first adult diagnosed with Autism
Please watch Donald's story. Donald is the first adult diagnosed with Autism. If you are interested in reading his story please double click on the Title of this post Donald's Story, Donald is the first adult diagnosed with Autism". The link provides you with Donald's story and a video about him. It is well worth watching
An Aspie and Religion
As an Aspie I sometimes ponder at the topics of Religion and God. I wonder then how I perceive both topics and how they relate to myself and other people in the world. I believe that a person's connection with God is their own personal journey. More importantly a person should be enlightened in their own way as to understand or perhaps form their own relationship with God.
It can be very difficult in the society we currently live in to draw comfort and understand where God is in our lives. Such issues need really to be made apparent through a Theologian who can speak more so from the heart and experience than just bore people stiff with a stale sermon within a gathering. I personally do believe that God does exist but I will talk more about this later in this post.
As a person I am concerned about how society is unfolding these days. It deeply concerns me as an individual to see people having an attachment to inanimate objects and for these objects to draw a sense of comfort more so than a person accepting themselves and what they can be doing more of to help not only who they are but others as well. I think there is just too much choice in the endless material objects that exist around us more so than on other people who walk this earth with a great deal of experience and compassion within their lives. I think all faiths need to work towards unity and enlightenment more so than division and anger. Of course I need to be very careful as to what I say which is unfortunate for being able to convey my thoughts and open my mind should not be a shameful thing.
I have always wondered with religion why there are never any questions as to who God is before Jesus Christ. Whenever I have tried to mention this, I am more or less told or encouraged to 'hush up' my questions. I believe God is revealed well before the birth of Christ and I think that Theologians need to emphasise this more.
Now this brings me to the topic of why I believe God exists.
There is a hatred and there have been wars in the world but this has not been as a result of God. This is human error and the human condition. Despite such traumatic experiences one can cast their minds to the poem "In Flanders Field". During World War 1 where lives were lost and people were humiliated by war, the blood and pain that was experienced on the war fields were replaced by the ubiquitous Red Poppy. Red Poppies grew and with them came the flower of life and the spread of poppies to hide the scars of the war that once was present. It is rather ironic that the poppies were Red and perhaps again this may be perceived as divine intervention.
In my own life I have experienced the hand of God and I don't really care if anybody is critical of what I have to say. These are my personal views. In my life I can remember people who I have known that have provided me with humility. I can remember knowing a small Austrian man who endured the trauma of a Nazi Concentration Camp, I can remember a woman whom I believe was also divine intervention as both she and I met to serve a purpose. She also had Asperger Syndrome but has since moved on. I do believe that God brought her and I together in a time when we both needed each other. I can also remember meeting people in very unlikely places who have helped me. In a trip to New Zealand just outside Rotorua in New Zealand. More importantly I know of people in congregations and some of my friends who are Church Ministers who are doing a great job in providing God's good work. Unfortunately they may not always see it the way I do as I tend to see things a bit differently than other people do.
In society today it is unfortunate that people tend to not want to talk about God or acknowledge God in their lives. When I talk about this, readers of my post perhaps think I am going to stray towards "Bible Bashing" but I just don't know what it is with society. I do not understand why people are becoming cold and when you mention that you try to be a good Christian that instead of being admired that you are instead distanced from people around you. Being Christian to me is not about how much or how little I attend church but more so it is about providing goodness on our planet. I feel uncomfortable in being selfish and I furthermore am saddened when I see so much pain and misery in the world. When you hear about younger people feeling they have no hope or are unhappy in their lives, I wonder what is happening. It is just so difficult to fathom at times. I have been fortunate to have met and still good Christians in my life. Perhaps they may even be my own or a person's own connection with God and seeing the hand of God?
I do have my own faith but I believe that converting people is wrong. Instead we need to enlighten and guide others on their own personal journey if they so choose. It is up to every person to believe or not believe in God but my own connection with my own beliefs are from my own experiences in life. I believe people have become cold and given up on their journey because the old Theologian teachings have failed to adapt to modern time. Death is something that comes to us all and beyond it is perhaps a mystery or an end. I think it is wrong that a person is judged before God at death because God is not in a hierarchical structure. Just think of the Poppies on the war field and also think of how much better the world is when people actually care about each other and more importantly implement goodness more so than pain and misery. Surely this is one means of understanding God? People who are good Christians provide a positive pathway to happiness and prosperity.
As an Aspie, I feel shameful when I see greed around me. I have many failings and I have many attributes myself. We all do as this is the means of working on our foundations as people. Surely if we want a better world then we can work together to obtain it more so than just going on and being greed and engrossed in consumerism like we are today. If you read this post I hope you are able to find, think about or discover or accept your standing with how you perceive God. I think people need to stop being cold block of ice and more so work towards reuniting community.
It can be very difficult in the society we currently live in to draw comfort and understand where God is in our lives. Such issues need really to be made apparent through a Theologian who can speak more so from the heart and experience than just bore people stiff with a stale sermon within a gathering. I personally do believe that God does exist but I will talk more about this later in this post.
As a person I am concerned about how society is unfolding these days. It deeply concerns me as an individual to see people having an attachment to inanimate objects and for these objects to draw a sense of comfort more so than a person accepting themselves and what they can be doing more of to help not only who they are but others as well. I think there is just too much choice in the endless material objects that exist around us more so than on other people who walk this earth with a great deal of experience and compassion within their lives. I think all faiths need to work towards unity and enlightenment more so than division and anger. Of course I need to be very careful as to what I say which is unfortunate for being able to convey my thoughts and open my mind should not be a shameful thing.
I have always wondered with religion why there are never any questions as to who God is before Jesus Christ. Whenever I have tried to mention this, I am more or less told or encouraged to 'hush up' my questions. I believe God is revealed well before the birth of Christ and I think that Theologians need to emphasise this more.
Now this brings me to the topic of why I believe God exists.
There is a hatred and there have been wars in the world but this has not been as a result of God. This is human error and the human condition. Despite such traumatic experiences one can cast their minds to the poem "In Flanders Field". During World War 1 where lives were lost and people were humiliated by war, the blood and pain that was experienced on the war fields were replaced by the ubiquitous Red Poppy. Red Poppies grew and with them came the flower of life and the spread of poppies to hide the scars of the war that once was present. It is rather ironic that the poppies were Red and perhaps again this may be perceived as divine intervention.
In my own life I have experienced the hand of God and I don't really care if anybody is critical of what I have to say. These are my personal views. In my life I can remember people who I have known that have provided me with humility. I can remember knowing a small Austrian man who endured the trauma of a Nazi Concentration Camp, I can remember a woman whom I believe was also divine intervention as both she and I met to serve a purpose. She also had Asperger Syndrome but has since moved on. I do believe that God brought her and I together in a time when we both needed each other. I can also remember meeting people in very unlikely places who have helped me. In a trip to New Zealand just outside Rotorua in New Zealand. More importantly I know of people in congregations and some of my friends who are Church Ministers who are doing a great job in providing God's good work. Unfortunately they may not always see it the way I do as I tend to see things a bit differently than other people do.
In society today it is unfortunate that people tend to not want to talk about God or acknowledge God in their lives. When I talk about this, readers of my post perhaps think I am going to stray towards "Bible Bashing" but I just don't know what it is with society. I do not understand why people are becoming cold and when you mention that you try to be a good Christian that instead of being admired that you are instead distanced from people around you. Being Christian to me is not about how much or how little I attend church but more so it is about providing goodness on our planet. I feel uncomfortable in being selfish and I furthermore am saddened when I see so much pain and misery in the world. When you hear about younger people feeling they have no hope or are unhappy in their lives, I wonder what is happening. It is just so difficult to fathom at times. I have been fortunate to have met and still good Christians in my life. Perhaps they may even be my own or a person's own connection with God and seeing the hand of God?
I do have my own faith but I believe that converting people is wrong. Instead we need to enlighten and guide others on their own personal journey if they so choose. It is up to every person to believe or not believe in God but my own connection with my own beliefs are from my own experiences in life. I believe people have become cold and given up on their journey because the old Theologian teachings have failed to adapt to modern time. Death is something that comes to us all and beyond it is perhaps a mystery or an end. I think it is wrong that a person is judged before God at death because God is not in a hierarchical structure. Just think of the Poppies on the war field and also think of how much better the world is when people actually care about each other and more importantly implement goodness more so than pain and misery. Surely this is one means of understanding God? People who are good Christians provide a positive pathway to happiness and prosperity.
As an Aspie, I feel shameful when I see greed around me. I have many failings and I have many attributes myself. We all do as this is the means of working on our foundations as people. Surely if we want a better world then we can work together to obtain it more so than just going on and being greed and engrossed in consumerism like we are today. If you read this post I hope you are able to find, think about or discover or accept your standing with how you perceive God. I think people need to stop being cold block of ice and more so work towards reuniting community.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
My advocacy work
It is often difficult when you try to adapt to a world when you seem to struggle to reach any goals or expectations within a neuro typical sense. I am determined to get somewhere in my life and just not remain idle. Often when you try your hardest to get the message out there people tend to think that perhaps I am mad or crazy or even unrealistic in what I want to achieve. For too long I have endured repression in my life and been doubted or told that I am incapable or not realistic in my expectations. Personally I am committed to go to the grave in what I believe is a cause that needs support. It is just difficult I guess when you lack the necessary social skills and means of getting on and relating to other people.
I cannot live a life where I am someone I am not and why should I have to? Why do I have to pretend to be someone I am not and meet expectations which just cause me humiliation and failure? It is difficult to try and pretend to be someone I am not and despite trying in the past to adjust to the regular world, I just cannot exist within its framework when my mind and actions are unique to me and seen as perhaps unacceptable by them.
I am tired of some people's false perceptions and of their total lack of understanding of who I am and the expectations they place on me. I am glad that I know Dr Tony Attwood and that he diagnosed me. I am fortunate that Dr Attwood is supportive where he can be and even though he may or may not contribute to the Foreword of my book, I need to put my thoughts down as words. I am not sure whom I can quote but the world has people who became well known in or after their lives on the planet. One only has to look at Mother Mother Teresa. Despite her hard work, she managed to make an impact on the planet. Mother Teresa once said "Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies". The Autism Spectrum may be a small thing in most people's lives but we cannot underestimate their abilities. I may not be famous or have money or be a celebrity but I am fortunate to be who I am. I am not really after fame or glory but I would like to eliminate selfishness on my part as a human and provide assistance to those like me who need it. I know there are important causes out there but let us move forward and let my advocacy work become more important in paving the way for more support and awareness.
I cannot live a life where I am someone I am not and why should I have to? Why do I have to pretend to be someone I am not and meet expectations which just cause me humiliation and failure? It is difficult to try and pretend to be someone I am not and despite trying in the past to adjust to the regular world, I just cannot exist within its framework when my mind and actions are unique to me and seen as perhaps unacceptable by them.
I am tired of some people's false perceptions and of their total lack of understanding of who I am and the expectations they place on me. I am glad that I know Dr Tony Attwood and that he diagnosed me. I am fortunate that Dr Attwood is supportive where he can be and even though he may or may not contribute to the Foreword of my book, I need to put my thoughts down as words. I am not sure whom I can quote but the world has people who became well known in or after their lives on the planet. One only has to look at Mother Mother Teresa. Despite her hard work, she managed to make an impact on the planet. Mother Teresa once said "Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies". The Autism Spectrum may be a small thing in most people's lives but we cannot underestimate their abilities. I may not be famous or have money or be a celebrity but I am fortunate to be who I am. I am not really after fame or glory but I would like to eliminate selfishness on my part as a human and provide assistance to those like me who need it. I know there are important causes out there but let us move forward and let my advocacy work become more important in paving the way for more support and awareness.
Employment preparation
When school is finished for an adult on the Autism Spectrum. The next step is to either choose between going to university or to obtain employment. For adults, completing school can often be a relief or a very anxious period. Having spoken with Dr Tony Attwood recently in a presentation I gave with him on employment, Dr Attwood, myself and some other adults on the Autism Spectrum spoke of some useful methods when looking for employment.
These methods are as follows
1. Try to obtain work experience within a company or organisation or even contact a family friend or family member who may offer work experience in their business or organisation.
2. Register with a disability employment agency and ensure you find a job coach who will assist you with job searching and employment placement.
3. Look at special or area of interest which may be employable. If paid employment is not possible, then consider undertaking some work experience in the meantime.
4. Look for some useful books and other information concerning employment and having Asperger Syndrome. These can be found by visiting Dr Tony Attwood's website or undertaking a Google Search to obtain useful information.
Disclosure of Asperger Syndrome or Autism is really a personal decision and choice but from my own experience, I have found that disclosing Asperger Syndrome and obtaining assistance from a disability employment agency is essential. It is important to find a disability employment agency that will work for you and you need to ensure that the agency assists you. I have recently written a book about my own personal experiences and struggles with the transition into employment. This book also looks at some positive developments and the necessity of disability employment agencies.
Although work experience may not be the same as paid employment it does provide some structure. Avenues and support need to be explored in assisting you as the person on the Autism Spectrum with job placement. Should you have any questions, please direct these through my website garryburge.com and I will try and answer any concerns or provide any advice where necessary.
These methods are as follows
1. Try to obtain work experience within a company or organisation or even contact a family friend or family member who may offer work experience in their business or organisation.
2. Register with a disability employment agency and ensure you find a job coach who will assist you with job searching and employment placement.
3. Look at special or area of interest which may be employable. If paid employment is not possible, then consider undertaking some work experience in the meantime.
4. Look for some useful books and other information concerning employment and having Asperger Syndrome. These can be found by visiting Dr Tony Attwood's website or undertaking a Google Search to obtain useful information.
Disclosure of Asperger Syndrome or Autism is really a personal decision and choice but from my own experience, I have found that disclosing Asperger Syndrome and obtaining assistance from a disability employment agency is essential. It is important to find a disability employment agency that will work for you and you need to ensure that the agency assists you. I have recently written a book about my own personal experiences and struggles with the transition into employment. This book also looks at some positive developments and the necessity of disability employment agencies.
Although work experience may not be the same as paid employment it does provide some structure. Avenues and support need to be explored in assisting you as the person on the Autism Spectrum with job placement. Should you have any questions, please direct these through my website garryburge.com and I will try and answer any concerns or provide any advice where necessary.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Meeting with Dr Tony Attwood today
This afternoon I attended a seminar of Dr Tony Attwood at the University of Queensland. Dr Attwood spoke for an hour and I got to talk quite extensively after the meeting. Tony also mentioned the fact I have written a book about employment issues in adults. I also was able to introduce some adults to Dr Tony Attwood.
On the whole the presentation was very informative and thanks also needs to go to Associate Professor Kate Sofronoff from the University of Queensland Department of Psychology. It was good to meet with both Kate and Tony. Brisbane is very fortunate to have the level of support and I am looking forward to a meeting on Monday also. Please stay tuned for further updates.
On the whole the presentation was very informative and thanks also needs to go to Associate Professor Kate Sofronoff from the University of Queensland Department of Psychology. It was good to meet with both Kate and Tony. Brisbane is very fortunate to have the level of support and I am looking forward to a meeting on Monday also. Please stay tuned for further updates.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Introducing GarryBurge.com
It is official. I have a new website. It is called GarryBurge.com and it can be found by visiting the following link http://www.garryburge.com
I am currently working on the website and to access it please just double click on the Title of this post "Introducing GarryBurge.com" to be taken directly to it.
My website is to provide awareness of my own personal experiences of having Asperger Syndrome and to raise awareness in Brisbane, Australia and around the world. It may sound very ambitious, but I need to begin somewhere. The message needs to reach the wider community and I hope that my website is able to do this. My website features information on Asperger Syndrome and some you tube links. People can also contact me on my contact page. Over the coming months, I will be updating my website where necessary in order for it to be more professional and effective in terms of communication.
I am currently working on the website and to access it please just double click on the Title of this post "Introducing GarryBurge.com" to be taken directly to it.
My website is to provide awareness of my own personal experiences of having Asperger Syndrome and to raise awareness in Brisbane, Australia and around the world. It may sound very ambitious, but I need to begin somewhere. The message needs to reach the wider community and I hope that my website is able to do this. My website features information on Asperger Syndrome and some you tube links. People can also contact me on my contact page. Over the coming months, I will be updating my website where necessary in order for it to be more professional and effective in terms of communication.
People who make false judgements
Throughout life we often confront people who may like or dislike us. We may also encounter people who form a judgement of us without really knowing us truly for who we are as a person. I believe that everybody has a backbone but some of us do not care or do not have the strenght to show it.
I feel often that people are judged for where they stand in society than for who they are as a person. Often if you are not married and probably never likely to be married, people seem to regard you as somehow incomplete. Furthermore, society can become too focus with being 'noisy' more so than understanding.
I always seem to fall through the cracks as a person and I also seem to struggle a great deal more than other people do in some areas of my life. The conventions of society tend to be overwhelming at times when I am expected to fit into them. For instance, I perhaps do not fit into the regular male stereotype. I do not believe in bottling up my emotions as I think that it adds to mental health issues. I do not have the time to present a false ego as it is too energy draining and time consuming. I cannot stand it either when other men and women believe that they need to show their ego when I am around them. I think "please get real, I really don't need this" as life is too short.
I see in Australian society an us and them mentality with politicians. The politicians seem to live in ivory towers and have all the perks that go with it. I believe there needs to be a better connection for if we are forced to vote for politicians, then surely they should reprsesent the community and listen to the community's concerns much more.
Every person is different and some are very complex. It can often be challenging dealing with difficult people or eccentric people, but if the world was all the same, then wouldn't life be boring? I do not believe in tribalism in that everyone should exist under some controlled measure, but I do think acceptance of diversity is a good thing. Let us accept and understand more before we stay to judge.
I feel often that people are judged for where they stand in society than for who they are as a person. Often if you are not married and probably never likely to be married, people seem to regard you as somehow incomplete. Furthermore, society can become too focus with being 'noisy' more so than understanding.
I always seem to fall through the cracks as a person and I also seem to struggle a great deal more than other people do in some areas of my life. The conventions of society tend to be overwhelming at times when I am expected to fit into them. For instance, I perhaps do not fit into the regular male stereotype. I do not believe in bottling up my emotions as I think that it adds to mental health issues. I do not have the time to present a false ego as it is too energy draining and time consuming. I cannot stand it either when other men and women believe that they need to show their ego when I am around them. I think "please get real, I really don't need this" as life is too short.
I see in Australian society an us and them mentality with politicians. The politicians seem to live in ivory towers and have all the perks that go with it. I believe there needs to be a better connection for if we are forced to vote for politicians, then surely they should reprsesent the community and listen to the community's concerns much more.
Every person is different and some are very complex. It can often be challenging dealing with difficult people or eccentric people, but if the world was all the same, then wouldn't life be boring? I do not believe in tribalism in that everyone should exist under some controlled measure, but I do think acceptance of diversity is a good thing. Let us accept and understand more before we stay to judge.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Trying to keep optomistic when difficult times may be ahead
For anyone in life, the journey forward may be uncertain or anxiety provoking. Often it can be difficult to also know what you may be good at or whether or not you will ever succeed in life. I often find the future unclear and as I grow older, it is not always possible to know where I am going.
Life is not always fair but all you can do is give it your best. It may take time for attitudes and society to change and be more accommodating of you. Furthermore, you may feel like the world is not always understanding and you may spend periods of time in your own company just working out what is happening around you.
It has taken me a long time to be confident in myself and to feel human. I always had and maintained a lot of self doubt. I never saw myself as being good enough and I used to think to myself, why do I think like this? I also spent too much time worrying about what other people thought of me and trying to meet their expectations only to feel depressed at the same time. Why could I not be me? Why do I need to change to someone I am not?
We all have a limited of time on earth but so many of us tend to live our lives trying to be someone we are not. We try too hard to meet the expectations of others only to feel disappointed and unhappy. Community is important as we are social creatures but surely if we spend more time in getting to know other people and thinking more about how we can significantly reduce mental illness and depression, then wouldn't this be a good thing? All it takes is for people to support each other and interact. You never know what will happen to you from one day to the next so enjoying life and making the most of it is essential.
Life is not always fair but all you can do is give it your best. It may take time for attitudes and society to change and be more accommodating of you. Furthermore, you may feel like the world is not always understanding and you may spend periods of time in your own company just working out what is happening around you.
It has taken me a long time to be confident in myself and to feel human. I always had and maintained a lot of self doubt. I never saw myself as being good enough and I used to think to myself, why do I think like this? I also spent too much time worrying about what other people thought of me and trying to meet their expectations only to feel depressed at the same time. Why could I not be me? Why do I need to change to someone I am not?
We all have a limited of time on earth but so many of us tend to live our lives trying to be someone we are not. We try too hard to meet the expectations of others only to feel disappointed and unhappy. Community is important as we are social creatures but surely if we spend more time in getting to know other people and thinking more about how we can significantly reduce mental illness and depression, then wouldn't this be a good thing? All it takes is for people to support each other and interact. You never know what will happen to you from one day to the next so enjoying life and making the most of it is essential.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
The self talk phase
If you mention to someone that your talk to yourself they would no doubt think you are crazy. For me, I have done this my whole life as a coping measure. When nobody can understand me and I have nobody to talk to, I often rely on myself for conversation.
Often the world can be a lonely place when you do not always think and act like other people around you. Your thoughts may become confused or more importantly people just do not understand the way you think and feel about things. Since meeting other adults on the Autism Spectrum, they have also informed me that they talk to themselves also. Is it something in our brains that we do? Why are our brains different in the way we process information and relate to others?
As an Aspie, I don't so much get depressed by the way I think but more so by the way people do not always understand things and the way I see the world. I often become confused by people who do not always mean what they say or respond to a comment which I make. Furthermore, meeting the expectations of others can in itself also become overwhelming. In the conventional world I am not really successful or am good at something. No matter what I try, I just never to seem to make it when this involves other people and hierarchy. Writing a manuscript, or striving towards a career path is in itself just about impossible.
Self talk therefore is my way of shutting out the world around me when everything becomes too much. When I am on my own, I do not need to answer people's constant questions about who I am and why I think the way I do. I also become less confused by some people who I just cannot understand. From what I can see is that Aspies are really like cats in that we keep to ourselves and socialise differently. We are not really interested in meeting social expectations and more importantly most of us are not really interested in fame or glory. We just want to be understood and for people to stop making life difficult for us. I cannot understand why some many Aspies experience bullying and I think it is criminal that such behaviour exists. We do not ask for it and we dislike other people making our lives miserable. We therefore need to rely on positive self talk to get us through our difficulties.
Often the world can be a lonely place when you do not always think and act like other people around you. Your thoughts may become confused or more importantly people just do not understand the way you think and feel about things. Since meeting other adults on the Autism Spectrum, they have also informed me that they talk to themselves also. Is it something in our brains that we do? Why are our brains different in the way we process information and relate to others?
As an Aspie, I don't so much get depressed by the way I think but more so by the way people do not always understand things and the way I see the world. I often become confused by people who do not always mean what they say or respond to a comment which I make. Furthermore, meeting the expectations of others can in itself also become overwhelming. In the conventional world I am not really successful or am good at something. No matter what I try, I just never to seem to make it when this involves other people and hierarchy. Writing a manuscript, or striving towards a career path is in itself just about impossible.
Self talk therefore is my way of shutting out the world around me when everything becomes too much. When I am on my own, I do not need to answer people's constant questions about who I am and why I think the way I do. I also become less confused by some people who I just cannot understand. From what I can see is that Aspies are really like cats in that we keep to ourselves and socialise differently. We are not really interested in meeting social expectations and more importantly most of us are not really interested in fame or glory. We just want to be understood and for people to stop making life difficult for us. I cannot understand why some many Aspies experience bullying and I think it is criminal that such behaviour exists. We do not ask for it and we dislike other people making our lives miserable. We therefore need to rely on positive self talk to get us through our difficulties.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Assisting Dr Tony Attwood wherever possible
As most readers are aware, I was diagnosed with having residual Asperger Syndrome by Dr Tony Attwood in 1998. It is hard to believe that this was more than 10 years ago now. Since my diagnosis I have helped Dr Attwood where I can. In February 1999, I was asked by Dr Attwood to accompany him to the Queensland University of Technology. It was at the Queensland University of Technology, that I spoke with Dr Attwood to counselors from the university. As I had recently graduated from the University of New England, I tried my best to inform counselors and other university representatives of what it is like as a student at university.
I have also spoken at a couple of seminars on employment with Dr Tony Attwood as well as relationships for adults with Asperger Syndrome. I have assisted Dr Attwood too with information concerning the challenges and difficulties an adult with Asperger Syndrome confronts in the world around them.
Brisbane is fortunate to have Dr Attwood reside here and I believe we are ideally placed on the world stage in terms of Asperger Syndrome awareness and support. Asperger Services Australia is also based in Brisbane. So Brisbane has a lot going for it.
When I was first diagnosed, Dr Tony Attwood provided workshops for adults with Asperger Syndrome and I still have the notes from these workshops on me. I also tried to undertake a PhD at the University of Queensland as an adult with Asperger Syndrome but unfortunately I was to be unsuccessful, having no grounding in the requirements to undertake such study. Dr Tony Attwood may be called upon to assist with more awareness of Asperger Syndrome in Brisbane and Australia but with him having a busy schedule there is only so much time he has available.
For anyone interested in reading Dr Tony Attwood's website please double click on the title to this post "Assisting Dr Attwood wherever possible". Please note that Dr Attwood is now a Professor also at a local Brisbane University. More information can be obtained by clicking on Dr Attwood's website.
I have also spoken at a couple of seminars on employment with Dr Tony Attwood as well as relationships for adults with Asperger Syndrome. I have assisted Dr Attwood too with information concerning the challenges and difficulties an adult with Asperger Syndrome confronts in the world around them.
Brisbane is fortunate to have Dr Attwood reside here and I believe we are ideally placed on the world stage in terms of Asperger Syndrome awareness and support. Asperger Services Australia is also based in Brisbane. So Brisbane has a lot going for it.
When I was first diagnosed, Dr Tony Attwood provided workshops for adults with Asperger Syndrome and I still have the notes from these workshops on me. I also tried to undertake a PhD at the University of Queensland as an adult with Asperger Syndrome but unfortunately I was to be unsuccessful, having no grounding in the requirements to undertake such study. Dr Tony Attwood may be called upon to assist with more awareness of Asperger Syndrome in Brisbane and Australia but with him having a busy schedule there is only so much time he has available.
For anyone interested in reading Dr Tony Attwood's website please double click on the title to this post "Assisting Dr Attwood wherever possible". Please note that Dr Attwood is now a Professor also at a local Brisbane University. More information can be obtained by clicking on Dr Attwood's website.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
The Language of Autism Transition into Employment for an Adult with Aspergers Syndrome
This morning I undertook a podcast with Arman Khodaei an adult on the Autism Spectrum. Should you be interested in listening to this podcast please double click in the Title of this post The Language of Autism Transition into Employment for an Adult with Aspergers Syndrome
Friday, December 3, 2010
Communicating with the person on the Autism Spectrum
As an adult on the Autism Spectrum you often feel very isolated and find it difficult to communicate with people. What I need to point out here is that although a person on the Autism Spectrum may look 'normal' there is in fact a lot going on behind the scenes. Quite simply the family of the person with Autism often goes through painful silence. The symptoms are not always obvious at first and you really need to live or be around a person on the Autism Spectrum for prolonged periods to actually know what is going on and how difficult day to day function can be. Some of the difficulties experienced for the person on the Autism Spectrum include.
1. A sense of loneliness from people around them.
2. Heightened anxiety and increased levels of stress.
3. Insomnia issues.
4. Intense interests and non stop need for reassurance
5. Too much talk on special interest
6. Low self esteem
7. Frustration, anger or anxiety
8. An inability to understand the outside world.
9. Explanation of things in a different for the person on the Autism Spectrum.
10.Lack of friends or social networks
11.Unemployment and frustration with bureaucracy/hierarchy.
12.Poor executive function
13.Different thinking patterns and thought processes
14.Finding it difficult to have or maintain a lighter side.
The list goes on and persons on the Autism Spectrum are affected differently.
In school because there is the scaffolding and the structure, intervention and support can be easier but for the adult this structure needs to exist in terms of employment support. The workplace has to provide a supportive structure similar to the school environment. Although it is not perfect it helps to provide security, a means of a routine and intervention where possible.
For a person on the spectrum it is obvious that early intervention provides a greater means of support but it does not provide an elimination of the Autism Spectrum itself. The earlier a person is diagnosed the more likely chance that they will obtain essential support. This does not mean though that adults diagnosed later in life are disadvantaged. Across the board support needs to be available for persons on the Autism Spectrum despite their age. What is important is to provide scaffolding behind secondary school into adulthood. How can this be achieved? Well the main solution would be to ensure adults on the Autism Spectrum are employed or live in some kind of structured community depending on their level of functioning. Support varies from adult to adult but scaffolding into adulthood does provide a means of structure and more importantly a means of obtaining support and essential services. What is needed is disability employment agencies and for these agencies to provide workplace support. The workplace is in itself a means of socialisation beyond school. If the school system equips a person for the necessary tools within the early socialisation process, then it is expected that the workplace be a means of post schooling socialisation as well. Again there exists a means of hierarchy for the average person within the work environment similar to the school. Compared to the school, teachers and authority figures give way to supervisors, managers and executives etc. Perhaps the early socialisation process within school nurtures a person within the workplace structure depending on performance and ability?
Governments need to take a hard look at life beyond school for adults on the Autism Spectrum as well as other groups. Is the school system providing the necessary support post school or are people on the Autism Spectrum simply falling through the cracks? In my own case the school system failed to provide support and I encountered a stumbling block post schooling. More importantly I missed out on how to socialise which seriously impacted on me making proper friends within school and out of school. This necessary means of socialisation also meant that beyond school not having the necessary social skills severely impacted on my ability to establish connections. A person on the Autism Spectrum is crippled later in life by not having the necessary social skills to equip and support them with establishing networks and navigating the workplace beyond school. Well it did in my situation.
Families of persons on the Autism Spectrum and the Autistic person live in their own world beyond childhood. Some do establish meaningful networks and it appears that with early intervention they obtain some assistance with navigating the social world and make the evolutionary steps as they become older. What I think is apparent and again I am thinking and stating from my own situation, that a person on the Autism Spectrum needs a lot of support. It is like a whole army of people are required to assist the Autistic adult with executive function, understanding the world around them and communicating with other people. More importantly such an army of people also need at times to explain to the Autistic person what a person may have said and how this should or should not be interpreted. Often the difficulty is that people are not always aware of how to assist the Autistic person where necessary. Just having a different means of wiring and processing information can make the task very challenging. Communication is possible but people need to be patient and take the time to explain to the Autistic person what is happening and ensuring the Autistic person is clear on what they are being informed about. Aspies just process information differently and it is not our fault. We do not expect the world to be our way but it would be good if there was a two way street. Aspies can understand the NT world but the NT world also need to understand the Aspie world to some extent also. Aspies just have different wiring and we may struggle to see things the same way as other people do. If anyone is interested in asking questions of how a person with Autism thinks or needs help in communicating with a person on the Autism Spectrum, then please visit Dr Tony Attwood's website in my links page on this blog for more information. Not everyone on the Autism Spectrum is like "Rain Man", more and more people need to watch the movie "Adam" starring Hugh Dancey who is a man with Asperger Syndrome. Mozart and the Whale is a good movie also.
1. A sense of loneliness from people around them.
2. Heightened anxiety and increased levels of stress.
3. Insomnia issues.
4. Intense interests and non stop need for reassurance
5. Too much talk on special interest
6. Low self esteem
7. Frustration, anger or anxiety
8. An inability to understand the outside world.
9. Explanation of things in a different for the person on the Autism Spectrum.
10.Lack of friends or social networks
11.Unemployment and frustration with bureaucracy/hierarchy.
12.Poor executive function
13.Different thinking patterns and thought processes
14.Finding it difficult to have or maintain a lighter side.
The list goes on and persons on the Autism Spectrum are affected differently.
In school because there is the scaffolding and the structure, intervention and support can be easier but for the adult this structure needs to exist in terms of employment support. The workplace has to provide a supportive structure similar to the school environment. Although it is not perfect it helps to provide security, a means of a routine and intervention where possible.
For a person on the spectrum it is obvious that early intervention provides a greater means of support but it does not provide an elimination of the Autism Spectrum itself. The earlier a person is diagnosed the more likely chance that they will obtain essential support. This does not mean though that adults diagnosed later in life are disadvantaged. Across the board support needs to be available for persons on the Autism Spectrum despite their age. What is important is to provide scaffolding behind secondary school into adulthood. How can this be achieved? Well the main solution would be to ensure adults on the Autism Spectrum are employed or live in some kind of structured community depending on their level of functioning. Support varies from adult to adult but scaffolding into adulthood does provide a means of structure and more importantly a means of obtaining support and essential services. What is needed is disability employment agencies and for these agencies to provide workplace support. The workplace is in itself a means of socialisation beyond school. If the school system equips a person for the necessary tools within the early socialisation process, then it is expected that the workplace be a means of post schooling socialisation as well. Again there exists a means of hierarchy for the average person within the work environment similar to the school. Compared to the school, teachers and authority figures give way to supervisors, managers and executives etc. Perhaps the early socialisation process within school nurtures a person within the workplace structure depending on performance and ability?
Governments need to take a hard look at life beyond school for adults on the Autism Spectrum as well as other groups. Is the school system providing the necessary support post school or are people on the Autism Spectrum simply falling through the cracks? In my own case the school system failed to provide support and I encountered a stumbling block post schooling. More importantly I missed out on how to socialise which seriously impacted on me making proper friends within school and out of school. This necessary means of socialisation also meant that beyond school not having the necessary social skills severely impacted on my ability to establish connections. A person on the Autism Spectrum is crippled later in life by not having the necessary social skills to equip and support them with establishing networks and navigating the workplace beyond school. Well it did in my situation.
Families of persons on the Autism Spectrum and the Autistic person live in their own world beyond childhood. Some do establish meaningful networks and it appears that with early intervention they obtain some assistance with navigating the social world and make the evolutionary steps as they become older. What I think is apparent and again I am thinking and stating from my own situation, that a person on the Autism Spectrum needs a lot of support. It is like a whole army of people are required to assist the Autistic adult with executive function, understanding the world around them and communicating with other people. More importantly such an army of people also need at times to explain to the Autistic person what a person may have said and how this should or should not be interpreted. Often the difficulty is that people are not always aware of how to assist the Autistic person where necessary. Just having a different means of wiring and processing information can make the task very challenging. Communication is possible but people need to be patient and take the time to explain to the Autistic person what is happening and ensuring the Autistic person is clear on what they are being informed about. Aspies just process information differently and it is not our fault. We do not expect the world to be our way but it would be good if there was a two way street. Aspies can understand the NT world but the NT world also need to understand the Aspie world to some extent also. Aspies just have different wiring and we may struggle to see things the same way as other people do. If anyone is interested in asking questions of how a person with Autism thinks or needs help in communicating with a person on the Autism Spectrum, then please visit Dr Tony Attwood's website in my links page on this blog for more information. Not everyone on the Autism Spectrum is like "Rain Man", more and more people need to watch the movie "Adam" starring Hugh Dancey who is a man with Asperger Syndrome. Mozart and the Whale is a good movie also.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The relationship that once was
Despite being 38 years of age, I was once in a relationship but this sadly ended due to the issue of immigration. Also the person whom I was in a relationship with has now moved on as she has met someone else. Meeting her though was a story in itself.
In 2008, I came into contact with this female Aspie through Facebook. I was 36 years of age and despite being this age, she was my first real girlfriend. It was on a trip to the United States that I met up with her in the central part of the United States. I met her in October 2008, and we spent 2 weeks together. It was a really happy period in my life as it was the first time I experienced love and happiness.
I have to be admired for my brave achievements. Can you imagine traveling on a plane out of New York to the central part of the United States of America? How would you feel not knowing anyone there and traveling over the centre of the country to a distant place? This is how I felt as I traveled from New York to the centre of America. I can remember looking out of the window of the plane as it flew across darkness. I could see the flickering lights of the mid west as I approached the airport. I looked out of the plane window and could see a layer of cloud as it approached. Then the plane made its decent into the airport. As both she and I were to meet for the first time, I could recognise her by her brown coat and a "Welcome Garry" sign. She was there with her brother and I can remember hugging for the first time and holding her hand. I remember observing the mid western town around me and meeting with her parents. Coming from a different culture, I was not used to coffee and no bread or cereal for breakfast which both she and her family had on offer.
As it was a long distance relationship, sadly it was never going to work as immigration made it impossible. Both she and I did become engaged, and I even purchased a ring. I did not have a career path nor a means of living in the United States. More importantly what would become of me if I lived in American and things did not work out? It was just impossible and both she and I have moved on now. She has since become engaged to someone else and I have moved on myself. It is an experience worth writing about though because I experience fond memories. I received lots of nice cards and happy letters. When I look back on it, I think it was a very brave adventure. It was perhaps even the hand of God providing divine intervention in shaping the lives of two people. If Asperger Syndrome does not exist then why do some people on the spectrum have very interesting stories? I have many other interesting stories to tell like the one above mentioned. At a seminar with Dr Tony Attwood I read out the relationship I had while I stood beside Tony as he supported me as I read it. This was the relationship that once was.
In 2008, I came into contact with this female Aspie through Facebook. I was 36 years of age and despite being this age, she was my first real girlfriend. It was on a trip to the United States that I met up with her in the central part of the United States. I met her in October 2008, and we spent 2 weeks together. It was a really happy period in my life as it was the first time I experienced love and happiness.
I have to be admired for my brave achievements. Can you imagine traveling on a plane out of New York to the central part of the United States of America? How would you feel not knowing anyone there and traveling over the centre of the country to a distant place? This is how I felt as I traveled from New York to the centre of America. I can remember looking out of the window of the plane as it flew across darkness. I could see the flickering lights of the mid west as I approached the airport. I looked out of the plane window and could see a layer of cloud as it approached. Then the plane made its decent into the airport. As both she and I were to meet for the first time, I could recognise her by her brown coat and a "Welcome Garry" sign. She was there with her brother and I can remember hugging for the first time and holding her hand. I remember observing the mid western town around me and meeting with her parents. Coming from a different culture, I was not used to coffee and no bread or cereal for breakfast which both she and her family had on offer.
As it was a long distance relationship, sadly it was never going to work as immigration made it impossible. Both she and I did become engaged, and I even purchased a ring. I did not have a career path nor a means of living in the United States. More importantly what would become of me if I lived in American and things did not work out? It was just impossible and both she and I have moved on now. She has since become engaged to someone else and I have moved on myself. It is an experience worth writing about though because I experience fond memories. I received lots of nice cards and happy letters. When I look back on it, I think it was a very brave adventure. It was perhaps even the hand of God providing divine intervention in shaping the lives of two people. If Asperger Syndrome does not exist then why do some people on the spectrum have very interesting stories? I have many other interesting stories to tell like the one above mentioned. At a seminar with Dr Tony Attwood I read out the relationship I had while I stood beside Tony as he supported me as I read it. This was the relationship that once was.
Being an adult on the Autism Spectrum
For me being on the Autism Spectrum is a positive as you get to see the world from an outside perspective. At times the world around you can be confusing but it can also be interesting as well. I measure my own success in terms of my achievements. I do not see it as important to compare myself to others as I am not like them. My life has evolved differently and making such a comparison only causes me to feel frustrated, and disappointed.
For other adults on the Autism Spectrum, their challenges are different to my own. However for them they handle the world as best they can. Writing has been a release to me and having recently written a book concerning my own challenges and successes in finding employment as an adult with Asperger Syndrome. I would encourage other adults on the spectrum to write if they are able to. Writing is a therapeutic means of getting out all of the challenges, and difficulties experienced in your life. The only way to educate the world around us about the Autism Spectrum is to actually write about it and share your experiences. People do not see Autism and sadly too much false assumptions are based on the movie "Rain Man" This image needs to change and it is necessary that the Autism Spectrum is reflected as a true and honest means of persons, especially adults affected by it.
Adults with Autism are still in the wilderness in terms of support but more is becoming known about Autism in adults. It just takes time for more necessary information to become apparent and available to the wider community. This is beginning to happen and we are moving forwards rather than backward. Over time more and more will become apparent concerning adults and especially my own person accounts, so please stay tuned. I believe we need to be optimistic about the future so let us begin the process of providing necessary education.
For other adults on the Autism Spectrum, their challenges are different to my own. However for them they handle the world as best they can. Writing has been a release to me and having recently written a book concerning my own challenges and successes in finding employment as an adult with Asperger Syndrome. I would encourage other adults on the spectrum to write if they are able to. Writing is a therapeutic means of getting out all of the challenges, and difficulties experienced in your life. The only way to educate the world around us about the Autism Spectrum is to actually write about it and share your experiences. People do not see Autism and sadly too much false assumptions are based on the movie "Rain Man" This image needs to change and it is necessary that the Autism Spectrum is reflected as a true and honest means of persons, especially adults affected by it.
Adults with Autism are still in the wilderness in terms of support but more is becoming known about Autism in adults. It just takes time for more necessary information to become apparent and available to the wider community. This is beginning to happen and we are moving forwards rather than backward. Over time more and more will become apparent concerning adults and especially my own person accounts, so please stay tuned. I believe we need to be optimistic about the future so let us begin the process of providing necessary education.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
The tribal factor
You may ask yourself what is the tribal factor? The tribal factor applies to a group or society of people who try to convert other people to their way of thinking and believing more so than accepting them for who they are as individuals. In Australia, the tribal factor is very common. I say this because if you are different or act differently you are either alienated, put down or ignored. More importantly nobody really takes the time to get to know you.
I think the tribal factor is very common in Australia also in that people believe that so called state lines determine a person's position in society. I mean who really cares which side of the line you come from? Does it really matter? For the past 30 years both Queensland and New South Wales have fallen out of line with Eastern Summer Time. Rather than resolve the issue there has instead been a constant argument as to why there should no be a single time zone. It makes sense that all of the east coast of Australia remains on one time zone and yet it does not. More importantly the roads in this country are a disgrace. Brisbane especially in that the roads are struggling to cope with demand. Thankfully Campbell Newman the Lord Mayor of Brisbane is trying to do something about it!
The tribal culture tends to exclude persons who do not fit into the mould of being a typical Australian. If you also reveal to an Australian what needs improvement or you direct their attention to something that needs to be done, you instead of getting a response, receive a criticism. The criticism may be "Ah mate you're not an Aussie".
Australia could be a very prosperous nation if the politicians did something to actually run the country. Australia could also greatly improve if this tall poppy syndrome were to cease. Instead of cutting down people who try to make a go of life, why don't we admire them. It seems that if they can kick an odd shaped ball around when they actually do on a sporting field and tackle each other to the ground, that this is something that is worshiped, and the grog to go with it. Now if this applies to business or enterprise then the story is different. Australia needs to lift itself out of the veil of complacency and improve infrastructure. Lets get decent roads, railways and engineering happening in this country. Build a decent road between Brisbane and Sydney to begin with and also introduce a fast train to service both major centres. Bring Brisbane into line with the southern capitals during summer time and if the rest of Queensland don't like being on Australian Eastern Daylight Saving Time then let them go alone. I mean the rest of Queensland doesn't want to have anything to do with Brisbane anyhow.
The most important thing is bring in awareness of Autism into our schools. State governments if they are to continue to exist need to ensure that it is their responsibility that persons on the Autism Spectrum are looking after in school. Bullying and isolation within the school system is clearly not acceptable. I know because I endured 5 years of absolute hell in the secondary school system and this has been responsible for a lot of the hurt I endure today. People say that I am negative, no I am honest and literal. If I am negative then why do I suggest Australia can do more and more importantly why do I suggest the need to come out of the veil of complacency? Australia has a lot of engineering potential and infrastructure improvement. If the Australia dollar is starting to fall below the American Dollar then lets do something about it. Make Australia more competitive instead of hanging onto America's Apron Strings.
Diversity needs to happen in Australia. If people are different and don't think the same way as other people, try to learn from them, understand them or help them where you can. Isn't this the Australian term "giving someone a fair go?". Too often people are judgmental and more importantly self centred. To defend myself, yes I am not perfect either but at least I am prepared to overcome my faults to the best of my ability. If a company provides good service then provide positive feedback to the company so that it will provide better service. Everyone can make a difference and a great deal more can be done. Just because Australia is isolated and New Zealand also does not mean there is an excuse to have separate thinking. Australia needs to play its part in the world at large. Australia is a lucky country and not many people realise this. People can do what they like, when they like and have the freedom of choice. Appreciate it as it is something to be grateful for and treasure. Lets start opening our minds more and lift ourselves out of this veil of complacency as it doesn't really achieve anything.
I think the tribal factor is very common in Australia also in that people believe that so called state lines determine a person's position in society. I mean who really cares which side of the line you come from? Does it really matter? For the past 30 years both Queensland and New South Wales have fallen out of line with Eastern Summer Time. Rather than resolve the issue there has instead been a constant argument as to why there should no be a single time zone. It makes sense that all of the east coast of Australia remains on one time zone and yet it does not. More importantly the roads in this country are a disgrace. Brisbane especially in that the roads are struggling to cope with demand. Thankfully Campbell Newman the Lord Mayor of Brisbane is trying to do something about it!
The tribal culture tends to exclude persons who do not fit into the mould of being a typical Australian. If you also reveal to an Australian what needs improvement or you direct their attention to something that needs to be done, you instead of getting a response, receive a criticism. The criticism may be "Ah mate you're not an Aussie".
Australia could be a very prosperous nation if the politicians did something to actually run the country. Australia could also greatly improve if this tall poppy syndrome were to cease. Instead of cutting down people who try to make a go of life, why don't we admire them. It seems that if they can kick an odd shaped ball around when they actually do on a sporting field and tackle each other to the ground, that this is something that is worshiped, and the grog to go with it. Now if this applies to business or enterprise then the story is different. Australia needs to lift itself out of the veil of complacency and improve infrastructure. Lets get decent roads, railways and engineering happening in this country. Build a decent road between Brisbane and Sydney to begin with and also introduce a fast train to service both major centres. Bring Brisbane into line with the southern capitals during summer time and if the rest of Queensland don't like being on Australian Eastern Daylight Saving Time then let them go alone. I mean the rest of Queensland doesn't want to have anything to do with Brisbane anyhow.
The most important thing is bring in awareness of Autism into our schools. State governments if they are to continue to exist need to ensure that it is their responsibility that persons on the Autism Spectrum are looking after in school. Bullying and isolation within the school system is clearly not acceptable. I know because I endured 5 years of absolute hell in the secondary school system and this has been responsible for a lot of the hurt I endure today. People say that I am negative, no I am honest and literal. If I am negative then why do I suggest Australia can do more and more importantly why do I suggest the need to come out of the veil of complacency? Australia has a lot of engineering potential and infrastructure improvement. If the Australia dollar is starting to fall below the American Dollar then lets do something about it. Make Australia more competitive instead of hanging onto America's Apron Strings.
Diversity needs to happen in Australia. If people are different and don't think the same way as other people, try to learn from them, understand them or help them where you can. Isn't this the Australian term "giving someone a fair go?". Too often people are judgmental and more importantly self centred. To defend myself, yes I am not perfect either but at least I am prepared to overcome my faults to the best of my ability. If a company provides good service then provide positive feedback to the company so that it will provide better service. Everyone can make a difference and a great deal more can be done. Just because Australia is isolated and New Zealand also does not mean there is an excuse to have separate thinking. Australia needs to play its part in the world at large. Australia is a lucky country and not many people realise this. People can do what they like, when they like and have the freedom of choice. Appreciate it as it is something to be grateful for and treasure. Lets start opening our minds more and lift ourselves out of this veil of complacency as it doesn't really achieve anything.
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