There are 3 things that motivate you...
Some reflections on World Autism Awareness Day - April 2, 2023
Good morning, today is World Autism Awareness Day 2023. Thanks to all of you who’ve read, shared and commented on my past posts for #AutismAwarenessDay where I described my wonderful daughter Pepper and being an autism dad during the pandemic.
Today, rather than an article, I offer a video reflecting on my experiences over nearly 15 years as an autism parent, what I’ve learned about myself and how my daughter has changed my perspective on nearly everything.
A little over a year ago, I had the unexpected privilege to set foot on my favorite stage in the world - The Comedy Cellar in New York City. Last summer, the Comedy Cellar launched the “Cellar Talks” offering perspectives, stories and life lessons through short discussion. I had the great honor to opine a bit on my transition from Army officer to autism dad to social media sleuth and what I’ve learned along the way. If interested in watching, here’s the YouTube link to “There are three things that motivate you…..”
The Comedy Cellar has been my place to take a break from work and autism over the last decade. I’ve had the great fortune of watching the best comedians in the world deliver the best jokes ever written. A huge thank you to: Noam Dworman owner of the Comedy Cellar whose been a big supporter of me and has always opened the door for good times and good music, Hatem Gabr for invites to the Live From America Podcast and this opportunity with the Cellar Talks, Stephen Calabria’s consigliere support by, with and through all the Cellar events, and the staff of all the Comedy Cellar venues who’ve gone above and beyond to help my family and friends when we visit for shows - they are an amazing team.
Last and definitely not least, thank you to my family, friends, classmates and coworkers who have provided endless support to Pepper and I over the last 15 years. I would not have made it as an autism dad without you.
For those interested in how they might support those in need on World Autism Awareness Day, I’ve learned as Pepper has grown up that there’s many amazing programs for children with autism, but as those with autism get older, the supports available to them lessen. NEXT for Autism focuses on building better lives for adults with autism and I admire what they do and appreciate their focus on a life of care for people like Pepper. NEXT for Autism also has a comedy connection if you’ve ever watched the Night of Too Many Stars: America Unites for Autism Programs on HBO. Please consider supporting their efforts.
Have a great Sunday, and #worldautismawarenessday.
Clint- I want to let you know that I am proud of you for loving your daughter for who she is. I met you and Pepper years ago in NY at Bear Park near West Point I believe at a Beer Festival. My daughter Kristina Marik was a nanny for Pepper and really loved her. I am a supporter of your view points and your analysis on issues that impact our democracy. I am thinking of subscribing to this program. Appreciate any feedback as to do so. Bob Marik rjmarik@gmail.com
Hi Clint, I just formed Counter-Narcissist Intelligence here on Substack that has a lot of crossover with your talk and work. I would greatly appreciate any thoughts or guidance on how I can help your work and others. My piece Trumpism is Narcissism was endorsed by Dr. Bandy X. Lee, so you know I am not someone just playing at psychology. Recently had my page recommended by former psychotherapist Thom Hartmann too. I have psychological profiles on Musk about how his autism has nothing to do with his bad behaviors despite his claims, on Putin so Americans understand rather than fear his threats of using nukes and on Dark Trolls aka the Dark Triad/Dark Tetrad you discussed. Thanks & good show!