Metaviews 66: Dialogue as an Antidote to Violence
After I have done any public speaking, I regularly play back everything in my head as a harsh critic: did I say too much, did I convey any message successfully, did I miss something, did I say anything offensive?
Instead of that, this time I want to express thanks to Jesse and Mike for setting this up so the three of us can chat together. It was only moments before the record button was being pressed that I learned that Mike would be joining us. This was very uplifting at this moment in my life.
Two years ago in May I was thrown into Autistic Burnout because of a scenario where I felt everything I was as a person was being rejected at my place of work. I had medical issues (Lyme disease) which impacted my neurotype (Autism) in a way that I needed support, but was instead being increasingly reprimanded for not being able to perform “normal” in a hyper-hierarchical and siloed work environment.
While I had no name for it in the past, I have since learned I have Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) - a common co-occuring condition for Autistic people.
My inability to mask due to the ongoing impacts of Lyme disease and Autistic Burnout, and my special interests in more complex philosophical/political issues, has made other relationships complex as well. There are long-term friendships that have needed to be paused (hopefully only paused and not ended…).
While I learn from many people who share content online, most of these interactions are one-way where I’m learning from them but they don’t really know me. I’m more of a fan than an online friend.
Connecting with Jesse and Mike online, they both exposed me to new ideas as well as showed an interest in what I was learning and wanting to share. I’m looking forward to more interactions in the future.
Other participants:
My shout-out was to:
Other articles about is particular era of my life:
Thanks for writing this, Russell. I was nervous as I heard "you might be on the show" and I was relieved to see your smile, hear your warm voice, and listen and interact with you "in real time." I never thought podcasting and online writing could lead to real friendships and personal growth, but it has, and you and Jesse are great proof! Thanks for writing this; I feel the same!
Thank you, Russell. At 70 I will remain undiagnosed, but at least I am finally self-diagnosed. It explains so much that had baffled me my whole life. I'm so glad you are connecting with others. A support network is crucial.