Between Spectrums

Preparing for the New Year

We all have goals to achieve, whether it's physical or spiritual, and we work towards to making them a reality. We reach for our lifetime goals as we focus on our short term goals. As the new year approaches, we make new year resolutions and changes that we need to make. This year I'm making changes to make my life easier as a college student and as a person. Normally I'm the type of person that makes goals but not working on them. The reason being is that I didn't have enough motivation. But as the new year comes I'm going to be more motivated if I want to get the goals I set for myself. Along with motivation, the goals also need to be realistic. What I mean by realistic is that make sure that you can achieve it. Having a short term realistic goal can help lead you to the main goal you're wanting to achieve.

People with autism also have goals they want to go for. Some want to be singers, writers, athletes, businessmen, actors, etc. But sometimes either laziness or lack of motivation can get in the way of that. In some cases they can distract themselves with things to past their time. Like going on their computer, or watching TV,  playing games, or just sitting around. So how can you help them to reach for their goals? Here's a step by step system that you can do and add a step or two depending on how your friend or relative's needs are.

Step 1: What's up? - Asking them why they don't work towards their goals can really help a lot. It could be that they don't know where to start or don't really want to do the work. Whatever the reason, you can ask to see what's holding them back.

Step 2: Plan it out: Some autistic people need a guide to do they things they need to do. Sometimes having a list or plan where they can see it can help out a lot. Have them plan out their goals and dates of when they should accomplish their goals and give them little reminders once in a while.

Step 3: Starting small - Having small realistic goals can go a long way to achieve their lifetime goals. So if the want to go to college, they can start small by having the goal to finish high school. If they want to loose weight, they can start by going to the gym weekly or start to eat healthier. Or if they want to get into sports, you can encourage them to practice for whatever time is more comfortable for them.

Step 4: Level up - Once they reach their small term goals they can set a much bigger goal to work toward. Which could be write a book, finish a project, or whatever can allow them to grow. 

Step 5: Start again - When their goals are accomplish they can make more goals to work toward with your help or by themselves. If they can do it alone then it's awesome. But if they still need you, then do what you think you can do to help.

Hope that helps out as you start your resolutions for the new year. May you find the goals that you can do, work towards, and accomplish.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher  

Between Spectrums

Traits Aren't Forever

Have you ever wondered how you can tell if someone is autistic? From what people can understand, there are certain traits that someone with autism or aspergers. There are many traits, from hand flapping to running back and forth. But there are some traits that people didn't even know it's a trait. You're probably wondering, what are the some of the other traits? Here is a video of Daniel Jones, a musician from North Wales with aspergers, as he goes over ten of his traits.

In some of these traits I can relate to him and I had some traits in the past. But as I grew older I got over them and I continue to work on the traits that hold me back. Why? Cause I believe even though we have traits, it doesn't mean that we're stuck and can never change. All people can change if they choose to do so. We always work to be the best that we can be. Having traits isn't bad but if there are some that you feel can change as you work on them, then go for it. For example I don't drive cause of the fear of hurting someone and not trusting other drivers to be safe, but I'm working towards getting a license and trusting myself and others behind the wheel. So I can go to places and not always relay on others to give me a ride. I also didn't like sarcasm at first but I got a better understanding of it and can tell when someones joking. I even use it from time to time. Finally, I didn't like certain foods growing up. But during and after my mission I started to try other things and be more heathy. 

I want to change myself as I change my traits. Some easily change but other take a while and sometimes if you stopped working on a trait it comes back. Some you don't have to change if you are comfortable with them. So if you want to work on your traits and see if you can change them, I would suggest going over at least ten of them and see what traits you feel you can work on and go for it. But if you are fine with them that's okay too. Whatever you choose, may it bring you the happiness you're comfortable with.

Thank you for you time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Man in the Mirror

Have you ever looked in the mirror and told yourself that you are an exceptional person? Thinking that you don't need help from anything or anyone because you can take of yourself? I did, except for the mirror part, I thought that as a capable college student that I don't need anybody to help me with my classes. But after a not so great semester and having a talk with my father, I come to realize that I do need help in some aspects of my education. I could have asked tutors to help but I chose not to cause I was stubborn to admit that I needed them. And I was also stubborn to admit to myself that because of my traits, it puts me in the autistic spectrum. I thought that if I said that I was in the spectrum that it classified me as disabled and I couldn't take care of myself. Because of that mind set I wanted to prove that I could take care of myself and never asked for help in my school work. But because of my poor decisions I didn't do so well. 

Sometimes we have to face ourselves and say that it's okay to ask for help and it's okay to say you have some form of autism. Autism is never a bad thing but I personally didn't want to say that I have some form of it cause I didn't want people to treat me like I was disabled. But in college they have tutors and counselors that can help you cause they want to and they don't judge you. Asking for help doesn't make you disabled and it doesn't mean you lack intelligence. It just shows that you have things that you would like some guidance on a certain aspect in your life. Think of it like this, when going a road trip to your destination, It doesn't hurt to ask for directions when you aren't sure on where you're going. Sometimes before we ask for help we have to look at the man, or woman, in the mirror and say to ourselves that it's okay to admit that we have our flaws and it's okay to accept them. 

I've been saying our limitations make us limitless. But I didn't want to accept that I too have limitations and that was my limitation. So I would like to start over. My name is Tay Gallagher, I'm somewhere in the autism spectrum, and I know my limitations can make me limitless just like how you can be limitless. 

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher  

Between Spectrums

Taking the "Chill Pill"

Now the phrase "Take a chill pill" may not be the best thing to say to someone when he/she is mad. But sometimes they do need to. Sometimes when a person with autism gets upset or mad they experience meltdowns. Meltdowns mostly happen with kids when ever they don't get what they want or something sets them off. When they have a meltdown the would scream, hit themselves, flap their hands around, and may damage the area. Now kids with autism do know how to control their temper as they learn to so but there are those that can't and their parents have to restrain them till they calm down. There are some who carry their tempers with them as they reach adulthood. Anger can do more damaging to a person physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. And I had my fair share of having my temper take over me. I don't get mad as much because I don't care too much on the little things in life. But I also know that it's best to let the anger go before it gets to a point where I could explode and hurt someone. 

If an autistic adult has a meltdown it's best if you leave them alone cause they can control themselves and but the ways you can help is find what triggered the meltdown and remove it if possible. Triggers can be any sound or object that may upset the person. Give them the space they need to calm down. Don't talk to them, all they want is silence so they can think. To avoid another meltdown, see what triggers set them off. Ask what don't the like which could lead to a meltdown. They may not like a certain sound or how a room is organized. Either way its best to find the triggers before another meltdown happens.

Now if you have an autistic kid here are some suggestions you can use. Remove the triggers, Make a list of things that affect the meltdown, Massage, Diversions to make the kid happy, Keep calm as you try to clam down the kid, Aromatherapy, Positive feedback, Noise-cancelling headphones, Put up a alone time tent, Hot bath, Teaching them to breath in through the nose and out through mouth, and if they start to hit themselves it's best to restrain them and placing something soft for their heads to avoid possible brain damage. 

Hope these suggestions help you out and if you have other suggestions on how to deal with autistic meltdowns comment below.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher.

Between Spectrums

What Does "Becoming Limitless" Mean?

Becoming limitless, does that sound misleading? If so I apologize for that. The intention of the blog is to inspire the autistic and anyone in the spectrum to believe that they don't have to go by their limits. So for todays post I would like to clarify what it means to become limitless.

Now I still believe that as we overcome our limitations and we become limitless. But I also know that there are somethings that we can't do. For instance Stephan Hawking can just jump out of his frozen state and tap dance while explaining the big bang theory, yet with the help of his computer he's one the best scientist in the world. Stevie Wonder sees darkness all his life, but writes powerful music that has people dancing and singing. Aron Ralston may not have the use of two arms but he still climbs mountains and like adventure. Each of us have limits that we can or can't overcome. With the limits we can overcome it takes some work. Like writing, reading, driving a car, etc. With limits that we can't overcome, you don't need to be ashamed because you have flaws or limitations that can't be fixed. Think of them as a way that allows you to see the things you can do. Some autistic people aren't vocal when trying to communicate but they can have a voice in their writing. Some might never be able to do simple things on their own but they have brilliant minds. And some may not be the best with empathy but they can be there as a friend. To put it simply we may have limits that can stop us but as focus on the limits that we can work on, that's when we become limitless.

When I was in my junior year of high school I looked the traits that an autistic person has and make a list so that I can see what I traits I have or don't have and work on the traits that I have so that I wouldn't have it anymore. So if you or someone you know with autism wants to see what traits you have so you can work on them I suggest you look it up from any where that talks about autism, then make a list, and then see if you can work on the problems to the point where it's not part of your life. If there are problems that you can't fix don't worry about just go to the next one. But don't give up some take time to change as long as you work on them. Some limits might not change at all but some can as you continue to work on them. 

Thank you for you time 

Tay Gallagher

Now if they is anything in the blog that you would like me to know about or if you have any questions about autism please let me know in the comments and I'll be happy to answer.

Between Spectrums

How to Approach The Autistic.

Those who read the last post about being friends with the autistic people, you're probably wondering how can I be friends with an autistic person? How do I engage conversation with them? How can we avoid the awkwardness? What are his/her interests? These questions and more have an answer to them. Here are a few steps to help you as you befriend an autistic person.

Step One: Walk the walk/Talk the talk. It may seem intimidating to approach someone to talk to them or being approached by someone. Some can be really sociable and walk up to you to chat. Like other people, they ask the get-to-know-you questions so they can see what interests you have and see if they can relate to them. If either of stopped talking and leads to a awkward silence, it usually means that they're trying to come up with something to ask or talk about and it does take a short amount of time in doing so. So you could either be patience and wait or, to avoid the silence you can ask a question or two. Some are too shy or very introverted to get out of their way to talk to people. So you'll be the one who does the approaching to say hi and if they say hi back, you can start the conversation. If the don't respond don't take it personally. It could be that they don't talk as much, they prefer to talk to people they know, or they just want to be alone. In any case you can have say that you tried or keep trying till you make a new friend.

Step Two: Be genially interested. As they're talking, you as a considerate person should show that you're interested in what they say. Even if it's something that you're not familiar with. True some autistic people can't pick up the social cues that indicate that your bored or not wanting to be here. But there are those who do and they stop talking about they're hobbies or interested and find things that interest you. If you want to be a friend you have to show that you get to know them. And how can you do so if you're not interested in their lives?  

Step Three: Extend the invitation. If you want to continue on getting to know them, you can invite them to parties, hikes, movie nights, games, activities, church, etc. Not only does it help you and them, but it can help your other friends as they get to know the autistic person you're befriending. Some may have similar interest and some may also have a friend/relative who is autistic. When part of a group, autistic people feel accepted. So when your with friends be sure to include them in the conversation.

Step Four: Keep contact. In the 2010's, we may not have flying cars or hover boards but we do have the capabilities to keep in contact with many people in our lives. Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, Tumbler, Gmail, Email, iPhones, etc. You can exchange info if the autistic so you can still be a friend when they one most. Friendships can last as long as you're in contact with them.

Step Five: Make it last long. What or how ever you do it. It's important to keep your friendship so that it can last long. Cause you might be the only friend he/she has. Friends are hard to come by for them cause some feel that they're too weird or awkward to have friends. So it's up to you both to make sure that your friendship lasts as long as it takes.

I hope these steps help you out and you can make your steps in befriending the autistic. Good luck and hope it goes well.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Unexpected Friends

Have you ever moved to somewhere new and felt that you were alone? That's how Sophia felt till she met Jack (not his real name). She moved to New York from Singapore. Like any other kid who moves to a new town, she doesn't like her new home and school was different to her. She didn't have much friends and felt lonely. Then she noticed a boy who flaps his arms, screams, and often gets pulled out of class by his aids. One day, during lunch, she decides to sit with him. From there he asks her questions, some get to know you questions, and she answers them. They would play together, go shopping, and from the time they share together their friendship becomes strong. When Sophia needed Jack the most he was there as a friend. Because of him, she wants to be a child psychiatrist and has a passion for autism. This story is pretty incredible. One is a girl in a strange new world, the other is a boy in his own world, and together is a friendship that should last for a long time. 

I can relate to Sophia cause I moved to a variety of places. And in each place I made new friends. Some friendships don't last long, but there are some that can stand in the test of time. I have friends from school, mission, work, church, and just in general. How is that possible? There's no secret to making friends. It's simply talking and being friendly to those around you. People with autism can be most faithful of friends. You just need to get pass the stereotypes and allow them to be. Also, speaking from personal experience, don't let your personal pride get in the way of being friends with them or anyone else. It leads to hurt feeling that can or can't be fixed. So I encourage to be friends with people around you, especially the unexpected ones.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

You can find Sophia and Jack's story as well as other stories by going to theautismsite.greatergood.com

Between Spectrums

Sticks and Stones

Has there ever been times in your life when someone calls you something that sounded rude and you took offense to it? Well, I sometimes do. Now it's one thing to be offended that your opinion is questioned and you want to force everyone to agree with you. It's another to actually feel hurt and offended cause you are called something that you know you are not. Around my early teens I was starting to understand sarcasm. So when my siblings would playfully call me something, like dumb or some other name, I took offense. But they tell they were being sarcastic. Now I can tell when someone is just playing around or is being serious and I can be sarcastic myself. Sarcasm can be harmless when knowing your friends and family know that your just joking and you still love them. But when it comes to others, they can take it seriously, especially those who are autistic.

Autistic people, most of them, can't really till that you joking or saying it in a positive way. So when you call them an aspie they might actually get hurt, offended, and feel sad or mad depending on how they view that term. On Facebook, I asked people to see their opinion on using that word to describe autistic people. Some feel that it's not okay thing to say others think that if your not using it as an insult it's fine. In one of the comments a friend asked my opinion on it. I personally think that it's the person's choice to get offended or not but we individually need to be careful and considerate on what we say. Now I'm not gonna start telling you how you should talk, that's entirely up to you. But what I'm saying is that you should be aware of the words, sayings, and terms you use when you're around someone.  

"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me". That saying is ninety five percent correct. But believe it or not, names can hurt. Sometimes harder than sticks and stones. As a writer, I know words can be used to either lift someone up or break him/her down. So I would recommend that when you are talking to someone or calling names, autistic or not, joking or serious. Be sure to think about what you say. Cause names can indeed hurt some people.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Stop Resisting

Yesterday my mother sent me a video about a couple of guys with Aspergers. Danny Raede was diagnosed when he was twelve. Hayden Mears on the hand, was diagnosed when he was five but wasn't told till he twelve. Each wanted a better life than the ones they were living. So with much perseverance, they each made their lives better and together they developed Aspergers Experts. It's a website that helps those with Aspergers with strategies, and mechanisms that can help them deal with their struggles. They write blogs, develop workshops, and make videos, just about anything they can do to help. From personal experience, they know how to inspire and help a lot of people like them. 

So getting back to the video. Here's Raede and Mears talking about they need to not resist your emotional sensations.

I can relate to that. When I was told that I was labeled autistic, I didn't want to let it to be true cause I was born normal. Even when I was filling out my mission papers I put that nothing was wrong with my mental capacity. But after reviewing them before I submit them, my Dad basically put down that I have some form of autism. I didn't want that cause I wanted to serve an actual mission instead of a service mission. But after talking to my parents and letting it process, I just let it out and cried. Sounds petty right? It can be depending on how you look at it. But for me it was realizing that I'm different and I resisted it for a while cause I wanted to be like everyone else. But after that experience, I now know that I have some autistic and some Asperger traits and knowing these traits allowed me to study more about autism. Not only to help myself overcome them but help others as much as I can. So my advice, like what Raede and Mears said, don't resist just let the appropriate feelings flow and see what you can learn from them.

Thank you for your time
Tay Gallagher

For more info and see other videos go to aspergerexperts.com

Between Spectrums

Becoming Limitless

Normally I would tell you a story about a person or people with autism or did something to help those who are autistic. But let me tell you something that is pretty remarkable.

So as I woke up this morning I look at Facebook and I noticed that a friend of mine posted a video. In the video we see that it looks like a "So You Think You Can Dance" competition at another country.   Just when you think it was just gonna be a couple who can dance well and get applause, the guy comes out with the girl and we see that the guy has only one leg and has to go around with crutches. Now that may had surprise the judges and the audience and perhaps wondered if that was going to work. But when the crutches were taken away and the music played, the coupled danced with no problems. The guy, though one legged, performed with skill. They're performing was impressive and so inspiring that the judges and audiences gave them a standing ovation.

Just like how the guy dancer didn't let his limitation stop him from achieving his goals and dreams. Those with autism should not let they're limitations stop them from achieving what they hope to accomplish. Like what I said before we can become limitless. I personally plan to become limitless. I have always been asking people for rides to place. But now I'm taking practice tests to get a drivers license. I also want to be become a writer but I must work on the things I've been working on, like my books and script. What gives me the motivation to get a license and become a writer? Simple I'm wanting to become limitless. Autism can be tough but as you continue to follow your goals you become limitless. People with autism continue to be limitless because the choose to be so. May I encourage you to become limitless. Whatever you think you struggle with, work on it and you will see how much you improve. The possibilities are endless as you rise above your limitations and become limitless. 

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Speaking Without Words

"Not speaking is not the same as not thinking."

Ido Kedar

Ido is a 17 year old boy with autism. And even though he can't speak to communicate he still continues to be an advocate for those who are severely autistic. How is it possible? Well let's take a look at his life for a bit. For the first seven years of his life, he wasn't able to communicate with others and his behavior was erratic, which lead people to think that he doesn't understand the world around him. But around age seven, his mother mother Tracy knew that he can spell words and gave him a letter board. With it he was finally able to communicate and say the thoughts and feelings that have been trapped inside of him. After that he made it his mission to help other severe autistic people be free from misunderstanding and solitude. He currently has a blog and has written a book with essays about his thoughts and experiences. He plans to go to college and continue to talk about autism and help the non-verbal unlock their potential. 

In a way Ido was like me. I wasn't able to talk when I was a little kid. All I did was talk gibberish and that could of been an indication of why some people thought I was autistic. But by the time I was seven my mother told me that I should talk more slowly and that's when I started to talk more clearly. And to this day I'm still talking clearly. Now it wasn't that I didn't understand it was that my mind goes fast and I need to slow down and form out my words and thoughts. Sometimes I have to repeat what I said cause people didn't understand the first time and I have to think on what I want to say before I said it. I wish I can just say what I want to say without thinking it over and that I can speak in front of people without getting nervous. But like other things in life we work on our skills till they are easy to do. In the meantime I found a way to express my thoughts, ideas, and stories through writing.

I can talk and communicate with people. Ido can't really talk but he powerfully communicates through his writing. Autistic, Severely Autistic, Autistic traits, you have the potential to speak your minds in any form of communication and what you say can inspire people around you. That I'm sure of it.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

For more info about Ido please go to www.autismspeaks.org/blog/2013/06/06/heart-autism-17-year-old-advocates-others-severe-autism

And to go to his blog go to idoinautismland.com

You can also buy his book, Ido In Autismland, at Amazon.

Between Spectrums

Out of the Comfort Zone

Have you ever been the kind of person that likes to stay in your comfort zone? Jennifer Lovy was that kind of person till her son Evan, who has autism, inspired her to come out. 

When Evan was diagnosed, she became his advocate to people that either works with him or knows him. When she gets in front of people she would panic. But when she thinks about Evan and what he goes through when placed in uncomfortable situations. Though he has fears he challenges himself to face them, which inspires his mother. One of his fears is fire. At the time he would only watch YouTube videos of fire so he can feel safe. But later on he would slowly overcome his fear. From having only candles to enjoying camping with a camp fire, He's not entirely comfortable around fire but he steps out of his comfort zone to try new things. His example inspires Jennifer to speak in front of school boards and to write down her experiences as an advocate.

Coming out the comfort zone is not that easy. I had to come out of mine to serve a two year mission to Kentucky, to work with troubled youth and young adults in the woods of southern Utah, to go to college to receive a degree in creating writing, even to start a blog to help inspire those with and without autism. Readers, your loved ones with autism are walking examples of getting out of the comfort zone. True it's hard for them to do things out of routine, but they are doing the best that they can. And if they are coming out of theirs you should come out of yours and show that autism is not what the textbooks say. It may not be easy but as you get used to doing things you wouldn't normally do, you and your loved autism can accomplish many things when you're out of the comfort zone.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

For more info but Jennifer and what she's doing for Evan. Go to http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/8238572 

Between Spectrums

Reading Up Instead of Down

Here's a poem I would like you to read.

Today was the absolute worst day ever

And don't try to convince me that

There's something good in every day

Because, when you take a closer look,

This world is pretty evil place

Even if

Some goodness does shine through once in a while

Satisfaction and happiness don't last

And it's not true that

It's all in the mind and heart

Because 

True happiness can be obtained

Only if one's surroundings are good

It's not true that good exists

I'm sure you can agree that

The reality

Creates

My attitude

It's all beyond my control

And you'll never in a million years hear me say that 

Today is a good day

Sounds depressing right? Sounds like there is no hope in this world. But wait! Let's see what it says backwards.

Today is a good day

And you'll never in a million years hear me say that

It's beyond my control

My attitude

Creates 

The reality

I'm sure you can agree that

It's not true that good exists

Only if one's surrounding are good

True happiness can be obtained

Because 

It's all in the mind and heart

And it's not true that

Satisfaction and happiness don't last

Some goodness does shine through once in a while

Even if

This world is a pretty evil place

Because, when you take a closer look,

There's something good in every day

And don't try to convince me that 

Today was the absolute worst day ever

Who ever the fourteen year old writer is, this poem gives us a unique look on life. Like choosing to read the poem up or down, we can choose to be happy or we can choose to be sad. Living with autism, Aspergers, or just having traits of either can be tough and there will be times when you just want to give up but you can continue to press forward with confidence and faith that things get better. Autism is nothing to feel bad about. You can look at it as something that makes you awesome. I mean how many regular people can do what you can do? You may not be what other's consider normal but in reality, there is no such thing as normal because we all act different. So don't ever think that autism is what makes your life miserable but look to the bright side of things and be sure that your life is the poem going up instead of down.

Thank you for you time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Allowing Them to Places

So I woke up at six this mourning, not by an alarm this time, and I was checking on Facebook and I found this in what's trending.

In a recent production of "The King and I", a kid with autism started to yell. As the mother tried to him the other other theater goers started to murmur "Why would you bring a child like that to the theater". Now disturbing a play by yelling would really be rude. But you have to understand that sometimes kids with autism don't quite know how to control their emotions yet. That's what this Broadway actor understood. Kelvin Moon Loh, who was part of the play when it happened, wrote a post on his Facebook page saying that he sympathizes with the mother and praises her courage for taking her son to the theater. And seeing how the audience being insensitive to the situation, he wanted to them to relax and she's really trying. He knows how expensive getting a Broadway ticket can be but he also knows that life doesn't stop because you're wanting to watch a play. He hopes that his post will bring awareness of parents who have children with special needs and that they and their kids have the same right to enjoy the theater like other people. He's getting his wish now, because his post currently has 9,000 shares, 25,000 likes. It's inspiring a lot of people and may it continue to do so.

It's not just the theater that those with autism can go to. When I was serving as a missionary, the ward I was assigned to had a member whose daughter is a full-grown woman but jumps up and down, claps, and shouts with joy and excitement. The mother sits her down and the meeting still continues. Now the members aren't bothered by this because they know them and they understand that the daughter is special and they don't condemn her for that but they appreciate her and her mother coming to church so they too can feel the spirit. Whether it's the theater, church, restaurant, concert, museum, any place should be welcoming to those with autism. For what ever reason they should feel welcomed and accepted. And who knows they may find they choice of career in any of these places. 

If you want to see what Loh has to say in his post, check out his Facebook page.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Judge Yourself and Not Others

Have you ever been to the grocery store and one of the customer's was being rude to a young man who is doing the best he can at his job? Well, this shopper can tell you her story.

She went at the store where she usually gets her groceries. When she was done she went to the check out area. The cashier was scanning the items while the bagger, who has downs syndrome, was carefully packing her bags. A woman behind her was becoming annoyed by how slow he was packing. the shopper assured her that she was done paying. Then the woman insulted her by calling her slow like the bagger and said that special people shouldn't interfere with normal people's lives. The bagger jumps to the shopper's defense by point out the college logo on her sweat pants. And sense she has the logo, it means that she goes to college and is very smart. And the shopper tells the woman that the bagger is the best bagger for being careful. 

Once the bagger was done he gives the shopper her groceries, knowing that she walks back to her dorm. But the woman gets even more irritable and demands to see the manager because the bagger doesn't walk with her to put the groceries away. The shopper tells her that she walks and that talking to the manager about it would be pointless. The bagger says "have a nice day" to the shopper and just when you think the woman couldn't get any worse think again. The woman calls him a retard. Now that was the last straw. The cashier calmly turns to the woman, tells her that because of her discrimination towards the bagger and the shopper, The store won't give her any service. He takes her groceries away, and asks her to leave. But the woman starts to cause a disturbance to the point of breaking a shelf, she was then restrained and had to wait till the cops comes. As she was being restrained, the bagger takes the shopper and another customer to safety behind a cigarette counter. the bagger asks the shopper if she still wants to shop here. Her response was yes. Even with all that happen the shopper will continue to shop there and the smile on the bagger's face makes it worth while.  

When I was at high school there was one student that had a mental disability and at first I didn't like seeing him acting like a complete idiot, letting people take advantage of him, and him disturbing class. There was one time when he got mad and was leaving the teacher tells him to come back because he knows the class loves him but I said "I don't" which shocked the teacher and most of that students. But later on I realized that it's his fault. He may have struggles but that doesn't make him an idiot. The real idiot was me for not seeing him as a great person he is. He loves to give his teachers a hug and he can be really friendly to a lot of people. I judged him too harshly when in reality I can only judge myself and nobody else. 

No one can judge people without judging themselves. We all have flaws and weakness that we individually need to focus on more than pointing out another's flaws and weaknesses. Autistic, Down syndrome, whatever the struggle, we need to show them that they are awesome as they are and avoid judging them because we make mistakes a lot more than they do. So I encourage you to avoid judging cause it's not you place to judge and it's not my place to judge.

For the more detailed version on the story go to www.upmoments.com/rude-woman-humiliates-worker-with-downs-syndrome/

Thank you for your time 

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Standing Up Without Cameras

Hey Readers

So after I finished my part of my homework, I was looking through the Internet hoping to find something to talk about. Then I came across a video that I think you should see. Now this is the first time doing it so hopefully it works

Now let's ask this question. Would you stand up for the autistic boy or stay seated? Would you show courage or stay out of situations hoping they work themselves out? Do you care in reality or when a camera's rolling? If someone was in trouble I would try to help them but if there's nothing I can do, I can leave with the knowledge of knowing that I tried to help. Some people with autism can't really stand up for themselves so it's up to us to help, take courage, and let people know that autism is not a bad thing but a fantastic thing. Readers, we need to stand up for what's right and do so without the need of attention.

Thank you for you time 

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Maintaining Friendships

When I was a kid, my family and I would move to a new place. Among all the places we moved to, there are couple of places that are near and dear to my heart. One of them being a small community called Oakley, Idaho. We actually moved there a couple of times. And what made it awesome was being with my good friend. Though he was a year younger than me and a grade below me, we had a lot in common. Same interests, and we were alike in many ways. But my family and I moved and my friend and I took different paths. When I visited him a while back, he was really different as he changed a lot and it was kind of hard to connect with him. Our once strong friendship is now just a distance memory and he's doing his own thing. Same thing with most of the people I met on my mission, as well as college, it was like once they see me they don't really want to talk to me like I was some creeper they want to get away from. Granted I may had sometimes act strange, but that doesn't mean I'm really strange. It doesn't bother me as much. If a person doesn't want to be my friend it's his or her choice. It just sometimes hurt to think that because of you leaving a bad impression that people don't want to talk to you.

People with autism, like any other person, want a friend that can be there for them. It's hard enough to think that you're different and that you can't do a whole lot of things, but it's quite hard from them to communicate with people and make connections. What they want is people who could understand them, connect with them, and be at their side. Some do push people away either because they want to be alone or not wanting the pains of being rejected, and some may have a snotty attitude that you don't want to be near. But there are those who feel lonely, which may lead them to depression. Now it is a choice to be happy or miserable, but having a friend or being a friend can help a person's self-esteem. Maintaining a lasting friendship is one the many gifts an autistic person can have. So I would like to extend this challenge to you. Whether the person has a disability or not, be a friend to those who you think looks lonely. Talk to them, get to know them, let them know that they can look to you as a friend, and help them maintain that friendship. That can be the best thing that you can do. Because when times get tough, you got a friend in them.

Thank you for your time 

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

The Light You See In Them

Hey Readers

Sorry that it took so long I was working and was getting ready to go back to St. George to head back to college. This time I'll do better in writing down posts every Thursday.

Namaste (The light in me recognizes the light in you)

Through out my elementary and high school days I would go to classes that are there to help those who have a struggle to learn. Whether it be reading, writing, math, or simply memorizing for a test. And in these classes there was always a light that the teachers recognize. And that is the light of those who are autistic. Even when they have a tough time, Some autistic kids choose to be happy and enjoy their lives through their hobbies and interests. True they do get angry or depressed when someone teases them. But most often they choose to be as happy as they can be. And when one does get depressed, even though they lack empathy they can still show sympathy and listen to what the other person has to say. They may know what the person may go through as they listen what the other person says. They are also always ready to help. Whether it be putting boxes away, pulling out weeds, or organizing rooms, they do their tasks because they want to be helpful.

There is a light in all of us. We may not recognize it at first, especially since as humans we tend to judge quickly but appearance and stereotypes without knowing or getting to know the person. People with autism have a light that shines brightly and we don't need to shield our eyes with contempt but see with clarity. We can learn a lot from them, it's our chose to allow ourselves to learn. So I encourage you to not push out the light that's being shown but let it in and see what you can learn.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Acts of Bravery

Hey Readers

A month ago, a young man from New York named Tyler Gianchetta saved his mother from their burning car. Now we all heard many incredible stories of courage and bravery so what makes this any different? I'll tell you it's because he is autistic. They were driving to the West Hills. They were having a discussion. But then she didn't respond to him so Tyler asked if she was ignoring him and still no answer. Then she started to shake and as she was shaking they crashed into a tree. Then the car started to smoke. Now it's a fact that some autistic people can't handle stress as much so they would sometimes freak out or go some where to relax. So Tyler could have freaked out. But he didn't instead he just let instinct take over.

At the crash site people, as they drove by, saw that Tyler was pulling his unconscious mother from the burning vehicle. breaking his hand in the process. Then just a few seconds later the car exploded. When help came, the mother was taken to the hospital for multiple broken bones and is recovering as we speak. Now how she passed out is a mystery but all that matters is that they're both okay. Tyler's father praises his son for his bravery and always knew he is a great kid. Tyler's comment about being a hero was this.

"I say don't call me a hero, I'm not a hero yet until I know she's okay"

I think she will be. Thanks to the actions of her brave son.

We all can show acts of bravery. Whether it be responding to a situation or simply standing up for whats right each of us can courageously act. What Tyler did was truly incredible. It shows that whether one has autism or not we can act and have courage. As I work on the things I lack the courage of. I invite you, No I recommend you, to have courage and whether it's saving a life or showing kindness let the instinct of courage allow us to do what we need to do. Especially helping those with autism who show us that acts of bravery can happen anytime. it's up to you.

Please feel free to comment below and like us on Facebook if like what you read. And for more info on the story of Tyler please go to newyork.cbslocal.com and search for Tyler Gianchetta. And please if you have any questions about autism please comment below.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

To Those Who Care For The Autistic

Hey Readers

As you can tell from the title, I like to dedicate this post to those who take their time to take care of their loved ones who are in the spectrum.

A few weeks ago I saw a great movie called "What's Eating Gilbert Grape?" Which stars Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio. In the movie we see that after his father's suicide Gilbert takes care of his family, including his mentally challenged brother Arnie, In the movie we see that Arnie like to go to the water tower and climb to the top, to the dismay of the towns people. And he likes to hide in the trees as Gilbert and his sisters look for him. Now it shows that Gilbert has a tough time being the man of the house and Arnie can be a hand full. But he stays because he cares about his family and knows that Arnie needs him the most.

I also saw some videos of parents of autistic children as they try to calm them down. In one video a father holds on to his autistic son as he has his meltdown. And when it appears that he isn't calming down his parents took him to a swing set and place him in a hammock like swing and they swing him and the sing a little song till he calms down. Another video shows that autistic child was just sitting on a chair and drawing till suddenly he started to scream, hit the wall, and hit himself. Then his mother places him on the ground, gets a couple of pillows for his head and feet, holds his arms as her husband holds the legs, and tells her son to breath. And it's till he calms down that they get off of him.

I know it's sometimes tough to care for someone with autism. But what you do for them as parents or guardians is greatly admired by all. Autism can be hard for the parents to deal with but it can also be rewarding because as you go through they're struggles with you them, you become closer to them. Just like how later on Gilbert grows closer to Arnie, you can grow closer to your loved ones with autism. So don't give up on them because they didn't give up on you.

Please feel free to check out the Facebook page or comment below if you have any questions about autism also go to Youtube type in autistic meltdown and see how some of the parents deal with their kids when the have a meltdown.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Occupying the Mind

Hey Readers

So yesterday I got back from the field. For the past week I worked with a group of kids who each have tough times in there lives. One of them happens to have autism. When we go hike to our next site he seemed to have a tough time getting his stuff packed and ready to go. It's not that he is incapable he's a very intelligent kid it's the manner of him having a lot on his mind. We would always tell him to get his stuff together but he just occupies his mind with his thoughts to keep him from packing his backpack. Sometime during the week the other staff member and I told him that he can occupy his mind by doing other things like hanging out with the other kids of his group, doing skills like making his fire starter kit, and especially pack his backpack. I'm sure that as he puts the effort into it he can do he lacks in doing and he can help his group and himself.

Those with autism have a lot that go through their thoughts like memories, TV shows, books, or their imagination. So if it looks like that they're not listening to you, it's not that their deaf or incompetent. Because they do hear and understand you. It's just they are in their own worlds thinking of many things. If you're curious as to what they're thinking you can ask them and some do tell you. But some don't tell you because of the fear of  being judged or mistaken for something else. You can tell them that if it's not anything bad they can tell you. And to help them occupy their minds on other things then sitting around and not doing anything you can have them do things like chores around the house or if they're writers to work on their projects. You can also encourage them to express their thoughts through whatever their hobbies are.

Now it's not a bad thing to have thoughts to go through your head. But sometimes your focus should be on things that need to be accomplished. Because if you have goals and want to accomplish them you need to put the effort into it. So I encourage you help those with autism to occupy their minds on things that matter to them as well as things to be done.

Feel free to comment here or on the Facebook page.

Thank you for your time
Tay Gallagher   

Between Spectrums

Living Instead of Watching

"Quasi take it from an old spectator. Life's not a spectators sport. If watching is all you're gonna do, then you're gonna watch your life go by without you."

Laverne

(Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame)

It's true. If you just sit around and let the important things in life past you by, you just wasted the time you been given. Those with autism and autistic traits sometimes lack the motivation to do things they would love to do. Like getting a job, learning how to drive to go to the places they would like to go to, or going on dates that can lead to "the one". Some may just be lazy but others do want these things but just don't know where to start. We can help them out and show them how to do some of the things they find difficult. The rest is up to them with an occasional reminder. 

I defiantly appreciate those who help me as I work as a field staff and transporter for WinGate Wilderness Therapy as I continue to help the kids and young adults that go through the program as they deal their struggles. And also giving me a job that I'm good at and enjoy doing. I also appreciate the friends I made and my family who help me continue trying to be a good person and a better writer. 

Autism may cause some limitations but it shouldn't limit you to have good clean fun with you friends and family. As well as finding a job that they can enjoy and love. The time that we have is precious so spend it wisely and with fun.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher  

Between Spectrums

Opening Doors to New Worlds

Hey Readers

Sorry that it took a while. I was trying to find something to write about. But now I found the inspiration.

A while ago I watched a TV movie about Temple Grandin,  It showed certain points in her live leading up to her talking about autism. When she was expelled from college she went to a boarding school so that she can gain some education. She was having a tough time understanding things. Then it was discovered by her teacher Dr. Carlock, that she is a visual learner. With that in mind, her teachers helped her and she excelled in science. Then she goes back to college with her major in animal husbandry, study of livestock. At first she didn't want to go back to college but Dr. Carlock said "Think of it as a door to new world". So after college she goes to the slaughter house and it was there that she noticed that the cows behavior, like going in circles. She decided to have her thesis to be about the behavior of cows. But after sneaking in the slaughter house she was banned from entering. So it was then that she entered to a new door and wrote about her studies on the livestock. So with a pass she was able to go to the slaughter house and continue her studies. Then after being well known about her articles, She was hired to design a more humane way to give the cows the calm they need as they are about to be slaughtered. But there were people who ruined the design because they didn't see it importance of it which caused Temple to be angry. Then she went to a slaughter house and convinced the people of the slaughter house that her design would helped out in the process. It proved to be very useful. Then she went to an autism convention and from an outburst she talked her autism and what she personally knows about autism. She is now a professor of animal science in Colorado State University and goes to autism conventions to discuss autism.

When I was a kid I would sometimes run around and seem to talk to myself. I'm not crazy I it just means that I have an imagination to create characters and adventures of the said characters. It wasn't until I was 16 around August 2007, That I started to my first book. Which led to writing sequels to it and coming up with more ideas for books. Then it was around 2011 that I decided to write a TV series and get ideas for TV shows. Then as soon as I got back from my mission I decided to write a movie and get movie ideas. From what started from writing a book it led to the dream of being a jack of all trades of writing. It wasn't till a year later that my parents wanted me to write a blog about my experiences with my autistic traits. I was hesitant about the idea because I didn't want to mislead anyone into to thinking I'm autistic or aspergers because I'm not. But after thinking about it I wanted to inspire people so with some help, I'm now writing to inspire.

Like Temple and myself, people with autism or autistic traits can open doors to new worlds that they're interested in and they can make excellent careers from them. We just need to encourage them to open the said doors. Everyone has the potential to be incredible in their chosen fields we just need to show them where the door is at.

I would recommend the movie "Temple Grandin"  if you want to know more about Temple Grandin's life. If you have any questions just comment below. Also feel free to check out the Facebook page.

Thank you for your time
Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

True Colors

Hey Readers

This week the blog's Facebook page just uploaded it's first video. It's a music video from a kid who goes by his rapper name MattyB. He does his version of Cyndi Lauper's song "True Colors". In the video we see a young girl with downs syndrome who goes to a group of girls and asked if she can play with them. But you can tell from their looks that they don't want to be near her cause she's weird. So the leader of the group leads them away from the downs syndrome girl, causing the said girl to feel sorrow. As she goes home, another girl sees how the other girls treated her. So she follows her. When the downs syndrome girl gets home, Her mother goes and cheers her up by making cookies with her. Then the mother hears the door bell and asks her daughter to go see who it is. And to her surprise she sees the girl who followed her. She asked if she can play to which the downs syndrome girl gladly pulls her in her house. They played with dolls and dress up and just having a good time, in which warms the heart of the mother. As the girls draw on the driveway, the group of girls that rejected the downs syndrome girl walked by and noticed that they were coloring. Three of the girls went but the leader was hesitant and then follows them. As they walked up, the downs syndrome girl invites them to color with them. After much coloring, we see that they drew a rainbow. And we see the leader happy to see that the downs syndrome girl is a good person.

Now let's look at the lyrics for a moment. In the video a girl named Olivia Key sings

You with the sad eyes

Don't be discouraged, Oh realize

It's hard to take courage

In a world full of people

You can loose sight of it all

All the dreams inside you

But you feel so small.

It can indeed be discouraging in a world of people who don't truly what goes on in the mind of a person of the spectrum. It can be hard to take courage but when we do we can show that we won't loose sight of the dreams we have and we don't have to feel small.

Then MattyB comes in with.

I can a couple of things

That should never change

Like the feeling of happiness

That you get when you're 

With friends on a summer day

The simple things:

How we work, how we play

How we all should treat each other the same

You acceptance isn't easy though

It challenges us all in some way 

Whether it's color, age, gender, or race

We get uncomfortable 

When someone else is different

And they enter our space 

And it pressures us to be open to change

But take a moment 

Flip the script and try to picture this with roles rearranged

Because your different 

You experience hate

Mistreated not because of actions 

That you've taken or a terrible mistake

But hated on because of your DNA 

Acceptance can be tough and at times uncomfortable. But as we "Flip the script" and see in their perspective, We can see that some people are hated because of who they are. Especially those who are severely autistic and downs syndrome, Which can be uncontrolled. Hate can be damaging to ones self-esteem, especially to those who can take friendly teasing to seriously. So if we take time to look in the perspective of those spectrum we can see how we should more courteous and caring to them.

Continuing with the song

It's crazy all the types

People we can characterize

We laugh when friends tell

Us a story and they start to describe

In funny ways a group of 

People through a stereotype

But when it points back at you

Hold up, that isn't true

You see it's never doing

Harm until it feels unfair

And then we speak up

But wonder why no one else cares

I think the truth is that

We all just want a place to fit in

It's hard enough to find friends

Much less for some other kid

But if we're honest inside

And really wanna do right

Judging others for something 

They have no control over might

Be comical at times

But that'd make me less of a man

The bigger thing I think

Is standing as a leader instead

Sometimes we make fun of people without thinking about how they feel, especially those of the spectrum. But when people make fun of us we sometimes take offense and do what we can to keep our reputations from being tainted. That could make us wonder. Does this person feel this way when I say cruel things about him/her? Don't ever think that those of the spectrum can't feel because they indeed can. If we are honest inside we can change the trend of speaking badly of others and stand as leaders for change. 

Finishing up

I keep believing for the day

We put our difference aside 

And let a person be themselves

Before we cover our eyes

Imagine life without the boundaries

We create with our pride 

And opportunities we loose

Because we judge from inside 

I'm trying hard to rationalize

How somebody can spot a

Splinter with a log in their eye 

There's a legacy that we're 

All equal and the answer is love.

The answer indeed is love. Just like how the kind girl lead an example and was a friend to the downs syndrome girl because of love, We can show love to those of the spectrum. Regardless of who they are or what the have. Love breaks down the boundaries of our pride and allows us to see perfectly. Because those of the spectrum can show they're true colors if we allow them to. I encourage you to show that love to them and show your true colors to them and they will show theirs to you and together you are like the rainbow.

If you want to listen to the song just go to YouTube and look for "True Colors" by MattyB and if you have any questions on autism please comment below. And please check out the Facebook page.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

A Friendship Without Words

Hey Readers

Sorry that I didn't make a post last Thursday. I was pretty busy but now I got time to make this post.

When one is autistic and nonverbal, making friends can be hard. But that doesn't stop Skyler and Kreed from being friends. Besides both of them having autism and being nonverbal, Skyler has Usher  syndrome, deaf, and losing his peripheral vision. While Kreed has mitochondrial disease, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and his only way to communicate is a device that talks for him. When Kreed's mother explained to him that Skyler was deaf and also nonverbal like him he wanted to be friends with him. He even calls him his best friend. And so they're friendship begins. And like any other teenager, they hang out, eat pizza, watch movies, and give each other a helping hand. Because of his peripheral vision, going to new places can be scary for Skyler. So Kreed gives him the help he needs. And Skyler gives Kreed the confidence he needs to be himself and to be the one helps and not be helped. Though they can speak, save Kreed's device, they can communicate to each other in their own way. These guys like to be around each other and their friendship is a testament of selflessness of  any people. 

Growing up I do make friends. But it's tough maintaining the friendships you make. It sometimes remembering some names of great people I met can make it difficult. Even though I remember them I sometimes can't place the name. I served a mission in Kentucky and I would love to visit the people I met. But sometimes I wonder would I remember them? Would they remember me? Would they be glad to see me? Or regard me as a distant memory like how sometimes see people? Sometimes it can be lonely but the one way that keeps out of depression is remembering that I do have friends and family and a Heavenly Father that do care about me and love me. 

We as good people should reach out to people, whether autistic or not. Some people can be shy and nonverbal so we should try to help them come out of their shell by being their friend. And if we are shy ourselves we can try to reach out and be friends who want to be friends with us. Friendship is essential to ones happiness. Let's extend that happiness.

For more info on Skyler and Kreed just go to the Kreed's World blog by his mother Erin. If you have any questions about autism please comment below. And feel free to check out the Facebook page of the blog.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Knowledge Is Power

When I was five years old I once took an IQ test. When I was done I got a low score of 57. My mother thought that the people who did the testing either wrong or didn't do the test correctly. The guy who took the test knew that I was smarter than that. I just had a tough time understanding. But two years later I retook the test and I go a better IQ score. It showed that my intelligence spiked. It defiantly showed that I was not stupid but with work I am smart and I now can understand things that I come across. Now I'm no genius I'm just a guy that had to prove that I am smart. 

Now having intelligence is important but from what I can tell, we use most of it on certain topics that interest us. So when you see that an autistic can show you where a well known city is or tell you who the 25th president is or who won an Grammy for what song in what year but can't figure what the answer is to a math problem, It doesn't mean that they're not smart it just means that they put their focus and memory on things that interest them. They are smart and if they can remember some trivia, they can remember subjects in school. Sometimes autistic children have a hard time understanding things that they come in contact with. So it's truly amazing that we have teachers who do help those who are autistic and have a tough time learning. They take there time to help them in subjects that they lack and they encourage their autistic students to go through their interest and see what they would like to do as a career. 

Temple Grandin is autistic and she turned her interest in life stock and made it into a career that she is proud of, Susan Boyle is aspergers yet gain the courage to take her interest to Britain's Got Talent and become a fantastic singer, and Pulitzer Price winning critic Tim Page acknowledges his aspergers in his writing. Because some have autism we shouldn't expect failure from them, on the contrary we should help them when they struggle with some subjects and encourage them to study hard and look for things that interest them. Because interest and school can lead to a career that they can exhale in.   

If you have any questions about autism, Please feel free to comment below or in the Facebook page. 

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

The World Can Be Like The Infanta

Hey Readers

I apologize for not posting yesterday. It was pretty busy yesterday. Finishing assignments, Registering   for the class I was able to register. Hope this makes it up.

So this week in the reading class, we read the short story called "The Birthday of The Infanta" by Oscar Wilde. In the story it talks about how the Infanta was celebrating her birthday with her friends. She enjoyed the entertainment, but what was most amusing to her was a little dwarf that does a little dance for her and her friends. After the dance the Infanta throw a white rose to the dwarf as a gesture of a good show, while the dwarf misunderstood and took as a sign that the Infanta likes him. So after the Infanta and her friends return to the palace, the dwarf follows her. The dwarf had a pretty happy life. Despite the trees and plants hating him and birds liking him he didn't seem to have a care in the world. But while he was looking for the Infanta he comes across a mirror. At first he thought it was a hideous monster that copied his every move. But to his horror he discovers that it was himself. And it was then that he realized that the Infanta and her friends were laughing at him because of his size and ugliness and it broke his heart to the point where he died. The Infanta saw him and wanted him to dance again so she and her friends can laugh at him again. But he didn't move. It was then that a adviser went to the body and finds that the poor dwarf died. After he told the Infanta that he died of a broken heart she was disgusted and told her friends that in order to play with her one must not have a heart.

You think the Infanta would have remorse for unintentionally killing the dwarf that she would have a change of heart. But it didn't. Sometimes the world can be cruel like that, Some people choose to bully those with autism because they're easy targets that can get angry easily. Bullying is never good because it hurts people. Even if one is just joking, some people with autism can take it seriously and it can be damaging to their confidence and self-esteem. I myself had been an easy target for teasing but I chose to act and not be acted upon. I choose not to let people tease me because the things they say are not true and therefore shouldn't bother me. I can tell the difference between friendly teasing and unfriendly teasing I sometimes do some friendly teasing but bullying is never a good thing. Sometimes like the dwarf, those with autism don't realize till later that mean people laugh at them and tease them a lot. And it can lead to depression. It is important that we talk to them if they ever are depress or sad it's important that we try to talk to them and find out what's wrong. It also applies to other people. May we treat those with autism with respect and show that the words that cruel people say to them are not true. And we should let them that if they do the bullying that it's not a good thing.

If you have any questions about autism please comment below or post them on the Facebook page.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

Finding Your Talent and Let It Grow

Susan Boyle, Dan Aykroyd, Daryl Hannah, James Durbin, Temple Grandin, Tim Burton, Mozart, Albert Einstein, and Adam Young from Owl City. What do they all have in common? They all are a part of the spectrum and have incredible talents which they always have or developed it. There are others of the spectrum that are talented as well. Art, music, sport statistics, technology, in any field you can find one who is autistic, Aspergers, or ADHD and find that they have amazing talent. Even Microsoft saw the talent in autistic people that they have and started to hire them in their company.

Talent is a tricky thing to find. You can either be born with it or find an interest and develop it into a talent. Growing up I thought about one career then change it to another. Some of the careers were unrealistic. It wasn't till August 2007 that I finally found talent and develop it. Growing up I always had adventures in mind, usually from stories that I read or seen, decided to take the latest adventure that came to mind an create a story from it. Then I chose to make it a nine book series, Then came up with other book idea's and started on one of them. Then it escalated to a TV show, Then to a movie script about autism and finding your talent. Still working on them but hey what can you do? 

Some people try to figure out what makes them unique and how can they find it. They do figure it out when they reach to their teens. I found my talent around sixteen. When your loved one with autism does find a talent you can encourage him or her to develop it and who knows it can turn to a fantastic career. If he or she hasn't found a talent yet you can help them by asking them to go through their interests, find what they're good at, and see if they want to make that interest a career. If they found something they're good at you can help them develop it to a talent. Even autistic people have interests you just need to let them tell you what they are, even if it's a simple thing. Talent is hard to come by these days but that can change when you allow those of the spectrum to show their talents and skills to the world.

If you have any questions about autism please comment here or at the Facebook page.

Thank you for your time

Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

The Desire and Motivation to be Independent

Hello Readers

First of all I like to apologize on how my first post come out. I was hoping for a better outcome. But hey you learn from you mistakes and do better the next time. Let me ask you this question. Those of you who are autistic, do you ever want to do things by yourself like live at your own place, have a well paid job, or go to places you like to visit? Parents do you want your child be happy and live independently but you worry that he or she may need benefits to live on because of them lacking some skills. That was a concern for John D'Eri. His Andrew has autism and he was worried that he may not have much of a future. He didn't want Andrew to "fly off the cliff" to services and support. What he wanted for his son was to have a life that included a job and friends like him. So when John drove through a car wash and see what the attendants were doing, he gets an idea "ding!". As we know autistic people have an incredible eye to detail and focus on the task they been given. So John decided to start a car wash with a crew of people in the spectrum, Which included Andrew, and thus Rising Tide Car Wash was born. It now has 43 employees, 35 are autistic. The business is doing great but the key thing is that Andrew and the other employees in the spectrum can now have a job to go to where they are valued and feel like everyone else. It's really awesome that a father didn't give up on finding future for his son. He wanted to give Andrew a way to live and be happy and he has done so.

Way to go Mr. D'Eri and Andrew. Keep up with the good work and the inspiration you give 

Now as for me. I'm currently living in St. George, Utah and live with roommates as I go to college. I don't have a car yet so I get around by walking. It may sound tiring but at least I'm choosing to be independent and go to places I want to go to. I do have a desire to drive it's just I lack the motivation to do so. And it's not the matter of incapability but of fear of hurting someone that hinders the motivation to get a license. So being 23 years old I want get a license so I can go to further more places and give others a ride, like how they give me rides. Also having a car does help when you want to take a date some where. I'm planning to get a license to drive when I'm done with school for a semester. You guys can hold me accountable to that if you want.

A desire to be independent is in each of us and we want to do things we want to do. But some of us lack the motivation to do so. Some autistic people really do want to do things independently but some can be severely autistic or some not so severe but lack motivation. We just need to do our part in making some of their desires a reality. Those of you who want to give someone you know with autism a better future. If he or she is severely autistic you can help by maybe finding a job that is simple and easy to do. Like a job at the market or maybe organize a few files in your office. You be surprised on how focused they can be. Those with not so severe you can motivate them to find a job by helping them look through some help wanted ads on the newspaper or the internet and see what interests them most. Then either they or you can call to set up a interview for the job. And then hopefully they got the job. Now if they're going to college and they want to live in an apartment instead of home you can find a cheap apartment and help him or her sign up. That I like to thank my parents for. As for driving, those who are not so severely autistic you can help them get over their fear of driving by helping them with backing up, parallel park, and using the turn signals. There are other things we can do to help those of the spectrum to be more independent. They have the desire we just need to help them gain the motivation.

If you want to learn more about Andrew and the Rising Tide crew just go to twentytwowords.com/this-dad-started-a-company-to-employ-his-son-his-business-model-hire-autistic-people/

And if you want to ask questions about autism or the blog please comment here or on the Facebook page.

Thank you for time
Tay Gallagher

Between Spectrums

About the Blog and Me

Hello, my name is Tay Gallagher. I'm 23 years old, currently going to college for a Creative Writing major, I work as a transporter and field staff for a wilderness therapy program for troubled teens, I was born in Colorado but moved to a variety of places, and I'm the oldest of six and enjoying it. And as you are probably wondering about the title, even though I'm a regular person I have developed autistic and asperger traits when I was young. Now I don't want to mislead anyone to think that because of these traits I'm incapable of things. I am capable of many things including how to start a conversation, do laundry, wash dishes, use electronics, etc., and I'm smart enough to solve problems by myself. There are still small things to work on I admit, but as I do what needs to be done I can do those things as well.

I rarely tell people about my traits because I didn't want people to look down on me, think I'm not that smart, or think of me as someone who actually has autism or aspergers when in reality I don't. I'm not one nor the other but someone who is in the middle someone who is Between Spectrums. Because of wanting to be normal and do normal things like normal people I wouldn't mention my traits. So when my parents suggest that I should do a blog about my experiences to help inspire autistic people I was a little hesitant because I didn't want to be out of the open for people to read about. But I came to the conclusion that by doing a blog, I can help those with autism, aspergers, ADHD, or anything in the spectrum to see that they are more than their limitations.

When I was young, someone once asked me "Are you aspergers?" I replied "No I'm Tay". And that's true, you are not autistic, or aspergers, or anything. You are you and that's what matters. Hopefully as I continue this blog you can have something to show someone you know and love that their limitations don't limit them but make them limitless. Now if you have any questions or comments about the blog, or autism you can for now post them on the Facebook page, 

http://www.facebook.com/BetweenxSpectrums