Yesterday I did not feel well and spent half the day in bed feeling the effects of a cold and burn out. I am feeling somewhat better today but weak at times. I often feel like some kind of deviant as people always look at me as who I am rather than how I function and this can often be overwhelming to bare at times. I am soon to start house sitting nearby to where I can look after two cats in a big house. The lady who owns it is in her late 70's and I have sat for her last time and am happy to do so again. She goes overseas on her own and I house sit for her while she is away. As I still live with my parents and they with me, we can get on each other's nerves at times. I also detest the way that greedy landlords rent out dwellings which they do not give a crap about charging high rent on low income earners. This would be the reality for me if I did not have the support of my parents. Changes are also happening within the UQ Library as the university librarian has just announced his resignation. I fear everything is going to go back to where it was before. It is no joy working on a ship without a captain. Morale is so low also within the library and people are afraid of losing their jobs. I have also heard recently that with the automation of library shelving that shelving positions will be done away with. It is hard to feel security at times. It is also hard when everything again is changing within the work environment and I really don't know what is going on? I know I am in a menial position but the atmosphere around me does affect my well being within the job. I also was approached by a staff member who said to me 'why don't you angry?". I really do not know what this person meant but times are precarious. At times just keeping a job is a big undertaking. What will happen in the future? How will this carbon tax affect me? Why is it so hard making ends meet and what is the purpose of life? It all becomes so confusing at times. I really feel alone at the moment and people just seem unhappy, tense and angry.
I am realsing that changing the world is not possible so I just have to be content with how things are for the moment. Disappointments are not always my fault but more so in areas I cannot always control. At the moment I am just in survival mode and coping as best I can. Worrying about or being concerned about others is also just draining so I just focus on what I can do and undertake within my own ability. People seem to see me as some kind of deviant that intentionally goes out to make some kind of trouble whereas they do not see just how hard it is to be honest to live the life of a person on the Autism Spectrum. The world is such an uncertain place but this is beyond my control.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Australia and its struggling identity
I am 39 years old and I am still coming to terms with what I call Australia's struggling identity. I argue that Australia is a country confused by its identity and place in the geographic world. For anyone reading this comment they probably think I am making a very sweeping comment and observation about Australia's struggling identity. Australia has a system of government largely borrowed from three different governments. The Westminster model largely from the United Kingdom, Preferential voting from the Scandinavian countries and the Senate borrowed from the American system originally Greek of course meaning (House of Elders). For Australia to become a republic this would be a mammoth undertaking. Not only would the current system need to change but also the state governments. Merely swapping a ceremonial role of the current Governor General to a President would require significant and important change over and accrual of powers. It is very dangerous to just remove the Governor General and replace this person with a President. Mainly because what powers would the President have and would they be party aligned even if chosen by the parliament? The only real proposal that seems to have any merit is the one devised by Malcolm Turnbull but again a lot more work needs to be done.
Australia seems to be overwhelmed by its size and affected by its remoteness. There seems to be the government versus the people but no authority figure with the prime minister seeming to have more power. Despite it being a model that still relies on a foreign head of state, there is a certain level of stability and protection within the role of the Governor General. The Governor General should not be a political and represents the monarch within some capacities but also represents Australia also. I think the Governor General's position is an important but yet unknown one by most Australians.
When I have been overseas, the distances between travel is much less. Whereas in Australia we have very large distances and often large areas of nothingness. I think we are subconsciously aware of these factors and this has become entrenched in our psyche. We see ourselves as not part of the rest of the world as we are too far from it and those of us who have not traveled may not really understand what I mean exactly. When you land and return to Australia it is virtually like being on a foreign landscape and planet. The trees are different, the houses are different, the climate different etc. I have also noticed how much slower people are in talking, thinking, acting and walking. You really have to notice it.
Australia is losing a lot of its identity as I think Australians saw themselves as settlers and not innovators. They did what they best could to survive and had not time to look into the arts, poetry or creativity etc. I mean what can you largely do when you are surrounded or witness desert in the centre. The desert goes on and on and Europeans Australians struggle to live in it. It is a no go zone for us and we prefer to remain in the cities. I think our mindset is perhaps still largely European but my thoughts are probably different as I think more in abstract like an Aspie. I question things a lot and I am constantly processing information in my mind. I work out why things are the way they are here and why Australia thinks and acts differently to the rest of the world. Australia is a very large island and if you see the centre of it you realise just how vast it is as a country. Ask yourself does Australia have a struggling identity? Are Australians really a true reflection of a land foreign to them or are we really misplaced Europeans trying to make sense of the place?
Australia seems to be overwhelmed by its size and affected by its remoteness. There seems to be the government versus the people but no authority figure with the prime minister seeming to have more power. Despite it being a model that still relies on a foreign head of state, there is a certain level of stability and protection within the role of the Governor General. The Governor General should not be a political and represents the monarch within some capacities but also represents Australia also. I think the Governor General's position is an important but yet unknown one by most Australians.
When I have been overseas, the distances between travel is much less. Whereas in Australia we have very large distances and often large areas of nothingness. I think we are subconsciously aware of these factors and this has become entrenched in our psyche. We see ourselves as not part of the rest of the world as we are too far from it and those of us who have not traveled may not really understand what I mean exactly. When you land and return to Australia it is virtually like being on a foreign landscape and planet. The trees are different, the houses are different, the climate different etc. I have also noticed how much slower people are in talking, thinking, acting and walking. You really have to notice it.
Australia is losing a lot of its identity as I think Australians saw themselves as settlers and not innovators. They did what they best could to survive and had not time to look into the arts, poetry or creativity etc. I mean what can you largely do when you are surrounded or witness desert in the centre. The desert goes on and on and Europeans Australians struggle to live in it. It is a no go zone for us and we prefer to remain in the cities. I think our mindset is perhaps still largely European but my thoughts are probably different as I think more in abstract like an Aspie. I question things a lot and I am constantly processing information in my mind. I work out why things are the way they are here and why Australia thinks and acts differently to the rest of the world. Australia is a very large island and if you see the centre of it you realise just how vast it is as a country. Ask yourself does Australia have a struggling identity? Are Australians really a true reflection of a land foreign to them or are we really misplaced Europeans trying to make sense of the place?
Why is it always my fault!?
I always feel that I have to be on the attack. I know certain individuals who hate my guts and want to have nothing to do with me. It is always one sided. I am always hurting them but when it comes to them hurting me, nobody wants to listen. I am concerned about my future. I just cannot be myself and I am constantly criticised and misunderstood for supposedly not trying hard enough. I am 39 years old and I cannot live an independent lifestyle because the cost of living is so high. The federal government also chooses to ignore disability so what hope do I have? I live within this tribal culture which insists that everything is one way. I cannot be who I am without people making false assumptions and choosing to not have anything to do with me. At times I wonder why do I go on living? People just don't understand me and no matter what I say, think or feel I am just told or criticised as such. I just need help and I am not getting it! People just don't get me and are so cruel. At times I have thought of how can I escape this situation? What is the point of living if whatever I do or say just causes me to be further criticised? My parents are getting older and I think they are fearful of what will happen to me after they pass on. Will I be alone and I will have nobody to care or look after me? I just don't know what to do at times and I feel I live in a very intolerant society which does not give a stuff about disabilities.
I just cannot be myself. People want me to be like them and think like they do but I think differently. Do they not see this?! People say that I have hurt them but how many times have they hurt me? Do I have a say at all?! It is always my fault and yes I may have hurt certain individuals but yes they have hurt me also. They do not want to have anything to do with me. They hate my guts and they feel I have offended them just by being who I am. This is not fair nor is it right. I even remember recalling a panic attack in which I saw such people around me as I laying dying. I remember their words "oh well it is good he is going anyway as nobody really understood him". I just feel alone in terms of my family situation. They need to make an effort and stop thinking that everything is just one way. Luckily I have had some correspondence a family connection here in Brisbane whom is able to understand some shared experiences. Must it always be my fault? I just do not know how much longer I can go on living like this. It sickens me the whole situation. I am not the person people perceive me to be and I wish people would stop trying to insist or make me neuro typical because I am not. How would you like it if I forced you to change to my way of thinking? How would you find this? Then stop doing it to me. I don't like it and nor am I comfortable with it. This government needs to listen to any information which is available concerning the disability productivity commission. Disability can no longer be ignored. Please start to understand the Autism Spectrum better because pressuring people who are different to conform only stresses them. We need more and greater understanding and awareness. This is what I am trying to do do and feel at times that I am constantly hitting my head against a brick wall. I cannot live on my own without being totally squeezed and drained financially and added to this, I just struggle into trying to fit into your society which I think is largely unfair and discriminates. Prime Minister Gillard try to understand if you have a heart because people out there are desperately crying out for help and you need to listen! Also Tony Abbott leader of the opposition listen and stop mud slinging as I am tired of it. Yes I need help and I am trying very hard to get it. Think also of some of the other Aspies also who are struggling to find help also. Why does this country have to be like this?
I just cannot be myself. People want me to be like them and think like they do but I think differently. Do they not see this?! People say that I have hurt them but how many times have they hurt me? Do I have a say at all?! It is always my fault and yes I may have hurt certain individuals but yes they have hurt me also. They do not want to have anything to do with me. They hate my guts and they feel I have offended them just by being who I am. This is not fair nor is it right. I even remember recalling a panic attack in which I saw such people around me as I laying dying. I remember their words "oh well it is good he is going anyway as nobody really understood him". I just feel alone in terms of my family situation. They need to make an effort and stop thinking that everything is just one way. Luckily I have had some correspondence a family connection here in Brisbane whom is able to understand some shared experiences. Must it always be my fault? I just do not know how much longer I can go on living like this. It sickens me the whole situation. I am not the person people perceive me to be and I wish people would stop trying to insist or make me neuro typical because I am not. How would you like it if I forced you to change to my way of thinking? How would you find this? Then stop doing it to me. I don't like it and nor am I comfortable with it. This government needs to listen to any information which is available concerning the disability productivity commission. Disability can no longer be ignored. Please start to understand the Autism Spectrum better because pressuring people who are different to conform only stresses them. We need more and greater understanding and awareness. This is what I am trying to do do and feel at times that I am constantly hitting my head against a brick wall. I cannot live on my own without being totally squeezed and drained financially and added to this, I just struggle into trying to fit into your society which I think is largely unfair and discriminates. Prime Minister Gillard try to understand if you have a heart because people out there are desperately crying out for help and you need to listen! Also Tony Abbott leader of the opposition listen and stop mud slinging as I am tired of it. Yes I need help and I am trying very hard to get it. Think also of some of the other Aspies also who are struggling to find help also. Why does this country have to be like this?
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Books sales to Aspies Australia and abroad
I thought I would provide some statistics of adults on the Autism Spectrum who have purchased my book "I Want To Work An Asperger Story". I thought I would provide some statistics of where books have sold and where adults on the Autism reside. Books can still be purchased through my website http://www.garryburge.com via the homepage
Northern Ireland 1
New York 1
North Carolina 1
Belgium 1
Ireland 1
Australia 8
England 4
Rejections 1
Total Sales 17
I encourage more adults to purchase the book if they can as I believe the book will help you. The purchase of books by persons not on the Autism Spectrum has represented the highest figures but amongst adults on the Autism Spectrum the figures above reflect how many Aspies have purchased it. I would like to take the opportunity of thanking personally the adults from Australia and abroad and I hope the book has been able to help you.
Non Aspies
Australia 64
England 5
Ireland 2
United States 2
Canada 1
New Zealand 1
Book Donations 16
Non inclusions 3 (Books rejected, not sent back and lost etc)
Asperger Services Australia book sales I am not really aware of so these I cannot include.
Northern Ireland 1
New York 1
North Carolina 1
Belgium 1
Ireland 1
Australia 8
England 4
Rejections 1
Total Sales 17
I encourage more adults to purchase the book if they can as I believe the book will help you. The purchase of books by persons not on the Autism Spectrum has represented the highest figures but amongst adults on the Autism Spectrum the figures above reflect how many Aspies have purchased it. I would like to take the opportunity of thanking personally the adults from Australia and abroad and I hope the book has been able to help you.
Non Aspies
Australia 64
England 5
Ireland 2
United States 2
Canada 1
New Zealand 1
Book Donations 16
Non inclusions 3 (Books rejected, not sent back and lost etc)
Asperger Services Australia book sales I am not really aware of so these I cannot include.
The eyes of an Aspie
I think research needs to go into the studying the eyes of an Aspie. Aspies may tend to process and use their eyes differently to other people. Maybe the reason why Aspies can also have problems with light sensitivity and processing information. I have noticed that Aspies tend to have fixed eye stares or lack of dilation when meeting with them. For Aspies the greatest assimilation of information may be through the eyes but this in itself may occur differently to other people. I think more research is required into the eyes of Aspies. A person on the Autism Spectrum can also be wrongly perceived as shifty or uninterested because we may find it hard to stare directly into the eyes of other people and also a major problem with job interviews and socialising? Just my thoughts anyway
Please watch this video clip of Gary Numan who is supposedly Aspie and look at his eyes and you may realise what I am talking about.
Please watch this video clip of Gary Numan who is supposedly Aspie and look at his eyes and you may realise what I am talking about.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Why hierarchy?
I often have a tug a war with hierarchy. When I do something to upset it, I know the consequences. Why then does it exist if it is proven to fail or be insufficient? Hierarchy I believe exists to control NT's (Neuro Typicals) but Aspies see everyone as different. A person who is a manager just sits in a chair in a closed office and to get something done why not tell the person at the top as it involves less people to deal with. Hierarchy is just an annoyance. Working in a hierarchical structure is very maddening at times. It requires 5 people to change a light bulb or to report a fault in the workplace. Why are NT's so controlled by it then? I think unlike Aspies, NT's feel that a person in authority provides them with a sense of direction. They want someone to tell them what to do or to obtain permission of some kind. Aspies however will just go ahead and do it. An example being an issue with a machine that is not working properly. The person at the counter who I am supposed to tell is busy and they will probably forget, couldn't be bothered and not have time anyway. So why not just report it to the manager as after all it has to be reported to this person anyhow? Aspies and hierarchy just feel like they are at battle with each other. It is difficult to actually tell someone above you of something they may be doing that is wrong because hierarchy demands that you can't. It seems pointless as why not just tell the person? The very nature of hierarchy just seems pointless. You don't know when you have done something wrong until it hits you like headache.
I think NT's like to be controlled whereas Aspies like to be directed. Once a routine is established an Aspie becomes professional within it but once this is broken anxiety goes beyond the ceiling. Hierarchy is just confusing but I guess it is just some control mechanism designed to keep unruly people in place.
I think NT's like to be controlled whereas Aspies like to be directed. Once a routine is established an Aspie becomes professional within it but once this is broken anxiety goes beyond the ceiling. Hierarchy is just confusing but I guess it is just some control mechanism designed to keep unruly people in place.
What it's like to hit a brick wall constantly
Awareness of the Autism Spectrum especially as an adult and in adults seems to ebb and flow. Sometimes I feel like I am making progress and others, I just feel like I am getting nowhere. It sometimes can just be so maddening. I virtually find at times that my stress levels peak at very high range and I am overcome with anxiety. If sleep is a problem then I have to take medication which I personally do not like taking as it affects some ways of my thinking and performance.
Apart from that I constantly feel at a loss in being understood by others around me. I am told on occasions that I just need to try harder but is this the answer to solve the problem? No it is a lot more broad than that. If I had of tried harder which I have done over and over again in my life then I would have gotten further in life socially. I often discuss what I term the second rate citizen feeling. This is because people are largely unaware of the difficulties I have socially. Whereas they can make friends, enter relationships and enhance job opportunities, I find myself struggling. Weekends are especially lonely and I have really no friends to go places with. I virtually stay at home and use Facebook as a means of socialising which I know is not healthy but what else can I do? It just seems so difficult.
This afternoon I felt deflated and angry. I wonder why this productivity commission into disability is being ignored by the Australian Federal Government. Also for a person who has sensory, sound, and issues to crowds is attending a function where I would be pushed around and face crows of people to not meet the minister but her secretary worth it? I just don't think so. I need better representation and although only my father would be able to attend, there are other important and key people who could attend also. I feel like I have let adults on the Autism Spectrum down by not attending but I think the major political parties need to get serious about disability. What can be done? I wonder if it will ever be achieved? Tomorrow I meet with a friend who trained me when I worked at Qleave. I have a sufficient network through employment I have undertaken but having the energy to constantly keep up with lobbying is difficult. I am pleased to hear that Asperger Services Australia is going national. This is good and hopefully make a difference. Tonight it is time to relax. Please remember to visit my website www.garryburge.com for updates on my support, services and advocacy.
Apart from that I constantly feel at a loss in being understood by others around me. I am told on occasions that I just need to try harder but is this the answer to solve the problem? No it is a lot more broad than that. If I had of tried harder which I have done over and over again in my life then I would have gotten further in life socially. I often discuss what I term the second rate citizen feeling. This is because people are largely unaware of the difficulties I have socially. Whereas they can make friends, enter relationships and enhance job opportunities, I find myself struggling. Weekends are especially lonely and I have really no friends to go places with. I virtually stay at home and use Facebook as a means of socialising which I know is not healthy but what else can I do? It just seems so difficult.
This afternoon I felt deflated and angry. I wonder why this productivity commission into disability is being ignored by the Australian Federal Government. Also for a person who has sensory, sound, and issues to crowds is attending a function where I would be pushed around and face crows of people to not meet the minister but her secretary worth it? I just don't think so. I need better representation and although only my father would be able to attend, there are other important and key people who could attend also. I feel like I have let adults on the Autism Spectrum down by not attending but I think the major political parties need to get serious about disability. What can be done? I wonder if it will ever be achieved? Tomorrow I meet with a friend who trained me when I worked at Qleave. I have a sufficient network through employment I have undertaken but having the energy to constantly keep up with lobbying is difficult. I am pleased to hear that Asperger Services Australia is going national. This is good and hopefully make a difference. Tonight it is time to relax. Please remember to visit my website www.garryburge.com for updates on my support, services and advocacy.
I have serious concerns
Yesterday I read an article which indicates that the prime minister of Australia is planning to ignore key measures which were recommended by the Australian Productivity Commission into disability in Australia. I have also declined to attend and apologised in that I will not be attending the community cabinet session organised by the Gillard Government. My meeting was originally to be with Jenny Macklin but I was informed instead that I could only meet with her secretary. I was also informed that Asperger Services Australia would not be able to attend the meeting. In all honesty I just wondered if it was really worth it? Without back up and key individuals as well as my father not being able to attend, I just don't think I really have the energy nor face the humiliation of just not being fully listened to.
I am increasingly feeling isolated and misunderstood in a society which seems to not want to nor care about persons with a disability. Also I feel that the federal and state governments are seriously letting people down. I heard yesterday on the news that former Labor Premier Peter Beattie is receiving a $1000 a day job. This is an outrage because in Queensland we have so many families struggling as it is and with this unplanned Carbon Tax soon to become a reality, I seriously am concerned about struggling families and more importantly Australia's economic outlook in the years to come. We are fast on the road to becoming a third world country where the cost of living is going to be beyond the basic family's budget.
I am very concerned about this current Federal Labor government. Yesterday I contacted a local mp's office and was informed that many people are angry and concerned and they hope something will happen soon. In my opinion it is not accountable and I think it is very concerning. Also any authority figure which represents a traditional one and that may not act in the interests of the Australian nation is seriously concerning. I really think honest people and respectable people are fast becoming no longer heard and this is alarming. What can be done? Also what about a representative who has indulged in behaviour which if authentic is covered up then what then is honesty? I feel many people are angry with the current situation and I believe they are concerned about their own livelihood when they struggle to make ends meet. If PM Gillard is serious about disability then she should look into the findings of the productivity commission better and do something about disability! I just feel powerless also in that nobody really understands me as a person either. I find people are becoming increasingly insular and nobody seems to really care about each other as people. Everyone has an opinion and we are living in very perilous times. I really think that all major parties need to consider the interests of the people first and not serve their own interests. I think certain individuals have served their own interests by letting people down whom they are supposed to really serve. I just wonder if things will change? Like many people I am struggling as best I can to survive and I live largely in socially isolation and people around me do not understand. I just feel at a total loss to know what to do and wonder if disability reform will ever happen in this country. People just don't seem to understand! Whatever happened to Professor Patrick McGorry who advocated for mental health? If nobody listens to him then Dr Tony Attwood and others including myself what hope do we have? It seriously is concerning. People just don't get it and I am continually frustrated in a world that simply does not understand! I really wonder what the whole point of existing is when I do all of this work and I just never seem to get anywhere. This world is really a mess and I hope things change for the better of humanity otherwise things are going to get worse!
Mental Health is also a major concern. People cannot just be doled out medication to just deal with loneliness when in all honesty services should be made available to them.
I am increasingly feeling isolated and misunderstood in a society which seems to not want to nor care about persons with a disability. Also I feel that the federal and state governments are seriously letting people down. I heard yesterday on the news that former Labor Premier Peter Beattie is receiving a $1000 a day job. This is an outrage because in Queensland we have so many families struggling as it is and with this unplanned Carbon Tax soon to become a reality, I seriously am concerned about struggling families and more importantly Australia's economic outlook in the years to come. We are fast on the road to becoming a third world country where the cost of living is going to be beyond the basic family's budget.
I am very concerned about this current Federal Labor government. Yesterday I contacted a local mp's office and was informed that many people are angry and concerned and they hope something will happen soon. In my opinion it is not accountable and I think it is very concerning. Also any authority figure which represents a traditional one and that may not act in the interests of the Australian nation is seriously concerning. I really think honest people and respectable people are fast becoming no longer heard and this is alarming. What can be done? Also what about a representative who has indulged in behaviour which if authentic is covered up then what then is honesty? I feel many people are angry with the current situation and I believe they are concerned about their own livelihood when they struggle to make ends meet. If PM Gillard is serious about disability then she should look into the findings of the productivity commission better and do something about disability! I just feel powerless also in that nobody really understands me as a person either. I find people are becoming increasingly insular and nobody seems to really care about each other as people. Everyone has an opinion and we are living in very perilous times. I really think that all major parties need to consider the interests of the people first and not serve their own interests. I think certain individuals have served their own interests by letting people down whom they are supposed to really serve. I just wonder if things will change? Like many people I am struggling as best I can to survive and I live largely in socially isolation and people around me do not understand. I just feel at a total loss to know what to do and wonder if disability reform will ever happen in this country. People just don't seem to understand! Whatever happened to Professor Patrick McGorry who advocated for mental health? If nobody listens to him then Dr Tony Attwood and others including myself what hope do we have? It seriously is concerning. People just don't get it and I am continually frustrated in a world that simply does not understand! I really wonder what the whole point of existing is when I do all of this work and I just never seem to get anywhere. This world is really a mess and I hope things change for the better of humanity otherwise things are going to get worse!
Mental Health is also a major concern. People cannot just be doled out medication to just deal with loneliness when in all honesty services should be made available to them.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
When your mind plays tricks on you updates to GarryBurge.Com
With a mind that constantly will analyze information it can also read too much into events and situations that just simply do not exist. As people are not always clear with their intentions or plans, my mind can sometimes assume things incorrectly. For instance I may misinterpret or misconstrue and event because I have received too little or not enough information. This creates difficult when there is no routine or reliable outcome to make things clearer.
When I was a student at university, I find it difficult to make friends. I often tried too hard to be friend people and scared them off by being too intense. I just could not understand what I was doing because I thought making a friend involved saying hello and trying to find similar interests which were the same as the other persons. I realised I needed to learn how to play a sport and chose tennis. When I first asked a person to play tennis with me as I thought the procedure of hitting the tennis ball over the net was easy, I found out that it was much harder. I embarrassed myself even when the person tried to help me to compensate for my poor co-ordination which ended up in a total disaster. I also attempted golf taking a few chunks here and there on the golf course. I just simply struggled in every way possible to try and fit in and be accepted. It just was not easy!
I find my mind sometimes reads into situations too much. I can totally assume the wrong thing and receive incorrect information. For instance if a person turns up late I wonder why they are not there exactly on time and try to remember a 15 minute leeway principle. After this period, I just think they have forgot and sometimes feel let down. I am not good with judging times and find myself at a person's place or event too early. I just fear being late. This applies to work also. I hate being late and especially stuck in traffic. That is the worst of all experiences.
Please note I have also updated my website with some slightly new information. I would encourage you too look at it www.garryburge.com
When I was a student at university, I find it difficult to make friends. I often tried too hard to be friend people and scared them off by being too intense. I just could not understand what I was doing because I thought making a friend involved saying hello and trying to find similar interests which were the same as the other persons. I realised I needed to learn how to play a sport and chose tennis. When I first asked a person to play tennis with me as I thought the procedure of hitting the tennis ball over the net was easy, I found out that it was much harder. I embarrassed myself even when the person tried to help me to compensate for my poor co-ordination which ended up in a total disaster. I also attempted golf taking a few chunks here and there on the golf course. I just simply struggled in every way possible to try and fit in and be accepted. It just was not easy!
I find my mind sometimes reads into situations too much. I can totally assume the wrong thing and receive incorrect information. For instance if a person turns up late I wonder why they are not there exactly on time and try to remember a 15 minute leeway principle. After this period, I just think they have forgot and sometimes feel let down. I am not good with judging times and find myself at a person's place or event too early. I just fear being late. This applies to work also. I hate being late and especially stuck in traffic. That is the worst of all experiences.
Please note I have also updated my website with some slightly new information. I would encourage you too look at it www.garryburge.com
Pushing myself from university
Study at university did not come easy for me. I failed first year and was excluded for one year. Not because I was lazy but because I was not up to academic standard. I did not give up, I persevered and made myself understand the requirements of academic course work. I taught myself how to write assignments and sit for exams. I also worked out a technique to get over the pass mark. No matter how much effort and energy I applied, I managed to get through. I really get annoyed at people who say that people who do Bachelor of Arts Degrees do it because they have nothing better to do or anybody can get through a BA degree. I think people who judge like this are narrow minded people. They need to think more before they open their mouths and make such ignorant and unfair comments. Some people can be so smug and rude when they do not realise it.
Working is not easy at times. It can be mentally draining and difficult but I try my best to survive as best I can. Every day can be a struggle but people should admire the few Aspies in employment for even though we may do common or menial jobs, just simply surviving is a big achievement.
Working is not easy at times. It can be mentally draining and difficult but I try my best to survive as best I can. Every day can be a struggle but people should admire the few Aspies in employment for even though we may do common or menial jobs, just simply surviving is a big achievement.
Why Australia is such an unproductive country
What does it feel like when you ask or more importantly you pay someone to do something and they do not turn up or change sometimes on their own terms? It is not a very good and efficient experience. Also why is it that when you criticse Australian culture in areas where it is weak that people become defensive and come out with this crap "mate it is not Aussie to criticise Australia" or "Australian's don't like to be criticised etc". The only way a culture is going to improve and become more efficient is that it has to listen to criticism and either take it on board or try to change it. I find Australia and more particularly Australians a backward thinking group of people. Not all as some have been able to broaden their minds but others simply exist in this defensive and hostile culture.
I think the biggest problem with most Australians is that when you make personal criticism or you dare to think that you are cut down instantly. People go on the defense and attack or try and think it is their place to conform you rather than to try and understand. It just seems to be the way of things here. In work environments I wonder why good people are so few and far between. Good managers are rare but the ones who are in this position and exercise good leadership should be supported and assisted. This is the way I see it anyhow.
It amazes me that when you pay someone to do a service either they don't show up or turn up late. Why do they do this?! If you are paying someone surely they should do the right thing by the person paying them and provide a good service? This does not always seem to happen. I think Australians only go so far and then they could not be bothered to put in the extra effort. Maybe a sweeping generalization but efficiency, merit and achievement should be admired in this country instead of successful and hardworking people being put down by this stupid and pathetic tall poppy syndrome that exists.
Hard working people should be admired and punctuality encouraged which is all I have to say for the moment.
I think the biggest problem with most Australians is that when you make personal criticism or you dare to think that you are cut down instantly. People go on the defense and attack or try and think it is their place to conform you rather than to try and understand. It just seems to be the way of things here. In work environments I wonder why good people are so few and far between. Good managers are rare but the ones who are in this position and exercise good leadership should be supported and assisted. This is the way I see it anyhow.
It amazes me that when you pay someone to do a service either they don't show up or turn up late. Why do they do this?! If you are paying someone surely they should do the right thing by the person paying them and provide a good service? This does not always seem to happen. I think Australians only go so far and then they could not be bothered to put in the extra effort. Maybe a sweeping generalization but efficiency, merit and achievement should be admired in this country instead of successful and hardworking people being put down by this stupid and pathetic tall poppy syndrome that exists.
Hard working people should be admired and punctuality encouraged which is all I have to say for the moment.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Why I would like to live in Germany
I have been to Germany on a couple of occasions in my life and I have to say that I am impressed by German culture. I like the way Germany is an industrious and methodical nation. People work hard and furthermore things get done. Inefficiency is often annoying as well as lazy and bad attitudes. For some reason I seem to relate to German people and having visited Germany twice, I found their work ethic and attitude to life good. As an Aspie, I find that I can connect to German people as they also seem serious about doing things properly and being on time. How many times do you get sick of wanting something done and it is never done properly or the person needs to be pushed more to get something done? German people also seem to ensure that something is done properly also.
What concerns me about Australia is that it is quickly becoming a third world country. Australian's are complacent and the whole system of government and infrastructure seems to be difficult to change. Infrastructure in Australia is very poor and the standard of education is on its way down also. When you get young adults coming into a library and displaying poor attitudes and very poor research skills, then you seriously have to be concerned. Bureaucrats have succeeded over the years in stuffing up and wrongfully tampering with the education system which is now fractured and failing to equip people of the future. There is more interest in computer skills than there is on content.
When I visited Germany, I found that I could be understood by the people I spoke to. They had a sensible attitude on life compared to this white trash culture that is becoming more wide spread in Australia. This culture takes away a person's ability to think and causes them to be a walking zombie. I find the immigration process discriminates against anyone willing also to relocate to another country. I would not mind working in Germany for a short period to see if I liked it but to get or enhance my education, I do not trust the fractured education system we have in Australia. It concerns me when people cannot spell, think or even begin to understand the basic fundamentals of mainstream education. Also this Carbon Tax I think has been rushed and poorly planned. It will further cause Australia to become a third world country. Already the cost of living in Australia is expensive but the cost of electricity and air travel will be seriously affected. Australia's is disadvantaged by its geographical location with the rest of the world but what is now considered a long haul journey will further be damaged by Australia being seen as a no go zone. It will simply just be too expensive! I think the Carbon Tax will only fill the coffers of governments who have no control over their expenditures. I think Australians need to think more as they are fast losing their identity. I may be wrong but Germany seems a proud nation as well as Austria also which I have been to. Sure they may be suffering with the Euro but Germans seem to have a good work ethic and a responsible attitude. That's how I see it anyhow.
What concerns me about Australia is that it is quickly becoming a third world country. Australian's are complacent and the whole system of government and infrastructure seems to be difficult to change. Infrastructure in Australia is very poor and the standard of education is on its way down also. When you get young adults coming into a library and displaying poor attitudes and very poor research skills, then you seriously have to be concerned. Bureaucrats have succeeded over the years in stuffing up and wrongfully tampering with the education system which is now fractured and failing to equip people of the future. There is more interest in computer skills than there is on content.
When I visited Germany, I found that I could be understood by the people I spoke to. They had a sensible attitude on life compared to this white trash culture that is becoming more wide spread in Australia. This culture takes away a person's ability to think and causes them to be a walking zombie. I find the immigration process discriminates against anyone willing also to relocate to another country. I would not mind working in Germany for a short period to see if I liked it but to get or enhance my education, I do not trust the fractured education system we have in Australia. It concerns me when people cannot spell, think or even begin to understand the basic fundamentals of mainstream education. Also this Carbon Tax I think has been rushed and poorly planned. It will further cause Australia to become a third world country. Already the cost of living in Australia is expensive but the cost of electricity and air travel will be seriously affected. Australia's is disadvantaged by its geographical location with the rest of the world but what is now considered a long haul journey will further be damaged by Australia being seen as a no go zone. It will simply just be too expensive! I think the Carbon Tax will only fill the coffers of governments who have no control over their expenditures. I think Australians need to think more as they are fast losing their identity. I may be wrong but Germany seems a proud nation as well as Austria also which I have been to. Sure they may be suffering with the Euro but Germans seem to have a good work ethic and a responsible attitude. That's how I see it anyhow.
Review of the movie Limitless
Imagine if you were offered a drug which would greatly enhance your brain's thinking ability from 40% to more? Just think of the opportunities and possibilities that would be available? Well if you watch the movie released this year called "Limitless" such possibilities and realities are explored.
Set in New York a man Eddie Morra is leading the life of an unknown person and in the grips of poverty. He comes into contact with the drug and reluctant at first he swallows it. Suddenly he finds himself achieving more than his own capabilities. He creates wealth, increases his social circles and excels in ways that is difficult for most of us to imagine. The drug NZT allows Eddie to live a life on the edge. He makes money and comes into contact with Carl Van Loon played by Robert Deniro. Van Loon is a high flyer and Eddie maintains greater exposure with him. He is mixing in higher circles and suddenly is the centre of attention while he creates wealth and exceeds his abilities from his previously humble existence.
I am not going to give too much about the movie away as you need to see it for yourself but it does raise some positives and negatives with such an existence. Does taking such a drug have consequences? What if it gets into the wrong hands? How far can a person go in a state of ecstasy? Is a person thinking as themselves or are they being controlled by a mind enhancing substance? I do not support the use of taking drugs but the movie does highlight the possibilities if the human brain is able to achieve more than what it can at the moment. Furthermore what if it gets into the wrong hands which can be found in the movie? Can it cause danger and the problems associated with addiction?
I would encourage anyone to watch the movie for themselves and see what you make of it. I have included a link to the video trailer to this post. So see what you think and perhaps make comments. The movie also highlights some of the abilities that persons on the Autism Spectrum have such as areas of the brain which seem to work less in non Autistic people. You need to see the movie for yourself.
Set in New York a man Eddie Morra is leading the life of an unknown person and in the grips of poverty. He comes into contact with the drug and reluctant at first he swallows it. Suddenly he finds himself achieving more than his own capabilities. He creates wealth, increases his social circles and excels in ways that is difficult for most of us to imagine. The drug NZT allows Eddie to live a life on the edge. He makes money and comes into contact with Carl Van Loon played by Robert Deniro. Van Loon is a high flyer and Eddie maintains greater exposure with him. He is mixing in higher circles and suddenly is the centre of attention while he creates wealth and exceeds his abilities from his previously humble existence.
I am not going to give too much about the movie away as you need to see it for yourself but it does raise some positives and negatives with such an existence. Does taking such a drug have consequences? What if it gets into the wrong hands? How far can a person go in a state of ecstasy? Is a person thinking as themselves or are they being controlled by a mind enhancing substance? I do not support the use of taking drugs but the movie does highlight the possibilities if the human brain is able to achieve more than what it can at the moment. Furthermore what if it gets into the wrong hands which can be found in the movie? Can it cause danger and the problems associated with addiction?
I would encourage anyone to watch the movie for themselves and see what you make of it. I have included a link to the video trailer to this post. So see what you think and perhaps make comments. The movie also highlights some of the abilities that persons on the Autism Spectrum have such as areas of the brain which seem to work less in non Autistic people. You need to see the movie for yourself.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
The Autism Spectrum and the diagnosis issue.
I am somewhat concerned with the so called diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome and how I find some persons on the Autism Spectrum selfish and ungrateful to those who try and help them. I have learned that I now advocate for myself and not others because no matter how hard I try and others also, some are never grateful and I do not think try hard enough. I have received on occasions nothing but abuse or rudeness on the part of persons on the Autism Spectrum and as hard as it is, sometimes you have to be strong and try very hard to get on with non Autistic people in this world. I am personally disappointed by the criticisms made of certain people who go out of their way to raise awareness within the wider community. For instance Dr Tony Attwood, Asperger Services Australia and others. I am beginning to sadly see some persons on the Autism Spectrum as largely selfish and dysfunctional. If they want to succeed in the world then they have to make an effort. I am saying it as it is.
Persons on the Autism Spectrum have to learn to not criticise or attack persons that try to go out of their way to help them. In my own life I had to work hard to get to where I am and sure the world is not easy, it is not easy for anyone but using bad behaviours is no excuse or just saying you have AS and you cannot do things. Such behaviours are clearly unacceptable. There are people who are working very hard in this world to raise awareness and provide support within the Autism Community and I know of some Aspies who are going out of their way and doing a damn hard job. These people need your support. The work of Autism Works is certainly one such place and Specialisterne and others. Sure you may not like software testing but if you want a job then you are going to have to have a go at it otherwise you will remain unemployed. I question the growing diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome because I think it covers a broad spectrum. When I was diagnosed by Dr Tony Attwood in 1998, I learned to deal with and cope as best I could with the diagnosis and trying to come to terms with it today. If persons on the Autism Spectrum want to work then like everyone they have to exercise a certain level of self discipline. They also have to learn to not be selfish and attack or criticise other people who may be trying to help them. I have dealt with this personally and when someone is trying to help me, I am grateful. Also there needs to stop being this anti NT (neuro typical) attitude. For persons on the Autism Spectrum if they want to get on in the world they have to work with NT's and realise not all of them are bad etc. I do believe that more awareness and acceptance of the Autism Spectrum is required but I am not going to allow criticisms of person like Dr Attwood and others. A lot of hard work has gone into organising next year's event by Asperger Services Australia and they should be commended for their hard work. If a person on the Autism Spectrum wants help then they have to get off their behinds and try and seek it. The world is difficult but finding help is possible. I understand all persons on the Autism Spectrum are different and if some people do not appreciate the advocacy work I do then I am sorry but this is your own problem and you have to learn to deal with it. I have worked hard to get to where I am today and no I am not perfect but I am not going to simply use AS as an excuse in saying I am unable to do certain things in my life. Holding down a job is not easy but also it is the responsibility of any individual whether they have AS or not to turn up to to work, be on time, and try their best to do their job. If you want a job and be employable then you have to exercise and implement self discipline. Just be grateful for those people within the community who work on your behalf and realise that some non Autistic people try very hard to help you. I am saying this bluntly as selfish, critical, and rude behaviours are not acceptable even if they are used as a so called symptom of AS. Having AS is a means of constantly learning from your mistakes and trying to improve and once again I am trying to do this and no I am not perfect but I am damn well try. The world cannot all be one way and using dysfunctional behaviour as an excuse is clearly not on.
Persons on the Autism Spectrum have to learn to not criticise or attack persons that try to go out of their way to help them. In my own life I had to work hard to get to where I am and sure the world is not easy, it is not easy for anyone but using bad behaviours is no excuse or just saying you have AS and you cannot do things. Such behaviours are clearly unacceptable. There are people who are working very hard in this world to raise awareness and provide support within the Autism Community and I know of some Aspies who are going out of their way and doing a damn hard job. These people need your support. The work of Autism Works is certainly one such place and Specialisterne and others. Sure you may not like software testing but if you want a job then you are going to have to have a go at it otherwise you will remain unemployed. I question the growing diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome because I think it covers a broad spectrum. When I was diagnosed by Dr Tony Attwood in 1998, I learned to deal with and cope as best I could with the diagnosis and trying to come to terms with it today. If persons on the Autism Spectrum want to work then like everyone they have to exercise a certain level of self discipline. They also have to learn to not be selfish and attack or criticise other people who may be trying to help them. I have dealt with this personally and when someone is trying to help me, I am grateful. Also there needs to stop being this anti NT (neuro typical) attitude. For persons on the Autism Spectrum if they want to get on in the world they have to work with NT's and realise not all of them are bad etc. I do believe that more awareness and acceptance of the Autism Spectrum is required but I am not going to allow criticisms of person like Dr Attwood and others. A lot of hard work has gone into organising next year's event by Asperger Services Australia and they should be commended for their hard work. If a person on the Autism Spectrum wants help then they have to get off their behinds and try and seek it. The world is difficult but finding help is possible. I understand all persons on the Autism Spectrum are different and if some people do not appreciate the advocacy work I do then I am sorry but this is your own problem and you have to learn to deal with it. I have worked hard to get to where I am today and no I am not perfect but I am not going to simply use AS as an excuse in saying I am unable to do certain things in my life. Holding down a job is not easy but also it is the responsibility of any individual whether they have AS or not to turn up to to work, be on time, and try their best to do their job. If you want a job and be employable then you have to exercise and implement self discipline. Just be grateful for those people within the community who work on your behalf and realise that some non Autistic people try very hard to help you. I am saying this bluntly as selfish, critical, and rude behaviours are not acceptable even if they are used as a so called symptom of AS. Having AS is a means of constantly learning from your mistakes and trying to improve and once again I am trying to do this and no I am not perfect but I am damn well try. The world cannot all be one way and using dysfunctional behaviour as an excuse is clearly not on.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Dealing with Authority and positive Aspie stories
One of the issues I have as an Aspie is dealing with authority. When you see everybody as the same and you cannot always understand hierarchical structure, this can tend to cause issues and problems. Sometimes guidance and caution are required to ensure that the person on the Autism Spectrum does not come into contact with an apprising danger or difficulty. What can be done then to ensure there are no issues? In a work environment a person in authority needs to caution the person on the Autism Spectrum that their actions may get them into difficulty. This could be in that they may contact someone in a higher station and not realise that their is a protocol in order to contact the person concerned. I find hierarchy frustrating because often you need to appeal to someone in a higher position to get something done. You may confront difficulty and attitude with someone in a lower position or station.
For Aspies they can have on rare occasions brushes with the law. For instance they may be at a location and think that because something has no use may take it not realising the consequences. The Autism Spectrum should not be used as an excuse for inappropriate or wrongful behaviour but it may be just a simple mistake of miscommunication or not understanding an action concerned. Authority figures and organizations need a greater awareness and understanding of the Autism Spectrum because sometimes the person may simply not know that over stepping the mark may get them into trouble. This can also be provoked by an obsession with the object concerned. Any crime is theft is clearly unacceptable but if there is a mentor, guardian or other supportive person then this can guard against any possible danger or issue. The problem is that some persons on the Autism Spectrum have no family, guardian or even home to live in and lack support from someone who can ensure they do not upset a hierarchical process. On many occasions I have been warned about upsetting hierarchy and although I find it hard to understand and sometimes accept, I try my best to accept the procedure and not create further issues. One issue may be using work email to contact external organisations using my work signature on the foot of the email. I don't really know why an email has a work signature if given my case I am according to the NT work structure on the lower end of the pyramid so to speak. What really is the purpose of a work signature I think to myself? Why is their hierarchy and why is someone who is going to live and die like myself supposedly higher in authority than I am? All very vexing and confusing if you ask me. I have noticed with Aspies that we like to get things done and sometimes we may upset the apple cart so to speak when we do not intend to. Within legal matters, authority figures need greater awareness of AS and also authority figures such as customs. An Aspie may for instance wonder why they have to remove their belt from the trousers as we may think that this is encroaching on our privacy or taking our shoes off may mean that we are afraid that we wont get the back and walking around an airport with no shoes on is not really a good idea. I find immigration and passport checks the most difficult as one must never reply or ask questions back without the possibility of running into further trouble. I asked when passing through one passport check why I could not fly to Germany because I had water in my bag. What damage could water possibly do but I have found out that unfortunately there are other more sinister plans. To put it bluntly an Aspie almost needs an induction prior to dealing with authority figures and hierarchy. Must not upset this person, or contact that person even though they are the same as you.
On another note why aren't Aspies getting positive stories in the media? I know many Aspies from around the world who are very intelligent but lacking social skills precludes us from getting ahead in the world. Just imagine a car with fully blown tires and one with flat tyres. Both are capable of driving and have the energy but the car with flat tyres being the Aspie has to work harder to drive at the same speed as the car with fully inflated tyres. I would like to see more positive stories about Aspies. I know the rare few in employment who work hard but they do not get the lime light. We represent the highest unemployment figures and this has to change. I know one Aspie whom I was talking to on Facebook this morning with who has a wealth of information but lives on his own with his dog. He does not interact and shops late at night with a pair of dark sunglasses on. He is formerly from Ireland and was in a stressful job. He is now in a cave like existence within my region. I prefer not to disclose his location even though I do not know where it is exactly. He is self sufficient but a virtual recluse. As you may have noted earlier some of us Aspies live like ghosts. We exist but sometimes do not feel human. We tend to retreat because others never understand us. It is our only way of surviving and not getting into further misunderstanding. Anyhow let us hear some positive stories about Aspies. Especially the ones in work or the ones who have a story to tell.
For Aspies they can have on rare occasions brushes with the law. For instance they may be at a location and think that because something has no use may take it not realising the consequences. The Autism Spectrum should not be used as an excuse for inappropriate or wrongful behaviour but it may be just a simple mistake of miscommunication or not understanding an action concerned. Authority figures and organizations need a greater awareness and understanding of the Autism Spectrum because sometimes the person may simply not know that over stepping the mark may get them into trouble. This can also be provoked by an obsession with the object concerned. Any crime is theft is clearly unacceptable but if there is a mentor, guardian or other supportive person then this can guard against any possible danger or issue. The problem is that some persons on the Autism Spectrum have no family, guardian or even home to live in and lack support from someone who can ensure they do not upset a hierarchical process. On many occasions I have been warned about upsetting hierarchy and although I find it hard to understand and sometimes accept, I try my best to accept the procedure and not create further issues. One issue may be using work email to contact external organisations using my work signature on the foot of the email. I don't really know why an email has a work signature if given my case I am according to the NT work structure on the lower end of the pyramid so to speak. What really is the purpose of a work signature I think to myself? Why is their hierarchy and why is someone who is going to live and die like myself supposedly higher in authority than I am? All very vexing and confusing if you ask me. I have noticed with Aspies that we like to get things done and sometimes we may upset the apple cart so to speak when we do not intend to. Within legal matters, authority figures need greater awareness of AS and also authority figures such as customs. An Aspie may for instance wonder why they have to remove their belt from the trousers as we may think that this is encroaching on our privacy or taking our shoes off may mean that we are afraid that we wont get the back and walking around an airport with no shoes on is not really a good idea. I find immigration and passport checks the most difficult as one must never reply or ask questions back without the possibility of running into further trouble. I asked when passing through one passport check why I could not fly to Germany because I had water in my bag. What damage could water possibly do but I have found out that unfortunately there are other more sinister plans. To put it bluntly an Aspie almost needs an induction prior to dealing with authority figures and hierarchy. Must not upset this person, or contact that person even though they are the same as you.
On another note why aren't Aspies getting positive stories in the media? I know many Aspies from around the world who are very intelligent but lacking social skills precludes us from getting ahead in the world. Just imagine a car with fully blown tires and one with flat tyres. Both are capable of driving and have the energy but the car with flat tyres being the Aspie has to work harder to drive at the same speed as the car with fully inflated tyres. I would like to see more positive stories about Aspies. I know the rare few in employment who work hard but they do not get the lime light. We represent the highest unemployment figures and this has to change. I know one Aspie whom I was talking to on Facebook this morning with who has a wealth of information but lives on his own with his dog. He does not interact and shops late at night with a pair of dark sunglasses on. He is formerly from Ireland and was in a stressful job. He is now in a cave like existence within my region. I prefer not to disclose his location even though I do not know where it is exactly. He is self sufficient but a virtual recluse. As you may have noted earlier some of us Aspies live like ghosts. We exist but sometimes do not feel human. We tend to retreat because others never understand us. It is our only way of surviving and not getting into further misunderstanding. Anyhow let us hear some positive stories about Aspies. Especially the ones in work or the ones who have a story to tell.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
New poll being conducted.
As I have met Aspies from around the world some are prepared to move or are not happy with the lack of services where they live. It would be interesting therefore to find out given the choice of whether Aspies would consider relocating to another country if it meant an improvement in their quality of life.
I considered immigration myself to the United States of America some years back and have recently thought about moving to Eastern Europe because I feel a resistance in culture here. So as an Aspie would you be prepared to move and live in another country just to get a better quality of life and access to better services. Please take the time to answer the survey if you are able to. It is not compulsory but gauging information may prove useful given Dr Attwood reads my blog.
The polls may seem to non Autistic people as whinge but really more awarenes and pariticpation may help in raising awareness.
I considered immigration myself to the United States of America some years back and have recently thought about moving to Eastern Europe because I feel a resistance in culture here. So as an Aspie would you be prepared to move and live in another country just to get a better quality of life and access to better services. Please take the time to answer the survey if you are able to. It is not compulsory but gauging information may prove useful given Dr Attwood reads my blog.
The polls may seem to non Autistic people as whinge but really more awarenes and pariticpation may help in raising awareness.
Becoming more introspective
In times of seclusion and isolation, I find myself living in my head more. The very concept of living as an Aspie seems second rate and it feels like it is entirely a new culture or language. I think as Aspie that the world around me expects me to socialise and think like other people and yet I struggle to do so. I find my language and communication is entirely different. I find the following areas of discrimination
1. Single room supplement where person pays for couple rate
2. Rental situation
3. Low income
4. Basic communication.
5. The list goes on and more Aspies will mean more need for future accommodations
I find that my thought process differs from others. I don't see things the same way that they do. I am constantly having to control thought processes in my head such as obsessions, confusion etc. I am not violent or dangerous but people seem to avoid me like the plague. I often confront criticism because I think that only Aspies have problems but I am not saying this. What I am saying is that being introspective is part of the condition. It is almost like a prison sentence in that I just cannot connect to other people. I avoid stress where I can. People think because I look like them that I don't have problems. Try living with me 24/7 and you will see I have. People blame their faults on me rather than do something about their own faults to make themselves better. I am always having to learn, think and change myself. It is constant and ongoing. I am confused a lot and I think relationships for Aspie men are different. As an Aspie, I think paying for intimacy seems loveless and I don't want to go there. (Research happening at UQ on this please visit Brisbane Asperger Syndrome Adults on Facebook to find out more). I think it would be good to find someone of the opposite sex but it is so exhausting having to jump through the hurdles and loops to get there. All Aspies are different myself included. We need basic services such as counselors etc. Living in your head is a lot safer than being overwhelmed, confused and drained by people who do not understand you. As you get older you become more set in your ways. Not all Aspies are easy to get on with. Most have their own problems. I see a lot of adult Aspie men angry, frustrated, confused and anxious because like me they are not getting the help they require. Things need to change. Being socially isolated and alone is no fun. People can be cruel in that they don't see this and can often mock people on the Autism Spectrum unkindly. Try opening your minds and understanding before you criticise us as we cannot help the way we are as Aspies. We are trying to fit in and understand the world also and we need support and encouragement. We need positive NT's to guide us a long.
1. Single room supplement where person pays for couple rate
2. Rental situation
3. Low income
4. Basic communication.
5. The list goes on and more Aspies will mean more need for future accommodations
I find that my thought process differs from others. I don't see things the same way that they do. I am constantly having to control thought processes in my head such as obsessions, confusion etc. I am not violent or dangerous but people seem to avoid me like the plague. I often confront criticism because I think that only Aspies have problems but I am not saying this. What I am saying is that being introspective is part of the condition. It is almost like a prison sentence in that I just cannot connect to other people. I avoid stress where I can. People think because I look like them that I don't have problems. Try living with me 24/7 and you will see I have. People blame their faults on me rather than do something about their own faults to make themselves better. I am always having to learn, think and change myself. It is constant and ongoing. I am confused a lot and I think relationships for Aspie men are different. As an Aspie, I think paying for intimacy seems loveless and I don't want to go there. (Research happening at UQ on this please visit Brisbane Asperger Syndrome Adults on Facebook to find out more). I think it would be good to find someone of the opposite sex but it is so exhausting having to jump through the hurdles and loops to get there. All Aspies are different myself included. We need basic services such as counselors etc. Living in your head is a lot safer than being overwhelmed, confused and drained by people who do not understand you. As you get older you become more set in your ways. Not all Aspies are easy to get on with. Most have their own problems. I see a lot of adult Aspie men angry, frustrated, confused and anxious because like me they are not getting the help they require. Things need to change. Being socially isolated and alone is no fun. People can be cruel in that they don't see this and can often mock people on the Autism Spectrum unkindly. Try opening your minds and understanding before you criticise us as we cannot help the way we are as Aspies. We are trying to fit in and understand the world also and we need support and encouragement. We need positive NT's to guide us a long.
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