Say What?!!!

In this hostile political climate, new words have made their way through our country. The problem is with my Asperger’s I have to look up these words because what I thought the word meant has now is a new term. An example of a couple of these works is “Woke” and “Cancel Culture“. I really had no idea what these terms mean in a different contextual way. So I’m going to educate myself and anyone who is clueless as well:

WOKE – “Aware of and actively attentive to important facts and issues (especially issues of racial and social justice).” “Stay woke became a watchword in parts of the Black community for those who were self-aware, questioning the dominant paradigm and striving for something better.”

The term “woke police” is used, mainly, by critics of the movement as a way to negatively describe those who identify as woke and fight for social justice issues. The term is used to claim that woke people are policing other’s actions and words, generally, in response to backlash someone else has received for their words or actions.

For example, if a celebrity has been found to have used racist or sexist language and is being held accountable for their actions, defenders of said person may say that the “woke police” have been offended, as a way of undermining the backlash.

{THANK YOU…NATIONALWORLD.COM For the information}

CANCEL CULTURE – refers to the popular practice of withdrawing support for (canceling) public figures and companies after they have done or said something considered objectionable or offensive. Cancel culture is generally discussed as being performed on social media in the form of group shaming.

Cancel culture started trending again in 2020 amid increased awareness of and opposition to racial injustice following the protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd. Discussion of cancel culture flared up in the mainstream media after the publication of a letter criticizing cancel culture in Harper’s Magazine and President Donald Trump compared cancel culture to totalitarianism. The ongoing protests also led to renewed demands for the canceling of already controversial things such as symbols of the Confederacy, statues of Christopher Columbus, and the name of the Washington Redskins football team, which announced it would change its name after intense pressure from team sponsors.

{THANK YOU…DICTIONARY.COM For the information}

I hope this helps. Trust me when I say this left me scratching my head. In some way, if we don’t really understand the terms then they don’t mean much to us. It just feels like name-calling. Social Media can be that two-headed monster. One side getting the positive word out or negative and shaming people who don’t deserve it. I personally try to keep things positive unless there is a logical reason to make known news that isn’t good. Best of luck to everyone!

Teacher/Parent Frustration COVID

The news has been setting it’s sights on school districts across the United States. The thing that kicked off this controversy were the published guidelines for schools to re-open by the CDC. There was one small problem with this statement, they had no idea what they were talking about in regards to what it really takes to open up a school. This is one time when you try to dictate how things should go but, you have no real experience then I would say – “CDC, stay in your own lane.” This logistical error, parents felt like the CDC was more qualified then administrators. I promise you that you ask any teacher and they’ll tell you they miss the kids and the classroom. Understand thought, as teachers, we care very deeply for all of our kids so bringing them back to the possibility of catching a deadly virus is not something we want to risk. I teach in a school were the population is around 900 students and about 60 staff members. To keep to the 6 feet distance and the masking is going to be nearly impossible. The biggest thing that needs to happen is that ALL staff and administration need to be completely vaccinated. If we all get the vaccine then we hold a chance to not spread the virus to the students.

Something we need to remember is children are catching the virus and some are even dying. Sadly, we’ve lost one student and one secretary this school year so far and this really makes things difficult when this happens. I know that the vaccine makers are now testing the vaccine on children to see what the effects might be. I currently have had my first shot and I’m lined up to get my second in a few weeks. President Biden was not impressed with the CDC either because he knows that the vaccination must be given to schools and the buildings need to be upgraded for better ventilation with a more sterile environment. Don’t forget what President Biden’s wife does for a living – you don’t think she had something to say about what schools need?

I know this is depressing the teachers and students having to be stuck in their homes. I’m really rooting for the vaccine companies to get everyone vaccinated. In the meantime, please keep a close eye on any person who is feeling down right now. We’re in the teeth of a hard winter and this doesn’t help their feelings. There are organizations out there that are very willing to talk with any person who is depressed and doesn’t know what to do. Trust me, I’m a teacher, I’m taking courses in being an administrator, and I’ve dealt with my own issue of depression. This time will eventually pass and soon we’ll be back to school the way it’s supposed to be.

Teenage Depression

Mom looking at depressed teenager sitting on bed

Between 4-8% of adolescents currently experience depression, and up to 25% will experience depression by the time they reach the end of adolescence. The symptoms of adolescent depression manifest differently depending on the developmental stage they are in.

Teenage depression, like depression in adults, has a negative impact on social, school, and family functioning. Depression during formative stages of childhood and adolescence can impact personality development.

Unlike adult depression, depression in teenagers may present as increased irritability, instead of low mood. Teenage depression is also unlike adult depression because it cannot be easily treated with anti-depressants. In fact, medications can make depression symptoms in teenagers worsen and can increase thoughts of suicide.

If you are a teenager or parent of a teenager who may be depressed, contact a teenage depression hotline to get answers about the best treatment options.

Free Hotline Numbers

If your depression has caused you to lose a job, drop out of school, lose touch with family or friends, or if you’ve noticed changes in your sleep and appetite that have not improved, contact one of these free resources to learn more about treating your depression.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

SAMHSA’s behavioral health treatment services locator is an easy and anonymous way to locate treatment facilities and other resources, such as support groups and counselors, to treat and manage depression.

National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)

If your depression is leading to suicidal thoughts, call the National Hopeline to connect with a depression treatment center in your area. The Hopeline also offers a live chat feature for those who don’t want to (or are unable to) call and can dispatch emergency crews to your location if necessary.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

This national hotline is another valuable resource for people whose depression has escalated to suicidal or other harmful thoughts. Their network of crisis centers provide emotional support and guidance to people in distress and are also available via a chat service and a special hotline number for the hearing impaired: 1-800-799-4889.

National Youth Crisis Hotline: 1-800-448-4663

This resource provides brief interventions for youth who are dealing with pregnancy, sexual abuse, child abuse, depression and suicidal thoughts. They also provide referrals to local counseling, treatment centers, and shelters.

https://www.mentalhelp.net/depression/hotline/

2020…The End

It probably will go without saying that no one is happier to see 2020 go than most of the people in the United States. The pandemic, the election, unemployment, the lack of food, the highest number of hurricanes ever, and every in-between just seems so…unbelievable. The only really good thing I can look back and say is the Kansas City Chiefs winning Super Bowl 54! (Sorry, big Chiefs fan.) I will say that getting the book ‘Weirdo 2.0’ in print has been a dream of mine for a really long time. The best part is I am currently working on a new book for a new year! I did start college again for administration, just another year and half to go. Need less to say, I will be really busy for the new year, but I actually welcome it.

I have learned a lot after this year when it comes to writing, publishing and marketing in the literature world. My only enemy will be time. With the job, school and writing, this will be a test of my time management skills and making sure I get all of my responsibilities done. My wife will be working on her art and production of all the different things she can make. I will say I’m a little jealous on how well she does this. My wife is really talented. Once I have more material to share on the book, I’ll be happy to tease some of it’s content. In the meantime, if you haven’t picked up a copy yet of my current book, read through the reviews because they are honest and I had nothing to do with their comments. This was their opinion alone. So, pick it up today on almost any platform. As a reminder, please stay safe, I know we’ll get through this together. Just be careful and let the Lord be your guide. Here’s to 2021!!!!!

Ilustrasi tahun 2021, libur nasional 2021.

The Interviews

I wanted to share a couple of interviews that I took part in for Readers Magnet and Literacy Titans. I have to admit that some of these questions really got me thinking.

You Have a Gift

NOV 14

Posted by Literary Titan

Weirdo 2.0 gives readers the tools they need to handle a harsh boss along with information about autism. What inspired you to write this book?

In the book, I mention how impossible it was to sue the school district because I couldn’t find a defamation lawyer that would take my case. I really believed I was not going to let these people win, so that is what inspired me to write the book. I had kept all of the emails, letters, and recordings from that last year and beyond because I knew there was going to be something rotten, I just never thought it would have been that bad.

I appreciated the personal accounts you shared in this book. What were some ideas that were important for you to get convey?

The biggest thing for me to convey was, that I wanted any person who is living with a disability should never have to deal with abuse from others…especially at work! The most difficult part is when you have a neuro-deficient disorder, people will look at you and see no cane or wheelchair, so how can you be ‘disabled’? I want people to learn how important it is to advocate for yourself or you will constantly be beaten to the ground!

What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?

We’re all humans. None of us are perfect but we try to live our lives the best we can. Never let anyone else tell you that your worthless or you can’t do anything right. You have a gift, no matter what disability you may have. Use that gift and inspire others, because you never know who might be watching thinking they have nothing to offer.

What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?

I have 3, believe it or not. One is about my mother-in-law who had journaled her USO trip to Iceland during the early ’60s and I found it to be really fascinating and I want to share it with the rest of the world. The other is a book about relationships dating and marrying a person with autism. The last book is about police and how they handle people with autism.

https://literarytitan.com/2020/11/14/you-have-a-gift/

Interview with Award-Winning Author Christopher Wheat

by Christopher Wheat | Nov 9, 2020 | Author, Featured Book | 0 comments

What is your book all about?

When people don’t understand or like something or someone; they make fun of it. The book is about people with autism and the bullying they receive, especially on the job, when a leader/boss is discriminating just because of our differentness. Through my story, I cover all of the abuse I took because of my disability and walk the reader through the legal side of what happened to me and how I dealt with it.

What inspired you to write the book?

My passion for this book was very therapeutic and I know there are so many others who are dealing with similar situations. Not only did I write this for myself but most importantly for those like me who are currently going through what I did and don’t know what to do. Everyone deserves a fair shot at any job they were hired to work. I think people need to understand that, yes, there is discrimination in the workplace from race to gender but, those who have a mental disability tend to get lost in the unfairness of job discrimination.

What is your target audience for the book?

Any person who has suffered job discrimination for any reason. To those who have a mental disability and are fighting to be understood. To educators who may not realize how harsh and cruel school leaders can be to the ones their supposed to lead.

What do you hope readers get out from your book?

That no matter how bad your situation is, don’t ever give up. No matter how bad I was treated, I was able to move on and I found a new job and I’m really happy say I’m enjoying it.

What are your future goals/plans for the book?

Honestly, I’m trying to find a stronger voice to get the message out because that has been the hardest thing to do right now.

https://www.readersmagnet.club/interview-with-award-winning-author-christopher-wheat/

Interesting Reviews & AWARD WINNER!!!

Whenever I go out and write a book, I have no idea how well I did. Friends are nice and they’ll always tell you that you’ve written masterpiece, but the reality is people who have no idea who I am won’t care about me but, how well did I write the book. Is it entertaining? Did I waste my money or was it worth the purchase? So far I have 3 book reviewers who have no idea who I am and I still have one pending. I will place the reviews that were given on this posting for my book “Weirdo 2.0”. AND NOW I’M AN AWARD WINNING AUTHOR! This is AMAZING!

https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/weirdo-2-0-xander-bell

Loved it! 😍

An eye-opening, heartfelt real story about being the weirdo and surviving the bullying and more.

SYNOPSIS

Feeling bullied at work?
Wondering if HR is talking behind your back?
I’ve walked in your shoes!
This volume as additional material about autism and other disorders.
This story chronicles my experience with a harsh boss who wanted me out. If you are a worker, teacher, parent or disabled person, I’ll give you the best options for dealing with this problem. I’ll let you know what worked and what failed. I know how you feel! My situation was so bad I almost lost my house, all because my job wanted to get rid of the Weirdo. This conflict was so enormous, that this reached all the way to the White House. An intense and vivid personal account of how I wasn’t willing to give up – and neither should you

Weirdo 2.0 by Christopher Wheat, aka Xander Bell, was not the type of book I expected it to be – and this before I even read the synopsis. The cover image and title was unusual for sure, but the book – well, the book was so realistic, and had such a personal touch.

I could relate a little bit. Wheat is an educator. He also has Asperger’s Syndrome. From what I gathered over the years, Asperger’s Syndrome is like, as Wheat explained, “highly-functioning autism.” In these pages, and through the 60,000 plus words, Wheat expresses, quite passionately and articulately his own struggle with the condition, and be accepted as a child and as an adult.

This heart-breaking, and at the same time, heart-lifting, tale begins simply with Wheat discussing a quote, “If there is no fight, there is no change.” This has almost been a mantra for his life.

“A person with Asperger’s has underdeveloped social skills and communication abilities. Some of us may have touch issues, disorganized thought processes or visual-spatial organizations, meaning we have trouble visually putting things into place” is how Wheat begins to explain the condition. Then he takes this story beyond just a book to make us aware of Asperger’s Syndrome… He pulls each one of us into his circle, sharing that what he felt could be similar to things many of us have felt as per being different – being a female, having a condition, not rich enough – from others. He talks about being bullied by coworkers and employers. And today, that is something very hard to deal with, but evidence appears daily all over the world of adults being bullied just because someone thought they were a ‘weirdo.’

Wheat encourages and inspires with this very revealing, personal account of his journey, and even though, no one would have blamed him if he had, he never gave up. And he encourages his readers to not do the same. The rawness, the honesty, the behind-the-scenes look… your eyes will be open wide, and hopefully your heart will be too.

I read this book in one sitting on a rainy Sunday. For most people in their mid-20s and above, professionals, they could do the same. It would also be a good read for a support group or a therapist could assign it for ‘homework’ with a client. Weirdo 2.0 would be a welcomed addition on a school counselor’s shelf as well.

https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=162343

Official Review: Weirdo 2.0 by Christopher Wheat

Report

Post by Nkoo » 19 Sep 2020, 14:46[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of “Weirdo 2.0” by Christopher Wheat.]
Book Cover

3 out of 4 stars

Have you ever been bullied at work? Was the bully a colleague or your boss? How did you handle the situation? “If there is no fight, there is no change.” This is the fulcrum upon which Weirdo 2.0 by Christopher Wheat rests.

This memoir chronicles the workplace mistreatment suffered by the author as an autistic teacher. Wheat’s story is remarkable because the discrimination hinges on his Asperger’s syndrome. Asperger’s syndrome is a condition on the autism spectrum. According to Wheat, a person with Asperger’s syndrome has underdeveloped social skills and communication abilities. Some of them may have touch issues, disorganized thought processes, or visual-spatial organizations; they have trouble visually putting things in place. For their lack of communication skills, they may be loners or unwilling to participate in social functions. The author emotively captured his story in fourteen chapters.

When Wheat started his career as a professional educator in 1996, he did not envisage the magnitude of discrimination he would face fifteen years after. He did not imagine that his boss would direct the school district to do away with him by saying to them: “Get rid of the weirdo.” Wheat was one of the social studies teachers at Jane Austen High School, Puzzle city, Michigan. After fifteen years of service, the author’s employers promptly relieved him of his duties as a high school teacher. He eventually slipped into a financial crisis and he almost lost his home, but he fought back. The White House became a part of the matter. What culminated in his sack, and how did it all end?

The author wrote this orderly book in the first-person narrative. Readers will read about the overall impact the situation had on him as he desperately searched for another job. Readers will find out what sustained the author and how his family made it through the financial upheaval. Readers will also find out the ailments he now suffers as the aftermath of which he seeks treatment. Anyone who has suffered any form of discrimination would find his story relatable. Readers will feel empathy for him, just as I did. They will feel the author’s frustration because of the embarrassment he endured. The latter part of the book contains a reference section and the latest edition of the American Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

The best part was that, according to the author, he wrote this book for awareness and forgiveness. Without a doubt, I believe he has achieved the intention for which he wrote this inspiring book. Readers will use his experiences and the lessons learned to help those who find themselves in similar situations. Putting an awful experience on paper will serve as a catharsis for him. Hence, this will help fulfill a therapeutic purpose and start the process of forgiveness. I also liked that he was upfront about his experiences; his honesty illuminates every line of the text. He even included excerpts from his journal concerning his ordeal to buttress his point. His writing style is conversational as he divulges details of his personal life. The author’s personality leaps from the pages of his book and grabs the reader. I also liked that he included pictures from the school to help drive home his point.

I enjoyed reading this powerful narrative; however, it contains a few instances of profanity. It does not contain any sexual content. But for the number of errors, I would have awarded this memoir the highest rating. However, I am constrained to give it three out of four stars because it is informative. I recommend it to everyone, particularly those dealing with one form of workplace discrimination or another. Autistic employees will also find it invaluable.

AMAZON REVIEW

Abby (@hiltonjenkin) 5.0 out of 5 stars Well written and introspective Reviewed in the United States on May 7, 2020 I have always had issues socializing with people and that had made me an easy target to bullying for almost a decade in my school life. The experiences still define my confidence level and anxiety issues. Now that I have joined as a trainee teacher at the same institution after another decade nothing seems to have changed. A new face in the authority – similar misuse of power. This has been bothering me for a couple of months and am so lucky to have come across this book at this time.
Weirdo, is a memoir that explores Xander Bell (or Christopher Wheat, the author himself) navigating the academic sphere as an autistic teacher amidst severe bullying. But the story is not just that. It is also about how despite the adversities and all the pressure to make him quit, he did not succumb to bullying; how he fought back.
His story is really a powerful one but is told delicately. Such a fine combination to master. The writing is easy and interactive. There’s so much to introspect about your own journey while you take this one. You get to imbibe the traits of kindness, strength and confidence and grow with the author. The story is somehow relatable because the author has kept it completely honest. You’ll recognize the people in the position of leadership not from talent but from sheer-ly knowing the people in power. You’ll also recognize the author in yourself or in someone you’ve known in your school or workplace. Who you probably just decided to ignore or maybe you were complicit in the action of others. But whatever it is I’ll recommend you to read this, because what this book does above all, is make people AWARE! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and will say it provided me with the helpful next steps on how to go on about it. Extremely helpful especially for people suffering from Asperger’s Syndrome.

LITERARY TITAN

Reading Christopher Wheat’s Weirdo 2.0 will make you understand how different everyone is. The author uses his condition and real-life stories to tell of his experiences as a teacher and tutor living with Asperger’s Syndrome, a condition that is now shoved under the autism umbrella. The reader gets educated on the condition and autism at large. Reading this book made me aware of how autistic people live. Christopher Wheat writes in a calm and gentle tone. You can read his sensations through the text he pens in the book. I appreciate the author for talking about some encounters that not many people would be comfortable talking about.

Stories from the classroom and in the school were intriguing to read. As a person living with a condition that is related to autism, Christopher Wheat’s experiences were a little different from others. I was not pleased reading about the bullying and mild disrespect shown by some. The author is a strong individual for penning some of his most painful experiences as such things would easily break anyone with a fragile heart. I empathized with him on many occasions but also applauded him for remaining firm and standing up for himself.

Not many people understand the world of people living with autism and related conditions. From the book, I learned that there is no better virtue than kindness. Be kind to everyone, and not just the people you know or interact with. Christopher Wheat is an excellent writer. His style of narration and way of introducing new stories is one of the best things about the author. He takes his time when explaining situations and one can tell that he is happy writing his stories. The memoir is an amazing read for people who want some encouragement and inspiration as they face day to day challenges at work. Christopher Wheat’s story is moving and motivating.

Weirdo 2.0 evokes strong emotions. Reading about the harsh boss almost brought tears to my eyes. I appreciate the author for the lessons in the book. Once you are done with this book you get to realize how ungracious the world we live in can be and why some people choose to quit without saying a word. The author however urges all to speak up no matter the situation they are in. Apart from the touching stories, I enjoyed reading about Christopher Wheat’s happy days. One can draw powerful lessons in both his professional and personal life. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy thoughtful autobiographies and uplifting real-life stories.

Literary Titan Book Award

Congratulations!
We are proud to present you with our Literary Titan Book Award. Your book was recently reviewed through our Book Review Service, with that service your book is entered into our Literary Book Award competition. Your book deserves extraordinary praise and we are proud to acknowledge your hard work, dedication, and writing talent. Start telling the world that you’re an award winning author, because we will be!

Please find the book award image below. Display it proudly on your book’s cover, or anywhere else that you want to display it. You will also find an award certificate below and your book title will be listed on our award winners page.

Thank you for letting us read your fantastic book.
https://literarytitan.com/2020/11/03/literary-titan-book-awards-november-2020/

With the Fall comes change

Of course, the whole COVID-19 has made everyone’s world turn upside down but, there have been some changes for me and still more to come. This summer, I didn’t write one single thing. I realize that sounds a little surprising but, I had to step back. I will say I started creating print-on-demand stuff through Redbubble, Etsy, Tee Spring, Tee Public and Merch on Amazon. Have I made tons of money? No…but, it was fun to do. I won’t completely give up on it because it’s actually fairly easy. I will say I have been trying to get Weirdo 2.0 reviewed by book reviewers. Online Book Club might actually come through. I just got done speaking with Reedsy so here’s hoping they get their act together. I am eyeballing other reviews because I was finally able to release the book from Amazon KDP and had other ebook imprints sell the book – including Google Books! I did send a copy to Dr. Temple Grandin but, I haven’t heard anything back so I’m not sure of what she thought. There are a few books I need to wrap up but, I need my wife’s help.

As many of you know, I’m a teacher and our school district has decided to start with online learning for at least the first 9 weeks. I do have mixed emotions about this but, I believe this is just better to keep everyone safe. I started a new college course at a new college. I’m taking a Master’s course in Education Specialist…meaning, school leadership. This should take me 2.5 years and I’m ready. My ultimate goal is superintendent but, we’ll see how the chips fall. I still love to write, finding the window to do so is going to be the trick.

Relaxing Summer?

As a teacher, one would think that summers are what we live for. It sounds nice, but the reality is quite different. This summer in particular is going to be really busy. I have a college class to take for my degree, my wife is having serious problems with her arm and we found out she’s going to need surgery again. Both of our twin daughters graduated with their Masters. One in Portland, Oregon and the other here in Kansas City. The irony is we have to move one twin to Washington state as a Social Worker and the other from Portland might be coming home. I will say I’m very proud of the both of them because their both autistic.

The biggest thing of all about 2020 is the pandemic, something we haven’t seen in over a century. Now, once again, another law abiding black man is senselessly killed by a police officer. And the riots have begun. I remember the Rodney King beating in Los Angeles and the riots that followed. I know we want positive change and I completely agree. I teach in an urban school and several of my students are either black or hispanic. They are all great kids. I missed them when we were forced to teach from home…over 20 years and I’ve never had to do education this way. George Floyd’s brother stated something that everyone needs to do–vote. Get out and really let your voice be heard. Rioting will not solve the problem. Peaceful demonstrating will help but, the long term solution is to get people into positions that are willing to enact the changes we all want to see done.

All of this and we’re only finishing out the first week of June.

Elevating to a New level

As I was looking at my Facebook posts, there was a certain post that got my attention. This made me feel frustrated and angry at the same time. The story was one I’ve read countless times. It’s the story of their young child who was diagnosed very early in their development. The parent is concerned that their kid will never talk to them or do anything else because the child was labelled as lower functioning autism. As I read the testimony, I knew a good, sound, possible answer that might change her child’s condition for the better. I even wrote a blog entry on the very answer that would really would have made a huge difference. So with this…I’ve made a decision – I’m looking to either create YouTube or a Podcast.

One of my biggest frustrations has been that no one seems to be listening. When I got on to Reddit, it was no different. They wanted to bitch about their problems in dealing with autism/asperger’s but, they didn’t want a real answer that maybe life changing. I was even suspended from the damn media page because I was using my book as a device to help people deal with their situation! So I happen to catch a youtube video of Dale Roberts and Julie the book broad talking about the impact of visual/audio communication to a reading audience. So that was when I decided I’m going to do that!!! I’m not sure which one I will pursue yet but, IT WILL HAPPEN and I will let everyone know who reads this blog. https://youtu.be/ncLA1VnYZWo I’ve attached the video if you want to see it.

Awareness…very funny.

Here we are again. April. Autism Awareness Month. [Though I will preface with the bigger issue of the COVID-19 virus.] I’ve been getting those wonderful emails from Autism Speaks almost on a daily basis. I used to have some respect for the organization until the curtain was opened and we’re finding out that a huge amount of money is either going to the people that run the place or the scientists who are trying to find that magical cure to autism – which if you’ve been doing your homework…knows that this isn’t something you catch {like a virus}. I did my very best to push the book I wrote about how us workers who have the autism disorder {not disease} are being severely bullied by coworkers and managers on our jobs. On a $.99 book in the USA and UK, I sold a grand total of….1. Yep, I sold one book. I honestly have no idea why I crashed and burned. Heck, I even tried to get the work out to the people on the sub-Reddit of Aspergers and one of the moderators stated I broke the rules and was suspended for 3 days! No joke. I basically told them that ‘you wouldn’t be hearing from me on the book any more because so far I had just one purchase. It’s irritating when I read people’s testimonies about the bully issue at work but, aren’t willing to do anything about it. In the book, I don’t just tell my story, I tell you how the HELL to fight it!’ Any response from Reddit? No. I almost don’t want to read anymore from that sub-Reddit. By the way, back at Christmas time, I actually made the 1st version free. Not too many takers, but I thought it would get things rolling.

I guess I could just ask the question – Do we want the general public to be aware of our disorder or do we care about our own awareness? When I found out I had this in the summer of 2004, I wanted to know everything I could about my condition because I knew I was going to have to make some serious adjustments. I cared. I have a wife, children and I needed to know how to properly interact with them as their husband/father. This year really is a mood point because of the worldwide virus. As we move forward, all I can hope for is if those of us on the spectrum have issues, we need to learn all we can about our liberties and our rights – many of which can be found in books. Sad.

Rise Up!

Ever since I was introduced to the social website ‘Reddit’, this has opened my eyes to things that I knew were true but, actually reading it in the website just confirms my belief in those of us who are diagnosed as autistic. Those of us on the spectrum already have to deal with difficulty of living an every day life let alone, having other people piling on the problems we try to avoid. One of my main rallying cries for all of us on the spectrum has been the abuse we take from our own employers. We’re not talking about the customers here, I’ve referring to our co-workers. This may not apply to everyone with autism but, many of us grew up being teased and bullied with no reason why. If we had some true physical deformity then I would understand the cruel teasing these people get but, if we look like everyone else in appearance without saying anything, most wouldn’t think much about it – that’s not the case. After turning 50, I have had enough. Let me share with you some comments that are being made on Reddit about job abuse because of our disability. I elected to remove the names of these people for their own personal privacy.

14 hours ago

I’m pretty sure I just lost my job because “I don’t show enough initiative”, but do my job properly and the way I’m supposed to.

So, I’m diagnosed with ASD and like many of us do, I too have problems with human interactions, but I try my best.. I work at a warehouse where I put together orders and ship them out (underwear & socks). I’ve been working there since January 13th and have done everything I was supposed to, the only thing I don’t do is “interact” with my coworkers a lot because I don’t know what to talk about .. I do however answer their questions and talk to them when I’m being talked to so I’m not impolite in that way.

Today, a coworker wanted to talk to me and said that I’m not showing enough initiative and therefor I’m not exactly a “fit” for that job.. apparently I don’t offer enough help when I should and so on.. (mind you, I do my daily orders, then prepare for the next day – our day ends at 4:30pm and I usually finish putting together tomorrows orders by 4:15pm) … I’ve done exactly what I’ve been told, I’ve helped out, I’ve offered help, but have always been told they don’t need it.

What irritates me the most is that when I put together my next days orders… they’re watching sports on one of the computers in the office or doing crosswords, sudokus – basically just sitting there, doing nothing.

I might not be the most talkative person and not the most “fun” person to be around, but I do my job the way I’m supposed to and have only needed help once because of the holidays and the amount of orders I had (needed help with 5 small orders, but did 32 myself).

I basically hate myself right now, I hate the diagnosis.. I hate my life and I hate ASD and I hate the day I started that job, especially because I LEFT my last job for that one.

UPDATE: I lost my job, I’m being compensated for 2 weeks, but apparently my boss believed my coworkers over me and when I politely tried to stand up for myself (in a very polite, calm manner) I was told I’m being rude and going against their values… our boss isn’t the kind of person you can reason with so I just agreed with the compensation. Tomorrow’s gonna be fun (last day), considering not speaking to my coworkers at all, while I’m there.

Thanks, this means a lot to me.. I did have a moment where I felt like it was my fault, but after I spoke to my boss I realised that this thing was doomed from the start. I think it’s more personal the more I think about it.. they never even seemed like they needed help as they sat in the office more than I had the chance to, watched sports on the tv while I was preparing for the next day and finished up 15 min before the day was done, they were solving crosswords and sudoku and somehow me not showing enough initiative turned out to be a problem. I’ve accepted that loss and I’ll just try to find a job that’s better suited for my character next time.

12 points·9 hours ago

Thank you, Idk why they didn’t go about it the right way. We don’t have a manager per say, we have a “boss” who’s also the owner of the company and my coworker lied about how my boss isn’t happy with me either and has been monitoring the cameras and has noticed that I’m not helping enough.. what a load of bs.

21 points·9 hours ago·edited 9 hours ago

Oh, I feel sorry for you and I know how it feels, because this happened to me with the only job I ever had thus far.

I was working at a call centre asking people to take part in surveys. I was appalled just how much typos I saw in the questionnaires and manuals and how illogical the questions were. Anyway, I did my job, even if I secretly dreamed no one would agree to answer those dumb questions. However, since I told my superior about the illogical questions (people I spoke to kept asking why am I asking those questions), she told me it’s not her fault and that ‘a team works on these questionnaires’ and so it is all verified and there cannot be any mistakes.

Eventually, some person I spoke to made fun of me, but I tried to wrench those answers from him anyway, because nobody agreed to talk to me. I was disciplined for that, since I put the company in disrepute by talking to him. I was then asked ten times in a row do I understand that it was not a good interview. When my superior told me the company values quality, I chuckled, and so she pressed me to tell whether I agree with that, but I just started speaking of those typos and illogical questions. That was that for the time, I was asked to present evidence, I did collect a lot of material, all the typos etc., but was afraid to tell her… I waited until I was asked to, but she never asked. At the time I didn’t understand, what have I done wrong.

Then one morning I was asked to talk to a head of department or something like that and I was once again asked again and again, didn’t I realise that man was mocking me. I had no idea what to say, because they kept asking again and again. Then I mentioned the typos and was told to do my job instead of being a know it all, basically. And then, since very few people consented to answer my questions (like, I talked to people in the middle of the day, who are working and asked them to take part in the survey that would take 15 minutes — why should they have agreed?) , I was told that I need Emotional Intelligence and to be talkative (I am not) and even though I asked, what did I do wrong, I was just told I should learn from others and I am making the climate in the workplace bad, that I had ‘a row’ with my superior (what isn’t true) and I lack the right attitude — after being basically bullied by them, I agreed to leave.

3 points·8 hours ago

Hey, I have been in almost this exact situation. I have never been able to play workplace social politics and it SUCKS. Especially in these kinds of jobs where workers are just seen as cogs in the machine, it often all depends on who likes who the most. I didn’t get fired, I actually quit on the spot because I was being jerked around so much. I was told that if I did x y and z I would be promoted to a certain position, only to come in and find the least competent employee promoted to that exact position because the owner liked her. My manager came up with some seriously BS reasons for why I wasn’t pulling my weight when in fact I worked twice as hard as anyone else there.

Basically, I’m willing to bet that these people are threatened by your competence. They see you as being aloof and trying to show them up. So they have to do things to bring you down to their level, including getting you fired.

For me, quitting was the best possible thing I could have done. I was in panic-mode for a while but in my next job, my boss actually appreciated my strong work ethic and encouraged me to do things on my own initiative. There were no social games. I was not expected to ‘participate’ in everything.

The most important thing for you to do is find a job where you are valued for who you are. Some people are going to value your skills and other people are not. You need to keep looking until you find the people who get you, because they ARE out there. Don’t feel like you have to be stuck with the status quo.

2 points·8 hours ago

I left my last job over something kind of similar. I’d been there for over a year and was next in line in seniority to take over the “Senior Staff” position when the old one left. Instead, they reached out to an employee who had quit a few months before and hired her back.

When they broke it to me, they said their reason was that I’m “too nervous” when talking to people (which has been a thing for me my whole life), even though they’d never once indicated it was a problem before that. I went home immediately that day so I didn’t have a meltdown and handed in my two weeks the day I returned. The employee they gave the position to ended up quitting again within like two months and I got a better job with much better hours and benefits.

I know it’s not exactly the same, but I guess my point is that it could open up the doors for a much better job for you that you’d be more comfortable at. I also think you’d have a very strong case for unemployment, so definitely look into that.

2 points·2 hours ago

Similar thing happened to me too, op.

I left a job that I had for two years to go work at another place. The new, “better” job was a disaster. It was a local small business, and it was single handedly the most disorganized place I’ve ever worked.

They had a whole long list of customers who supposedly hadn’t paid them, which they made me call almost daily to try and get payment. Well I had gotten through my list one day and there was no other work, so I decided to start organizing their filing cabinet. Lo and behold, I found receipts of payment from nearly half of the customers on their list – some from over a year prior.

After that, there was almost no work for me to do. I would get my duties done within my first hour or so of work, and then be sitting by myself at a desk in a supplies room for the other seven. I passed my time by browsing the internet and such, and other employees (whose jobs had absolutely NOTHING to do with mine btw) got mad/jealous and reported me.

I got fired after only two months of working there – for “being lazy”. All while the only other girl I worked with never got anything done, shopped for cars online all day, and would go on rides to “pick up lunch” while still on the clock. Her cousin was our manager though. 🙂

Anyways, I just basically wanted you to know that things will get better from here. It took me six months, but I finally found another job, and a way better one too. By a long shot. My year anniversary with this company is next week, and they could not be more amazing to work for.

I feel that you’re in store for something similar. My advice is to try not to take this to heart like I did. It sounds like we both just worked for idiots. I felt really bad about myself after my termination (still do sometimes), but I’ve been promoted twice already at my new job, and they encourage me every step of the way. I’m told constantly now that I’m a great worker, and that they appreciate me.

Things will be okay. You will find a company soon who truly values you and all of your strengths. Keep your head held high. 🙂

I apologize. I know that was quite a bit to read but the sad part is this only just a small tip of a huge iceberg that I feel isn’t being addressed. Some of the issues are that it’s tough to ‘prove’ their has been discrimination by the employer based on the disability. If there is proof, very few lawyers don’t like trying to take on these cases. We have a right to work a job, to live a life! Yes, I did write a book about my own experience that all of these other people went through themselves. My aim here is not to simply sell more books…my aim to get the word out!!! No one seems to want to listen to us! And others don’t believe this is really happening. I’ve decided to come up with a hashtag acronym that needs to be shared to as many social media networks as possible. FOR CRYING OUT LOUD, NEXT MONTH IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH AND NO ONE SEEMS TO BE PAYING ATTENTION!!!

#BACKSTAB – Bullied Autistic Citizens Knowingly Seek Tolerance Amid Bosses.

I will tell you that my Weirdo 2.0 ebook will be on sale starting March 26th and wrapping up on April 2nd, just in time for World Autism Awareness Day. This will be available in US and UK. https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B083G1P5B3&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_FBwCEb8A9MCWH&tag=mobile0663b9c-20

I will be happy to read any and everyone’s stories. If you want, I can organize everyone’s stories into a book with you getting complete credit for the material.