Walks On the Beach Emojis & Text

ᶠⁱʳᵉ ᴬʷᵃʸ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵃˡˡ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱˢ ᵒᵘʳ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ‧ ᔆᵒ ⁱᶠ ʸᵉ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ʷᵒʳᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵉ⸴ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵉᵃˡ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰⁱˢ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᶠⁱʳᵉᵈ ⁱᶠ ᶜᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ "ʸᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵇᵉ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʷⁱˢᵉ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵈᵘʳⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵒʳᵏ ⁿᵒʳ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰᵒᵘʳˢ!" ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵉᵃʳ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᵛᵉʳˢᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ⁿⁱᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉʲᵉᶜᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᵐᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵍᵒ ᵐᵉᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵒᵘᵗ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵒᶠ ʷᵒʳᵏ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵒ ˡᵃᵍᵒᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ‧ "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‽" ᴴᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ ᵏⁱᵈ‧ ᶠᵘⁿⁿʸ ʷᵉ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵒ ˡᵃᵍᵒᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵒᵈˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ʰᵒʷ ⁿᵉʳᵛᵒᵘˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ᶜᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵈᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ᶜʳⁱᵐᵉ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵘᵖ?" "ᴵ⁻ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ⸴ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵉˣᵉʳᶜⁱˢᵉ!" ᴴᵉ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ⸴ ʳᵘⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ʳᵘⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵉᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃᵗᶜʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᵂᵃⁱᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵉ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵖᵃʸ ᵃⁿʸ ʰᵉᵉᵈ‧ 'ᶜᵃⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢʷⁱᵐ?' ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶜᵉᵃⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ˢʰᵒʳᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢʷⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃᶠᵉˡʸ ᵍᵒ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ᵏᵉᵖᵗ ᶜᵃˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵘᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵒᵇˢᵗᵉʳ'ˢ ˢʷⁱᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ⸴ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ˢᵐⁱˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵗ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ "ᴷⁱᵈ ʷᵃⁱᵗ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ˢᵐⁱˡⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ˢʰᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵘⁿʰᵃᵖᵖⁱˡʸ ᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ‧‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ˡⁱᵏᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ˢʷⁱᵐ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵖᵃˢˢᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵘˢᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵃᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ˢᵗʳᵉᵃᵐ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ ᑫᵘⁱᶜᵏˡʸ ˡᵒᵒᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ʷᵃʸ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʰᵒᵐᵉ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ˡⁱᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʲᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵃᵗ ˢᵗᵃᵏᵉ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒ ˢᵗʳᵃⁿᵍᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖˡᵉˢˢ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗˢ ⁿᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ᵉⁿᶜᵒᵘⁿᵗᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ᶜᵒⁿᶠˡⁱᶜᵗᵉᵈ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʷᵒʳˢᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ˢʰⁱᶠᵗ ʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃⁱᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇʸ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ᵖⁱⁿᵉᵃᵖᵖˡᵉ ʰᵒᵘˢᵉ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵖᵃⁿⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵉˢᶜᵃᵖᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁱᵗᵘᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ⁱᵐᵐᵉᵈⁱᵃᵗᵉˡʸ‧ "ᴳᵉᵗ ˡᵒˢᵗ; ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ⸴ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵖʳᵒᵐᵖᵗˡʸ ᶜˡᵒˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ˢʰᵘᵗ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵘᵗᵗᵉʳ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ⸴ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵒᵇ‧‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢᵉᵉᵐᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵏ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʰⁱˢ ᵃⁿᵗⁱᶜˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ᵍᵘᵃʳᵈˢ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ˢᵒ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ᵍᵘᵃʳᵈ ᵘᵖ! ᴬⁿᵈ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵗᵃˡᵏᵉᵈ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ʷᵉᵉᵏ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵒᵗ ʷᵒʳʳⁱᵉᵈ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵒᵐᵉ‧ ᴬˡˡ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵘⁿˢᵉᵗᵗˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ‧ ᴴᵉ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵃᵈ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᵗᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʳᵃˢʰ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵘᵐᵖˢᵗᵉʳ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵃʷˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵉʰⁱⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵘᵐᵖˢᵗᵉʳ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ; ᴳᵉᵗ ᴼᵘᵗ‧" ᴴᵉ ʳᵃⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ‧ "ᴮᵘᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᴰᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᶜᵃʳᵉ; ᴳᴱᵀ⸴ ᴼᵁᵀ!" ᴴᵉ ˢᵃʸˢ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᔆᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ‧ "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵗᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵗʳᵃⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ⸴ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᴶᵘˢᵗ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵉⁿᵍᵃᵍᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ!" "ᴵ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵃʷᶠᵘˡ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʳⁱˢᵏᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ʸᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˢᵗʳᵉˢˢᵉᵈ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ʷᵒʳᵏ⸴ ʰᵉ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴳᵒⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ "ᴶᵘˢᵗ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶜʳʸ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ‧ 'ᴵ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵐᵉᵃⁿᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿ' ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ "ᴳᵒ ᵃʷᵃʸ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵈᵒᵒʳ⸴ ⁿᵒʷ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ "ᴼʰ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ ᴵ ᵗʳᵉᵃᵗᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇ'ˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵗᵒ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ᵐʸ ʲᵒᵇ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ‧ ᴵ ᶠʳᵉᵃᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵘᵇᵇᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʷʳᵒⁿᵍ‧ ᴵ ᵈᵒᵘᵇᵗ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉⁿᵉˢˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᵘᵗ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᴵ⸴ ᴵ ᵈᵒ ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ!"

** ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᴬᵘᵗⁱˢᵗⁱᶜ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴬᵘᵗⁱˢᵐ ᵘˢⁱⁿᵍ ᴬᴵ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐʸ ʷʳⁱᵗⁱⁿᵍ * One fateful afternoon, Plankton meandered along the beach, lost in thought, an unexpected event unfolded. A tennis match, played by tourists near by, sent stray balls hurtling towards him. A tennis ball struck him squarely on the head. As he stumbled to his feet, dizzy and disoriented, the world around him had changed. Plankton found himself struggling with simple tasks that once came so naturally. His job at the local bait shop grew increasingly difficult as he often forgot names. His social interactions grew strained, as he found it hard to read the subtle cues of conversation and often took things too literally. The doctor's diagnosis was clear: the impact had left him with a mild form of autism for life. Karen, ever the rock in their marriage, took the news with a mix of shock and determination. She knew this would be a journey of adaptation for both of them. She dedicated herself to helping Plankton navigate the new landscape of his reality. His mind, now more analytical and detail-oriented, sought patterns and understanding in the overwhelming information. It was as if he had developed an insatiable hunger for knowledge, and this soon dominated their dinner conversations. "Karen," he began, "I've been thinking about the diagnosis." They were at the kitchen table. She looked up from her plate. "We can just keep this between us, Sheldon." "Karen," Plankton insisted, "I think we need to consider what this means for the Chum Bucket." "The Chum Bucket will be fine. You're still you. Just with a different way of seeing the world. You're seeing patterns no one else does. Let's focus on how we can harness that instead of worrying about what you lost." The idea took root in Plankton's mind, growing into a newfound sense of purpose. If he couldn't outsmart Krabs in their usual cat-and-mouse game, perhaps he could out-pattern him. His mind raced with the possibilities, the wheels of his imagination spinning faster than ever before. "If I could see patterns where he doesn't, we could finally steal the Krabby Patty secret!" He began to fidget in his chair, his legs bouncing up and down, a silent metronome to his racing thought. "But what if Krabs finds out? You know how he is, Karen. If he gets even the slightest whiff of weakness, he'll be on us." Karen nodded solemnly. "But you're not weak, Plankton. You're just... different. And if he does we'll deal with it together like everything else." Her words resonated with him and a newfound resolve shone in his eye. "You're right," he murmured. "We'll turn this into an advantage." Plankton retreated to his lab, the cobwebs of doubt slowly giving way to a tangible plan. He pored over blueprints and formulae, his mind racing with thoughts with his newfound focus, a stark contrast to the days when he had flitted from one idea to the next without clear direction. He dissected every encounter with Krabs, searching for patterns in his rival's behavior. His mind was a whirlwind of calculations, predicting Krabs' every move, anticipating his countermoves, and preparing for the ultimate heist. His once cluttered lab now had a method to its madness. The floor was clear of scattered inventions, and his desk was organized into neat piles of notes. His thoughts were no longer scattered; they were sharp. Karen supported him, bringing him snacks and encouraging him to take breaks, for she knew that his mind was fully consumed by his mission. The day finally came when Plankton announced that he was ready to put his new skills to the test. "Karen," he said with a steely glint in his eye, "I'm going to the Krusty Krab." "But Plankton, You haven't been since before..." "It's time. I've figured out a pattern in Krabs' security. There's a blindspot during the lunch rush." Plankton set out. The restaurant bustled with the usual sea of patrons, a cacophony of noise that Plankton found both overwhelming and fascinating. He took a deep breath, focusing on the task at hand, and slipped inside. Making his way to the back, he spotted the safe in Krabs' office. His new analytical mind dissected the room with ease, noting the routine of the employees, the subtle cues in their movements that pointed to the flow of customers, and the exact moment when the chaos of the lunch rush would hit its peak. Timing was everything, and Plankton knew the moment had arrived. He slipped into the office. The combination lock stared back at him, a silent sentinel to the secret he sought. His mind raced through the patterns he had observed in Krabs' behavior, the way he tapped his claw against the desk when nervous, the time he took to drink his tea, the exact moment when his gaze would flick to the safe when the topic of the Krabby Patty formula came up. Plankton took a deep breath, his eye tracing the dial as he dialed in the sequence. The clicks of the tumblers falling into place were the sweetest symphony he had ever heard. With trembling hands, he pulled the heavy door open, revealing the treasure trove with in. His eye fell upon the secret bottle, its contents a murky mystery that could change his life forever. His heart thudded in his chest, a drum roll to the crescendo of his plan. "Plankton!" boomed a voice. He whirled around to find Mr. Krabs, claws balled into fists. The room spun, and the noises of the restaurant outside grew distant. "What do you think you're doing?" Krabs demanded, his eyes bulging with rage. Plankton's brain scrambled for a lie, but his newfound honesty and directness took over. "I've come for the Krabby Patty secret." Mr. Krabs sneered, "You're insane, Plankton. You'll never understand the brilliance of me creation." "But I see patterns now, where I used to see only chaos.." Plankton trails off before he could reveal more. Mr. Krabs took a step closer. "What are you talking about? Patterns? I don't know what you're blabbering on about, but you're not leaving here with that!" He lunged, but Plankton was ready. Using his heightened senses and the patterns he had studied, Plankton sidestepped the attack with surprising grace. The Krabby Patty secret was in his grasp, but he knew to take it back to the Chum Bucket. He sprinted out of the office. The din of the restaurant faded into the background as he weaved through the kitchen, dodging flying spatulas and the frenetic dance of the cooks. The heat from the grills washed over him but he didn't flinch. His eye remained locked on the swinging doors to the alley outside. Karen was waiting for him. Without a word, she opened the hidden hatch that led back to the Chum Bucket. Plankton squeezed through, the warmth of the stolen secret a comforting weight. They descended into the dimly lit lab. Karen looked at him with a mix of amazement and pride. "You did it," she whispered. Plankton's chest heaved with the exertion of his escape. "Yes," he panted, "but Krabs knows I have it." Plankton carefully removed the paper from the bottle, his eye scanning the list. The words and numbers swam but he focused, his mind slicing through the jumble. The list was not in English, but a cryptic code that only Krabs could decipher. The symbols and letters danced in a maddening ballet, but he could feel the tide of understanding beginning to turn. His mind raced, piecing together the puzzle with a speed and precision that astonished even him. He turned to Karen. "It's a code based on the Fibonacci sequence!" "Fibonacci?" Plankton nodded fervently, his antennae waving with excitement. "It's a numerical sequence, Karen. One, one, two, three, five, eight... It appears in nature, in the spiral of a shell, the arrangement of leaves on a stem, the branching of trees. It's a pattern that's been used in everything from art to mathematics!" Karen's trying to make sense of the seemingly random strings of digits and letters. "But how? Nevermind, I hear Krabs breaking in!" Plankton began to recite the ingredients in their proper order, translating the code as he went. "Kelp powder, four... Tartar sauce, one... Mustard seeds, three... Onion powder, five!" The lab door crashed open and Mr. Krabs' furious red face filled the doorway. "Give it back, you tiny menace!" But Plankton was already several steps ahead. With lightning-quick reflexes, he transferred the information from the paper to his photographic memory, his mind now a fortress that contained the Krabby Patty's sacred recipe. Krabs snatched the paper with a snarl, his claw closing around it like a vice. He glared at Plankton, eyes alight with fury. "You think you're so clever don't you?" But Plankton remained silent. The code was in his mind now and no one could take that from him. He had outsmarted Krabs with his own patterns, using the very neurodivergence that had made him feel weak to gain the upper hand. Mr. Krabs looked from the paper to Plankton and back again with suspicion, his claw tightening around the seemingly worthless paper. "You think you've won?" he spat. "You'll never understand the genius behind me Krabby Patties!" With that, Mr. Krabs stormed out of the Chum Bucket with his usual sneer, the worthless paper clutched in his claw. Plankton watched him go, his heart racing. He had done it. He had bested Krabs. As the echo of the slammed door faded away, he turned to Karen, his eye alight with victory. "We've got it," he whispered, his voice quivering with excitement. "The Krabby Patty secret is ours."

Something Spongebob does a great job of is making relatable characters and tackle serious subjects. The characters always face challenges and obstacles, but in the end, they manage to come out on top. The characters show emotion, even though many might not notice. Spongebob isn’t just a cartoon but also huge impact culture society. On internet you can find memes, merch, all over. May 12, 2023 The main characters Spongebob, Patrick, Squidward, Mr. Krab’s, Sandy, Gary, and Plankton, have been loved by many over the years. Their humor and jokes have found a way to make children and adults enjoy watching. Their ability to connect with audiences of all ages is amazing. Even today, it continues to entertain its audience around the world today. These movies are very special.

EMOTIONALLY BONDING WITH A FICTIONAL CHARACTER? THERE’S A TERM FOR THAT: ‘COMFORT CHARACTERS’ Just because they're not real doesn't mean that they can't be a source of consolation or contentment. SEPTEMBER 21, 2021 KAREN LU, YALE UNIVERSITY 8 MINS READ If you have even a toe in the door of fandom (any fandom, really), you have probably come across the term “comfort character.” The term is everywhere: in Buzzfeed quizzes, Twitter imagines, dozens of Spotify playlists and Instagram fanposts. Like the name implies, it’s a fictional character in pop culture and media that people find comfort in, either through identifying with them or wishing to hang out with them like a best friend. For some, comfort characters are so real that even just thinking about them, rewatching their scenes, reading fan fictions or otherwise engaging with them can help stave off anxiety attacks, calm down during panic episodes, or simply provide a hand to hold on to during difficult times. The typical comfort character might be someone fierce and protective of their friends, passionate about their ambitions and goals, or struggling with inner demons. Usually, they have characteristics that are easy to relate to or be inspired by. Or, it can be completely random — there’s no requisite in what makes a comfort character. It might be the plucky main protagonist, the tortured antihero or an innocuous supporting character. Whether they’re conquering a villain, avenging a fallen friend, or simply being happy, people find warmth in following along in their journey or seeing them smile in the face of their own tragedy. Comfort characters exist in part because many people don’t have parents, friends or other social resources that they can talk to or truly open up with. Studies have also shown how comfort characters can actually inspire and improve people. Researchers from Ohio State University coined the phenomenon “experience-taking,” in which people take the emotions from a story for their own. The researchers found that — albeit temporarily and in the right situations — readers could make real changes in their own lives. For instance, the researchers found that people became more likely to vote in a real election after strongly identifying with a fictional character who themselves overcame obstacles to vote. In the long run, comfort characters are simply a part of enjoying a show and finding pleasure in media and fiction.

henshengs Tbh I think fandom generally needs to get better at sitting with the uncomfortable fact that a story/fanwork/meme/whatever can hurt one person and help another sensicalabsurdities This is why I think “tag warning” culture is kinder and more constructive than cancel culture / “no problematic content” culture. One size does not fit all, but if we learn to be more aware of the fact that the same thing can be emotionally validating or cathartic to one person and upsetting to another, and pick up a general mindset of thinking before we post, “what might people need a heads up for in this content?”, we grow more compassionate, more thoughtful, and more understanding of the differences in people’s experiences.

➡️ Content warnings on fiction are a courtesy. ➡️ Not every medium of fiction and storytelling has or is expected to have content warnings or extensive tagging. ➡️ Print novels do not traditionally warn for content in any way. ➡️ Fanfiction did not traditionally warn̵ for content in any significant way. ➡️ An author is only obligated to warn̵ for content to the degree mandated by the format they publish their fiction on. ➡️ Content warnings beyond the minimum are a courtesy, not an obligation. ➡️ 'Creator chose not to warn' is a valid tag authors are allowed to use on. It means there could be anything in there and you have accepted the rısk. 'May contain peanuts!' ➡️ Writers are allowed to use 'Creator chose not to warn' for any reason, including to maintain surprise and avoįd spoilers. ➡️ 'Creator chose not to warn' is not the same thing as 'no archive warnings apply'. ➡️ It is your responsibility to protect yourself and close a book, or hit the back button if you find something in fiction that you're reading that upsets you. ➡️ You are responsible for protecting yourself from fiction that causes you discomforts.

one of the most significant misconceptions i fear some people have about whump is that it’s sadism. For a lot of us, it’s masochist. I can’t speak for everyone in the whump community, but for myself and most of the people i’ve interacted with, we’re empathising with the whumpee, not the whumper. We’re experiencing second- hand their paın and catharsis, and also (my favourite part) the concern and care they receive from others but like… i can totally imagine what it would look like for outsiders coming across our blogs where we consistently fantasise about our favourite characters in absolute agony lol

ᵀʰᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᴼᵘᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ☆ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴊᴇᴀʟᴏᴜꜱʏ "ᴼⁿˡʸ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ" ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ⁿᵉⁱᵍʰᵇᵒᵘʳ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ᵗᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵃᵐᵖ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ʸᵃʳᵈˢ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ‧ "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇⁱᵍ ᵗᵉⁿᵗ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴳᵘᵉˢˢ ᴵ'ˡˡ ʰᵉˡᵖ ˢᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵘᵖ‧‧" ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴳᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ!" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵇᵉʰⁱⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ 'ᵂʰᵃᵗ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᴵ ˢᵘᵖᵖᵒˢᵉ⸴ ʷᵃⁱᵗ‧‧‧' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ!" ᴴᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʸᵃʳᵈ‧ "ᵂʰᵒ ᵉˡˢᵉ ᵈⁱᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ⁱⁿᵛⁱᵗᵉ?" "ᴼʰ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵈⁱᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ˢᵉᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ⁿᵃᵛʸ ᵇᵘᵈᵈⁱᵉˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ'ˢ ⁱⁿ ᵀᵉˣᵃˢ‧ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ'ˢ ᵗⁱʳᵉᵈ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʲᵉˡˡʸᶠⁱˢʰⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵉˢᵗᵉʳ⁻ ᵈᵃʸ ˢᵒ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵐʸ ˡⁱˢᵗ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ 'ᵉᵐ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ʰᵒʷ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ˡⁱˢᵗᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵒʷ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵇʳⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵖᵉⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘ! ᴵ ˢᵉᵉ ᵘˢ ᵃˢ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ⸴ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ‧ ᴼʳ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ᵒʳ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱⁿˢᵗᵉᵃᵈ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ˢʰᵃʳᵉ ʰᵘᵍ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱˢ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ‧ "ᴵ'ᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁿ ᵘˡᵗʳᵃ ʳᵃʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵉʳᵐᵃⁱᵈ ᵐᵃⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵃʳⁿᵃᶜˡᵉ ᵇᵒʸ ᵖᵃᶜᵏ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳⁱⁿᵉ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵖⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵒⁿˡʸ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿˢᵗᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᔆᵒ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢⁱᵍⁿᵉᵈ ᵃ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᶜᵃʳᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᵂʰᵉʳᵉ'ᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳⁱⁿᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ?" ᴺᵒʷ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ⸴ ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᶜᵃʳᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵒʸ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵒᵖᵉⁿˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵈ‧ 'ᴰᵉᵃʳ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ⸴ ᴵ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ˡⁱˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗᵒᵖ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉᵈ ᵐᵉʳᵐᵃⁱᵈ ᵐᵃⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵃʳⁿᵃᶜˡᵉ ᵇᵒʸ ˢᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸ; ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ' "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳⁱⁿᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃᵍᵉˢ! ᴺᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵉⁿ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐʸ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃⁿ ᵃᵐᵃᶻⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵇᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵉˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗˢ ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵒʷᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏ ʰⁱᵐ!" "ᴴᵉʸ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ⁱˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵒᵐᵉ?" "ʸᵉˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ⸴ ᴵ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿ ᶠʳᵉˢʰ ᵃⁱʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᵉᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴬʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ?" "ʸᵉˢ; ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏˢ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ‧ "ᴴᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʳᵃⁿ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ˢᵗʳᵃⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ˡᵃˢᵗ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧‧" "ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ?" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ˢᵉᵉ ʷʰʸ ⁿᵒᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵗʳʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵍʳᵉᵉᵃᵇˡᵉ ˢᵒ ᵉᵃʳˡʸ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ⁱⁿ ᵇᵉᵈ‧" "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉ ʷʰᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ʷᵃʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵖᵘˡˡᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇˡᵃⁿᵏᵉᵗ ᶜᵒᵛᵉʳˢ ᵒᵛᵉʳ‧ "ᴳᵉᵗ ˡᵒˢᵗ; ᵗᵘʳⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ!" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳⁱⁿᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ‧ ᴼⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵍⁿⁱˢᵉᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ⸴ ʰᵉ ˢᵃᵗ ᵘᵖ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵇʸ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᶠᵒʳᵐⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵇʳⁱᵍʰᵗⁿᵉˢˢ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵃⁿ ʰᵒᵐᵉ⸴ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵇᵃᵈ‧ ᴹᵉᵃⁿ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵘʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵒᵛᵉʳ‧ "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ʷᵃⁱᵗ⸴ ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ! ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵉⁿˢⁱᵗⁱᵛᵉ ᵉʸᵉ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ⸴ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ʰᵘᵍᵍⁱⁿᵍ‧

ᶜʰᵒᵖˢ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵈⁱᵈ ᵏᵃʳᵃᵗᵉ! ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉᵐˢᵉˡᵛᵉˢ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵗᵉˡˡ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰᵉ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵖᵃʳᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵖʳᵉᵛᵉⁿᵗˢ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵈᵒⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵖʳⁱᵈᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᶠᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵉʲᵉᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ ᴺᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ ᵇᵘⁱˡᵗ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉˢ ᵈʳᵃʷⁿ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃⁿᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵃˡᵐᵒˢᵗ ʰᵒᵖᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ‧ ᔆⁱᵍʰ‧

ᴬ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᵇᵒʸ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴵ’ᵐ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ, ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ ᵖᵉᵗ ᵒᶠ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ ᴵᵗ’ˢ ʰⁱˢ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ ˢᵒ ᵗᵒⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴵ ʲᵘᵐᵖᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵘᵈᵍᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵃʳᵐ, ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᵈʳᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ˡⁱᵐᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵇʸ ʰⁱˢ ˢⁱᵈᵉ‧ ‘ᴹᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ’ ᴵ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉᵈ‧ ᴱᵃʳˡⁱᵉʳ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ ʷᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ᵗᵘⁿᵃ ⁿᵒᵒᵈˡᵉ ᶜᵃˢˢᵉʳᵒˡᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ’ˢ ᵗᵒ ⁱⁿᵉᵈⁱᵇˡᵉ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖʳⁱⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ‧ ‘ᵂᵃⁱᵗ ᵘᵖ, ʷʰᵃᵗ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʳᵉᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ˡⁱˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵘⁿᵃ ⁿᵒᵒᵈˡᵉ ᶜᵃˢˢᵉʳᵒˡᵉ’ ᴵ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ ᵐʸˢᵉˡᶠ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵖᵉⁿᵗ ʸᵉᵃʳˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ ˢᵉᶜʳᵉᵗ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ, ˢᵒ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱˢ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ… ᴵ ˢᵘᶜᶜᵉˢˢᶠᵘˡˡʸ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ˢᵃᶠᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈⁱⁿᵉʳ ᵉᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʳᵉᵃ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ‘ᵉᵐ‧ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ’ᵗ ʷᵃⁱᵗ! ᵀʰᵉ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᶠ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰ ᵈᵃʸ ᴵ ᵇᵃʳᵏᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ‧ “ᴰⁱᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿ…” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ, ᵈⁱᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿ…” ᴵ ʷᵃᵍ ᵐʸ ᵗᵃⁱˡ ᵃˢ ᴵ ᵈʳᵒᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵖᵉʳ ˡⁱˢᵗ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ “ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ’ˢ…” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿˢ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧ ᴮᵒᵗʰ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴵ ʲᵘᵐᵖ ⁱⁿ ᵉˣᶜⁱᵗᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ‧ “ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ᵈⁱᵈ…” “ʸᵃᵖ!” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ˢᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵉˡⁱᵉᵛᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴵ ᵖʳᵉˢˢᵉᵈ ᵃ ᵇᵘᵗᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ˢⁱᵍⁿ ᴵ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ˢᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ‘ʷᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᵉˡˡ ᴷʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᴾᵃᵗᵗⁱᵉˢ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᵃˡᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳⁱᶜᵉ ᵒᶠ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ, ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ ᵇᵘʸ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ᶠʳᵉᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ ᵒⁿˡʸ!’ “ᴸᵉᵗ’ˢ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗⁱᵉˢ ᵐᵉ ᵇᵒʸ!” ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ “ᴰᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ˢᵉᵉᵐ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ?” ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵒᶠᶠⁱᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ˡᵉˢˢ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ, ᵗʰᵉⁿ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱⁿᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ “ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ…” “ʸᵉᵉˢ…” ᴾᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ! ᴵ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵒ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ʰᵃᵖᵖⁱᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ! “ᴼʰ ᵐʸ ʰᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵃᵇˡᵉˢ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ…” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ‧ ᴵ ᵍʳᵒʷˡᵉᵈ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ…” “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ʰᵒʷ ⁿⁱᶜᵉ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ʷⁱˢʰ ᵐᵉ ᵃ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ!” “ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵇᵉˡᵒⁿᵍˢ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ…” “ᶠⁱⁿᵈᵉʳˢ ᴷᵉᵉᵖᵉʳˢ ˡᵒˢᵉʳ…” “ᴵ’ᵐ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ!” ᴵ ʷʰⁱᵐᵖᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵘʳⁿˢ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ‧ “ᵀᵉˡˡ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵒʷⁿᵉʳ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵃᵐᵉ ˢᵘᶜᶜᵉˢˢ ʷᵒⁿ’ᵗ ˡᵃˢᵗ ˡᵒⁿᵍ‧‧” ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᵐʸ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ‧ “ᴳᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱˢᵗ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵃⁿᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵇᵃᵗᶜʰ…” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵖᵉʳ‧ ᴵᵗ ʰᵃᵈ ᵒᵘʳ ᵗᵘⁿᵃ ⁿᵒᵒᵈˡᵉ ᶜᵃˢˢᵉʳᵒˡᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗ’ˢ ˡⁱˢᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵃʸˢ ‘ᔆᵒʳʳʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ, ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᴮᵒᵇ’ ᵒⁿ ᵃ ˢᵗⁱᶜᵏʸ ⁿᵒᵗᵉ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ‧ “ᵂᵉˡˡ ⁱᵗ’ˢ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸᵃᵇˡᵉ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ⁱᵗ ˡᵃˢᵗᵉᵈ‧” ᴴᵉ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵃ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉ ᵃˢ ᴵ ˡⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃ ᵏⁱˢˢ‧ “ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ‧” ᵀⁱʳᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ, ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵉᵉᵐᵉᵈ ᶜᵒᵐᵖˡᵉᵗᵉˡʸ ᵉˣʰᵃᵘˢᵗᵉᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵈᵃʸ‧ ᵂᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗʳᵃⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ “ᵂᵒᵒᶠ‧‧” “…ᴵ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ…” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵃˢ ʷᵉ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈʳⁱᶠᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ, ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵘˢ ʰᵘᵍ‧

ᴴⁱˢ ˢᶜᵃʳᵉ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᵖʳᵒʲᵉᶜᵗⁱˡᵉ ʰⁱᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ, ʷʰᵒ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ‧ “ᴴᵉʸ‧‧” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ˡᵒᵒᵏ‧ “ᴵ’ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᵏⁱᵈ…” “ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ‧” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈᵉᵈ, ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ‧ “ᴵᵗ’ˢ ᵃᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ…”

ᴮᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᴺᵉᵛᵉʳ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʳⁱᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵀᵉˣᵃˢ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷʰᵒ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵖⁱᶜᵏ ᵘᵖ‧ ᔆᵒ ⁿᵒʷ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʰᵉʳˢᵉˡᶠ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᴮᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒˢᵗ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶠᵒʳ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵃ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵐⁱˢʰᵃᵖ ⁱⁿ ʰᵉʳ ʷⁱʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵉˢᵗʳᵒʸᵉᵈ ᵃⁿʸ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵘᵖˢ ᵒʳ ʰᵒᵖᵉ ᵒᶠ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵛᵃˡ‧ ᔆᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳˢ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ⁱⁿ‧ "ᴵ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵇʸ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ⁱᶠ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵗʳᵃⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ʰᵉᵃᵖ‧ "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵒᵇˡⁱᵗᵉʳᵃᵗᵉᵈ!" ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ‧ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵗᵉᵃʳᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰᵉʳ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵍᵃˡ ᵖᵃˡ ˡⁱᶠᵉˡᵉˢˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉⁿᵗⁱʳᵉˡʸ ᵈᵉˢᵗʳᵒʸᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᵍᵉᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ⸴ ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ; ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ᵗᵒ‧‧" ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵒʷ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵉⁿ‧ "ᴴᵒʷ ᶜᵃⁿ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵃⁿᵍʳⁱˡʸ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ 'ᵉᵐ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˢⁱᵍʰ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ⁿᵉᶜᵉˢˢᵃʳⁱˡʸ ᵃ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᵒᶠ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ'ˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˢᵒ ᵇᵃᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ˢᵗᵃᵗᵉ‧ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁿᵒ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵇʸ ʰⁱˢ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˡⁱᶠᵉ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ⸴ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉ⸴ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉˢᵗ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᵈᵃʸ⸴ ˡᵉᵗ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵉᵐᵒᵗⁱᵒⁿᵃˡ‧ ᴬⁿᵈ ʸᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ˡᵒⁿᵍᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗ⸴ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʰⁱˢ ʷⁱᶠᵉ'ˢ ᵘⁿᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ᵍʳⁱᵉᶠ‧ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃʳᵐ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʰᵉˡᵖ‧ ᔆᵒ ⁿᵒʷ ˢʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵇᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʷⁱⁿᵈᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ˢᵉᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ⁿᵉʷ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ᵖᵒʳᶜʰ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵘʳⁱᵃˡ ᶠᵒʳ ʳᵉˢᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ˢᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵇʸ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢʰᵉ'ᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ ᵍᵒᵗ‧ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵗᵉˣᵗᵉᵈ 'ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʷᵒʳᵏ ʰᵉ ˢᵉᵉᵐᵉᵈ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ' ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰⁱᶠᵗ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᵇʸ‧ ᴴᵉ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᵃ ˢᵐᵃˡˡ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳⁱᵃˡ ᵐᵃʳᵏᵉʳ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ˢᵃⁿᵈʸ‧ "ᴾᵒᵒʳ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱⁿ ˡⁱᵛⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵉˣʰᵃᵘˢᵗᵉᵈ ᵃˡˡ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ‧ "ᴴⁱ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃ ᵈᵉᶠᵉᵃᵗᵉᵈ ˢⁱᵍʰ ᵃˢ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵉˡᵗ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ⸴ ᵏⁱᵈ‧" "ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ ᵃⁿᵈ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵒᶠᶠ‧ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗⁱʳᵉᵈ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵗᵒ ˡⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ˢᵉᵉ; ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷᵒʳᵏ ⁱᵗ ᵃˡˡ ᵒᵘᵗ‧" "ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ'ˢ ᵃ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ⸴ ˢᵒ ⁿᵒʷ‧‧‧" "ᔆʰᵉ ⁱˢ ᵃʷᵃʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰᵒʷ ᵈʳᵃⁱⁿⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ⁱˢ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵉᵃˡ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵍʳⁱᵉᶠ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ‧

Pansyk •6mo ago Personally, reading and writing fanfiction has really helped me with my technical skills. When I look over the fanfiction I have written over the years, I can see how my prose and dialogue have improved. All fiction, whether of the fan or original variety, is built off of the basic idea of "making words sound good." And fanfiction is a perfectly acceptable way to do that. However, the way that fanfiction operates in terms of characterization and plot? That's radically different from original fiction. In fanfiction, characters are already established, so even if you're doing some batshit insane Alternate Universe, everyone already knows the basics of what's up. That's not true of original fiction. You need to devote more time to both fleshing out your characters and establishing their relationships with the rest of the cast. Plot often progresses differently, in part because of the time you just spent showing your readers who these people are, but also because fanfiction and original fiction often follow different structures entirely. Fanfiction is free and accessible to anyone with an internet connection. That makes it useful for new authors, especially young authors. Think of it as swimming in shallow water. It's fun! It can help you build up some strength. Anyone can do it. But it won't completely prepare you for diving into deeper water. So, I guess at the end of the day, reading both will help your development as a writer.

ᴴᵃᵖᵖʸ ᴮⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᵗᵒ ᶜᴾᵁ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ @ALYJACI ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵃˢ ʷᵉˡˡ ᵃˢ ᵖᵉᵗ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ᵃʷᵃⁱᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵃˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏⁱᵗᶜʰᵉⁿ‧ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ʲᵘᵐᵖᵉᵈ⸴ ʰᵃᵖᵖⁱˡʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉˣᶜⁱᵗᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵇⁱʳᵗʰᵈᵃʸ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ!" @ALYJACI

ᴸᶤᵛᵉ ᴸᵃᵘᵍʰ ᴸᵒᵛᵉ {ᴬ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃᶰᶠᶤᶜ ˢᵗᵒʳʸ} ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᶰᵒᵗ ˡᶤᵏᵉ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵃᵈᵐᶤᵗ ᶤᵗ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗᶤᵐᵉˢ ᶠᵒᵘᶰᵈ ʰᶤᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵉᶰʲᵒʸᶤᶰᵍ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵃᶰʸˑ ᴴᵉ ᵗᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰᵃᵛᶤᶰᵍ ᶠᵘᶰ ᵃᶰᵈ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᶜᵒᶰᶜᵉʳᶰ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑ ˢᵒ ʷʰᵉᶰ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ᵃᵗ ᵃ ᵐᵃᶰᵈᵃᵗᵒʳʸ ʷᵉᵉᵏ ᵒᶠᶠ ʷᵒʳᵏ˒ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵖᵖᵒʳᵗᵘᶰᶤᵗʸ ᵃᵗ ʰᵃᶰᵈᵎ "ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵒᶠᶠˑ" ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ˢᵃᶤᵈ ᵃˢ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃᶰˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ ʰᶤˢ ᶠʳᵒᶰᵗ ᵈᵒᵒʳˑ "ᴵ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʷᵉ'ᵈ ᵗʳʸ ʰᵃᵛᶤᶰᵍ ᶠᵘᶰ ᵃᵍᵃᶤᶰ‽" "ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒᵒ ˡᵃᵍᵒᵒᶰ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰˑ" ˢᵒ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ᵗᵒˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵃᵈ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ˡᵒʷᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵛᵒˡˡᵉʸᵇᵃˡˡ ᶰᵉᵗ ˢᵒ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ʰᶤᵗ ᵃ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵇᵃˡˡ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃᶰᵈ ᶠᵒʳᵗʰ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˑ "ᵂᵃᶰᶰᵃ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᵐᵉ ᵇᵘᶤˡᵈ ᵃ ˢᵃᶰᵈ⁻ᶜᵃˢᵗˡᵉˀ" "ˢᵘʳᵉᵎ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʷᶤᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵘᶤˡᵈᶤᶰᵍˑ ᴺᵉˣᵗ˒ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵈᵉᶜᶤᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈʳᵃʷ ᶤᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᶰᵈˑ "ᴵ ᵗʳᶤᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈʳᵃʷ ᴳᵃʳʸ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶰᵃᶤˡˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵈʳᵉʷ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ˒ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᶤᶰᵍ ᵃᵗ ʰᶤˢ ᵒʷᶰ ᵈʳᵃʷᶤᶰᵍˑ "ᴳᵃʳʸ'ˢ ᵇᶤᵍᵍᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃᶰ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢᵎ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰ ᵗᵒˑ "ᴼʰ ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷˑˑˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᵉᵈ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵈʳᵉʷ ˢᵠᵘᶤᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ʰᵒˡᵈᶤᶰᵍ ʰᶤˢ ᵇᵒˢˢᵉˢ ᶠᶤᵍᵘʳᵉ˒ ᵐᵃᵏᶤᶰᵍ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰ ʰᵃʳᵈᵉʳˑ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᶠᵒᵘᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵉᵐˢᵉˡᵛᵉˢ ᵘᶰᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᶤᶰᵍ ᵘᶰᶜᵒᶰᵗʳᵒˡˡᵃᵇˡʸˑ ᴱᵛᵉᶰᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵃᶰᵈ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ʲᵉˡˡʸᶠᶤˢʰ ᶠᶤᵉˡᵈˢˑ "ᴸᵒᵒᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘᶰˢᵉᵗˑ" "ᴼʰ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵎ" ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵖᵒᶤᶰᵗᵉᵈˑ ᵂʰᵉᶰ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵗᵘʳᶰᵉᵈ ᵃʷᵃʸ˒ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ˢᵃᶤᵈ "ˢᶤᵏᵉ˒ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᶤᵗᵎ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵃᶰ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰᶤᵐ ᶜᵃʳᵉᶠᵘˡˡʸ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʰᶤᵈ ᶤᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒʳᵃˡˑ "ᶠᵒᵘᶰᵈ ʸᵒᵘᵎ" ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᶜˡᶤᵐᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃᶰᵈ ᶜʰᵃˢᵉᵈ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ˒ ʷʰᵒ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ʳᵘᶰ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵃˢᵗ ᵈᵘᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵛᵃʳᶤᵃᵗᶤᵒᶰˢ ᵒᶠ ˢᵗᵃᵗᵘʳᵉˑ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ˢᵉᵉᵐ ᵗᵒ ᶰᵒᵗᶤᶜᵉ ᵒʳ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵉᵛᵉᶰᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᶜᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵘᵖˑ ᴬˢ ᵃ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵒᶠ ᶠᵃᶜᵗ˒ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᶤᵉʳ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃᶰ ʰᵉ ᵈᶤᵈ ᶤᶰ ᵃ ˡᵒᶰᵍ ᵗᶤᵐᵉˑ ᴱᵛᵉᶰ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵉᶰᵉᵐᶤᵉˢ ʷᶤᵗʰ ʰᶤᵐ˒ ʰᵉ ᵈᶤᵈ ʰᵃᶰᵍ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵘᶰᵗᶤˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᵇᵘˢᶤᶰᵉˢˢ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵒᵛᵉʳˑ ᴴᵉ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵃᵈ ᵃᶰ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᶠʳᶤᵉᶰᵈ ˢᶤᶰᶜᵉᵎ ᴮᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᵗ ʰᶤˢ ᵍᵘᵃʳᵈ ᵈᵒʷᶰ ᵃˢ ʷᵃʳᵐᶤᶰᵍ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇˑ ᵂʰᵉᶰ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᶤʳˢᵗ ᵗᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ ʰᶤᵐ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᶠᵘᶰ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᵗ ʰᶤˢ ᵖʳᶤᵈᵉ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰᶤᵐˑ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˢᵃᵗ ᵈᵒʷᶰ ᶤᶰ ᶠʳᵒᶰᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵃ ᵇᶤᵍ ᵗʳᵉᵉ ᵃˢ ᵃ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʳᵉˢᵗˑ "ᴸᵒᵒᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳˢᵎ" "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵃ ᵛᵃˢᵗ ᵘᶰᶤᵛᵉʳˢᵉˑˑ" ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʳᵉᵖˡᶤᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᵃᶰˢ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉˢᶤᵈᵉ ʰᶤᵐˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵃˢ ᵒᵖᵉᶰᵉᵈ ʰᶤˢ ᵉʸᵉˢ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᶠᵃˡˡᶤᶰᵍ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ˒ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘᶰ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ᵘᵖ ʸᵉᵗˑ ᴴᵉ ʷᶤᵖᵉᵈ ʰᶤˢ ᵒʷᶰ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ʷᶤᵗʰ ᵃ ᶠʳᵉᵉ ᵃʳᵐˑ ᴴᵉ ᶰᵒᵗᶤᶜᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ˡᵉᵃᶰ ᵒᶰ ʰᶤˢ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵃʳᵐ˒ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ʰᵃᶰᵍᶤᶰᵍ ᵒᵖᵉᶰ ʷʰᶤˡˢᵗ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷʰᵉᶰ ʰᵉ ᶠᶤʳˢᵗ ᵗᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᶠᵘᶰˑ ᴮᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵗʳᵃʸᵃˡ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉᶰᵉᵈ ˢᵒ ˡᵒᶰᵍ ᵃᵍᵒ ᵇᵉᶤᶰᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᶜᵒᶰᵈ ᵗᶤᵐᵉ ʰᵉ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑ ᴺᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵏᶰᵉʷ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ᵇʳᶤᶰᵍ ᵃ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ᶰᵒʷˑ ᵀʰᵉʸ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵃᵐᶤᶜᵃᵇˡᵉ ʷᶤᵗʰᶤᶰ ᵗᶤᵐᵉ˒ ᵃᶰᵈ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃᶰ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵉᶰʲᵒʸᵉᵈ ᵍᵒᶤᶰᵍ ʷᶤᵗʰ ʰᶤᵐˑ ᴴᵉ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ˢᵉᵉᶤᶰᵍ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵇᵉᶤᶰᵍ ʰᵃᵖᵖᶤᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉᵎ ᴬˢ ᵃ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵒᶠ ᶠᵃᶜᵗ˒ ʰᵉ ᵃᶜᵗᵉᵈ ᵠᵘᶤᵗᵉ ᶰᶤᶜᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒᶰ ʷʰᵒ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵒᵘᵗʷᵃʳᵈˡʸ ˢʰᵒʷᶰ ᵃᶠᶠᵉᶜᵗᶤᵒᶰ˒ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᶤᶰᶜᵉ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʸᵉˢᵗᵉʳᵈᵃʸˑˑˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵃˡᶤˢᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉˑ "ᴹᵒʳᶰᶤᶰᵍᵎ ᵂᵃᶰᶰᵃ ᵖˡᵃʸ ᵗʳᵘᵗʰ ᵒʳ ᵈᵃʳᵉˀ" "ᴳᵃᵐᵉ ᵒᶰᵎ ᵀʳᵘᵗʰ ᵒʳ ᵈᵃʳᵉˀ" "ᴰᵃʳᵉᵎ" "ᴵ ᵈᵃʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏᶤˢˢ ᵃ ʲᵉˡˡʸ ᶠᶤˢʰˑˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶰᵉ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵈᶤᵈ ˢᵒˑ "ᴵ ᵈᶤᵈ ᶤᵗᵎ ᵀʳᵘᵗʰ ᵒʳ ᵈᵃʳᵉˀ" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵍᵒ ʷᶤᵗʰ ᵗʳᵘᵗʰˑ" "ᵀᵉˡˡ ᵐᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰᶤᶰᵍ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵛᵉ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵃᶰʸ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒᶰˀ" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᵗʰᵉᶰ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ᵖʳᵒᵐᶤˢᵉ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇˡᵃᵇ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᴵ ᶜᵃᶰ'ᵗ ˡᵉᵗ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵐʸ ʷᶤᶠᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢᶰ'ᵗ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ᵏᶰᵒʷˑˑˑ" "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵐʸ ʷᵒʳᵈ ᵃˢˢᵘᵐᶤᶰᵍ ᶤᵗ'ˢ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵃᶰᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ᵈᵉᶜᵉᵖᵗᶤᵒᶰˑˑˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᶤᵐˑ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᶰᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵒᵖᵉᶰᵉᵈ ᵘᵖˑ "ᵀʰᵉʳᵉ'ˢ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵐʸ ᵒʳᶤᵍᶤᶰ ˢᵗᵒʳʸ ᵗʰᵃᶰ ᵇᵉˢᶤᵈᵉˢ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢˑ" ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ˢᶤᵍʰᵉᵈ˒ ᵗʳʸᶤᶰᵍ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒˡˡᵉᶜᵗ ʰᶤᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ˢᵒ ᵃˢ ᶜᵃʳʳʸ ᵒᶰˑ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵃᵈᵐᶤᵗ ᴵ'ᵐ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᶤᵍᵍᵉˢᵗˑ ᵞᵒᵘ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᴵ ᵈᵒᶰ'ᵗ ˡᶤᵏᵉ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ ᵃᶰᵈ ˡᵒˢᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᶠᵃᵐᶤˡʸ ᵗᵒ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ'ˢ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵃᶰᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʳᵉᵃˢᵒᶰ ʷʰʸ ᴵ ᶠᶤᶰᵈ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʰᵃˡᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵘᶰˢᵉᵗᵗˡᶤᶰᵍˑˑˑ" "ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᵒᶠˑˑˑ" "ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ'ˢ ᵃᶰᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʳᵉᵃˢᵒᶰˑ ᵞᵒᵘ ˢᵉᵉ˒ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵈᶤᵈ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵐ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵃ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˑ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵃᵈ ᵃ ᶜʳᵘˢʰ ᵒᶰ ʰᵉʳˑ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ʷᵉ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵉᶰᵉᵐᶤᵉˢ ʰᵉ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵐ ᵇᵘˡˡᶤᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ ʳᵉˡᵉᶰᵗˡᵉˢˢˡʸ˒ ᵐᵃᵏᶤᶰᵍ ᵐᵉ ᵃ ᵗᵃʳᵍᵉᵗˑ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᴵ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵘᵃᵗᵉᵈ˒ ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃ ᶠᵃᵐᶤˡʸ ʳᵉᵘᶰᶤᵒᶰ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ'ˢ ᵐᵒᵐ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵉᵃᵗᶤᶰᵍ ᵐʸ ᶠᵃᵐᶤˡʸ ʳᶤᵍʰᵗ ᶤᶰ ᶠʳᵒᶰᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵉˑ ᴵ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᴵ ᵈᶤᵈ ᶤᵗˑ ᴵ ᵈᵒᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʷʰᵒ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ'ˢ ʳᵉᵃˡ ᵈᵃᵈ ʷᵃˢ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵐᵉ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵐˑ ᴺᵒʷ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʰᶤᵐ ᵃᶰᵈ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵐᵃᵈ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ˒ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ʷᵉ'ʳᵉ ᵉᶰᵉᵐᶤᵉˢ˒ ʰᵉ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵐ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ʰᵃᵛᶤᶰᵍ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡˑ ˢᵒ ᴵ ᵏᶰᵉʷ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵗᵗʳᵃᶜᵗ ˢᵉᵃ ᵇᵉᵃʳˢ ᵃᶰᵈ ᶤᶰ ᵐʸ ᵖᵃᶰᶤᶜ ᴵ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃᵈˑ ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵃᵗ ᵐᵉ ᵃˢ ᴵ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳᵉᵈ ˢᵉᵃ ᵇᵉᵃʳ ᵃᵗᵗᵃᶜᵏˢ ᵃᵗᵗʳᵃᶜᵗ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰᶤᶰᵒᶜᵉʳᵒᵘˢˑ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵐᵉᵃᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ ᵒᶠᶠᵎ ᴮᵘᵗ ᴵ ʰᵉᵃᵛᵉᵈ ᵃ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᶤᵗ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ'ˢ ᵐᵒᵐ ᶤᶰˢᵗᵉᵃᵈᵎ ᴵ ʳᵃᶰ ᵃʷᵃʸ ˡᶤᵏᵉ ᵃ ᶜᵒʷᵃʳᵈ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃᵈˑ" ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ˢᵒᵇᵇᵉᵈˑ "ᵂʰᵉᶰ ᴵ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ˒ ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃˡᵛᵃᵍᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵃᵇʸ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ᵉᵐᵇᵉᵈᵈᵉᵈˑ ᴴᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡᶤˢᵉᵈ ʷʰᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵐ ʷᵃˢ ᵃᶰᵈ ˢʷᵒʳᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᵉʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵃᶰʸ ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃᵈᵒᵖᵗᵉᵈˑ ᴵ ᶜᵃᶰ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ˡᵉᵗ ᵐʸˢᵉˡᶠ ᶠᵒʳᵍᶤᵛᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴵ ᵈᶤᵈˑ ᴵ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵘᶰᵉʳᵃˡ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉᵐ˒ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵃᵐᶤˡʸ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵐᵉ ˢᵃʸ 'ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᶠᵒʳ ʷᶤᵗᶰᵉˢˢᶤᶰᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉᵃᵗʰ' ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ᵐᵉ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᶤᵗᵎ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃᶰᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵒᶰˡʸ ᵉᶰᵈᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵍᵘʸˑ ᴵ ᵏᶰᵉʷ ᴵ ᵈᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉᵈ ᶤᵗ˒ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ʰᵒʷ ᴵ'ᵈ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵃᵐᵒᵘᶰᵗ ᵃᶰʸᵗʰᶤᶰᵍˑ ᴵ ʳᵃᶰ ᵃᶰᵈ ʰᶤᵈ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵉᵐᵉᵗᵉʳʸˑ 'ᵂʰᵒ ᵈᶤᵈ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᵗʰᶤᶰᵍ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘˀ ᵂʰᵉᶰ ᴵ ᶠᶤᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵉᵐˑˑˑ' ᴵ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ʷᵃᶤᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵐᵒʳᵉˑ ᴺᵒʷ ᴵ ᵏᶰᵉʷ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᶤᵐ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸᵗʰᶤᶰᵍ˒ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵐᵉ ᵃˢ ᵃᶰᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈ ˢᵒᶰ ˢᶤᶰᶜᵉ ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ʷᶤᵗʰ ʰᶤˢ ᵒʷᶰˑ 'ᴺᵒ ʷᵒᶰᵈᵉʳ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵒ ᶰᵒᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃᶰʸ ᶠʳᶤᵉᶰᵈˢᵎ' ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ʰᵃᵈ ᵃ ʰᵉᵃʳᵗ ᵃᵗᵗᵃᶜᵏ ᵃᶰᵈ ᴵ ᵗʳᶤᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵃᵗᶜʰ ʰᶤᵐ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᶤᶰ ᵃᶰᵈ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵃʷ ᵐᵉ ᵗʳʸ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵖʳᵉˢˢᶤᵒᶰˢ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰᵉᵈ ʰᶤˢ ˡᵃˢᵗˑ 'ᵞᵒᵘ ᶜʳᵒˢˢᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᶤᶰᵉᵎ' ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʰᶤᵐ ʸᵉˡˡˑ ᴬˡˡ ᴵ ᵗʳᶤᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ʷᵃˢ ʰᵉˡᵖ˒ ᵇᵘᵗˑˑˑ" ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵏᶰᵉˡᵗ ᵈᵒʷᶰ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵒᵇᵇᵉᵈˑ "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ᵐᵉᵃᶰ ᵗᵒˑˑˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢˑ "ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ʷᵃᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵐʸ ᶠʳᶤᵉᶰᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰᵉᵃʳᶤᶰᵍ ʷʰᵃᵗˑˑˑ" "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᴵ ʷᵒᶰ'ᵗ ˡᵉᵗ ᵃᶰʸ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵗʰᶤᶰᵍ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉᶰᵎ ᴵ ᵃᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ˒ ᵃᶰᵈ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˢᵉᶜʳᵉᵗˢ ˢᵃᶠᵉ ʷᶤᵗʰ ᵐᵉˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵃˡᶤˢᵉᵈ ᶰᵒʷ ʷʰʸ ʰᵉ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗʳᵘˢᵗᵉᵈ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ᶰᵒʳ ᵈᶤᵈ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵈᵉᵉᵈˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉᵐˑ "ᴰᵒᶰ'ᵗ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ʷʳᶤᵗᵉˑˑˑ" "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᴵ'ᵈ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵇᵉᵗʳᵃʸ ʸᵒᵘˑ ᴵ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵃᵇᵃᶰᵈᵒᶰ ʸᵒᵘˑ ᵞᵒᵘ ᵈᵒ ᶰᵒᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷᵒʳʳʸ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵐᵉˑ ᵞᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵃ ʰᵉʳᵒ˒ ᵐʸ ʰᵉʳᵒ˒ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉʳᵒ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵖʳᵒᵘᵈ ᵒᶠˑ" ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵏᶰᵉʷ ʰᵉʳ ᵈᵃᵈ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵖᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ʷᶤᵗʰ ʰᶤˢ ᵐᵒᶰᵉʸ˒ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵒᶜᵃˡ ʳᵉᵗᶤʳᵉᵐᵉᶰᵗ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷᶤᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃˢʰ ᵖʳᶤᶻᵉᵎ ᵞᵉᵗ ˢʰᵉ ᵈᶤᵈ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰᵉʳ ᵐᵃᵗᵉʳᶰᵃˡ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳˑ "ᴾᵉᵃʳˡˀ" "ᴴᵒʷ ᵈᵒ ʸᵒᵘˑˑˑ" ˢʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵉᶰᵗˡᵉᵐᵃᶰˑ "ᵞᵒᵘ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵐᵒᵗʰᵉʳˀ ᵞᵒᵘ'ᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵗʳᶤᵏᶤᶰᵍ ʳᵉˢᵉᵐᵇˡᵃᶰᶜᵉˑˑˑ" "ᴵ ˡᶤᵛᵉ ʷᶤᵗʰ ᵐʸ ᵈᵃᵈ˒ ᴱᵘᵍᵉᶰᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢˑˑˑ" "ᴵ ˢᵉᵉˑ ᴴᵉ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ ᵘˢ ᶤᶠ ʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵃᵈᵒᵖᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵐᵒᵐ ᵖᵃˢˢᵉᵈˑ ˢʰᵉ ʷᵃˢ ʰᶤᵗ ᶤᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵇʸ ᵃ ʳᵒᶜᵏ˒ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶰˡʸ ʷᶤᵗᶰᵉˢˢ ᵐᶤᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶰˡʸ ᵖᵒˢˢᶤᵇˡᵉ ᵒᶰᵉ ᵗᵒˑˑˑ" "ᴵ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵏᶰᵉʷ˒ ᵐʸ ᵈᵃᵈ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉᵎ" "ᴵ ʰᵃᵛᵉᶰ'ᵗ ˢᵉᵉᶰ ʰᶤᵐ ˢᶤᶰᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ʰᶤˢ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ᵖᵃˢˢᵉᵈˑˑˑ" "ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᶤˢ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ᵖᵃˢˢᵉᵈ ʷʰᵉᶰ ˢʰᵉˡᵈᵒᶰ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑˑˑ" "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ‽ ᶠᶤʳˢᵗ ᵐʸ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᵃᶰᵈ ᶰᵒʷˑˑˑ" "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑ" ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ˢᵃᶤᵈˑ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵃᵛᵉᶰᵍᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉᵃᵗʰˢˑˑˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ʷᶤᵗʰ ʰᵉʳ ᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳˑ "ᵂʰʸ'ᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇʳᶤᶰᵍ ᵐᵉ ʰᵉʳᵉˀ" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ˡᵉᵗ ʰᶤᵐ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʸᵒᵘˑˑˑ" "ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ˒ ʷʰᵃᵗˑˑˑ" "ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵖˡᵃʸᶤᶰᵍ ᵇᶤᶰᵍᵒˑ ᵞᵒᵘ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʷʰᵒ ᴵ ᵐᵉᵗˀ ᴵ ᵐᵉᵗ ᵐʸ ᵍʳᵃᶰᵈᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ʷʰᵒ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵈᶤᵈᵎ" "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᵈᶤᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵒˀ" "ᴾˡᵉᵃˢᵉ˒ ᴵˑˑˑ" "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶰᵉ ʷʰᵒ ᵘᶰᵃˡᶤᵛᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ; ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʰʳᵉʷ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵐʸ ᵐᵒᵐᵎ" ᵀʰᵉ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ʷᵃˢ ˢᶤˡᵉᶰᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵐᵉᶰᵗ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ ˢᵉᵗ ᶤᶰˑ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵃᶰ ᵃᶜᶜᶤᵈᵉᶰᵗ˒ ᴱᵘᵍᵉᶰᵉ; ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵖʳᶤᵈᵉ ᵃᶰᵈ ᶠᶤᶰᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠᵒʳᵍᶤᵛᵉᶰᵉˢˢ ᶤᶰ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʰᵉᵃʳᵗᵎ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ˒ ʷʰᶤᶜʰ ʰᵉ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵈᶤᵈˑ "ᵂᵉ ᶜᵃᶰ'ᵗ ᶜʰᵃᶰᵍᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃˢᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ʷᵉ ᶜᵃᶰ ˡᵉᵃʳᶰ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᶤᵗ ᶰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵘᵗᵘʳᵉˑˑˑ" "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ʳᶤᵍʰᵗˑˑˑ"

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The Secret Formula (Is You) strawberry_fieldz Summary: After all these years of searching for the secret formula, SpongeBob miraculously (and very unceremoniously) reveals it to Plankton when they are dating. Stats:Published:2024-07-03Words:759 Days spent with Spongebob were usually full of excitement and adventure, which is why it was so surprising that today had been so relaxed. A walk, a picnic, and now lying together while cloud-watching. They were against the plush green grass of the field where Spongebob had chosen their date to take place. It might’ve even been the same field where they’d first bonded over ‘fun’. Spongebob was sentimental like that. “Look! That one looks like a dinosaur!” Spongebob said and pointed up at the sky. Plankton squinted up at the cloud in question. He wasn't wrong, it did share an uncanny resemblance to an ancient sea monster. “Hey, how about that one?” He pointed to a different one and Spongebob followed his finger with a smile. “It looks like a doomsday device!” Spongebob frowned. “Plankton, you’re not very good at this. That’s the third time you’ve said that!” “Whaaat? I can’t help if they all look like deadly weapons of mass destruction.” Plankton shrugged. Spongebob breathed in a sigh and decided not to press the issue. They both returned to content silence as Plankton folded his hands over his stomach, grinning softly. It wasn’t in Plankton’s nature to smile so often and a strange sense of calm washed over him. The sky was so blue and the day quiet (save for the occasional chirping clam) while his back stretched across SpongeBob’s shirt. One of SpongeBob’s fingers came up to rub his head affectionately and Plankton’s eye closed in bliss. “This is nice,” Spongebob mumbled. Really nice, Plankton couldn’t help but agree. “It is,” was what he said instead. So rarely before did he stop to enjoy life’s moments like this, the way Spongebob had grown accustomed to. It was unusual but Plankton wished this moment would last an eternity. And yet… once Plankton got too comfortable, he would inevitably ruin things. “So… what’s the secret formula?” he asked. He said it so casually he’d hoped Spongebob would answer without thinking, as if on instinct. Though, realistically, he expected the porous sponge to gasp and maybe snap at him, reminding him that even their relationship didn’t change the fact they were business rivals. He’d probably get a good scolding too, while he was at it. Instead, Spongebob matched his nonchalant tone and simply blurted, “There isn’t one.” It was comedic how fast Plankton sprang up, head swiveling to face Spongebob as his eyebrow wrinkled. “What?” He was certain it was a joke, it had to be a joke. Spongebob just stared at him with a smile. “There’s not a secret ingredient,” he assured him, letting out a bemused giggle. “Well- at least, not a food one.” “What are you saying?” “Sheldon…” Spongebob only called him by his name when he was being serious. He sat up a bit and caught Plankton in his hand, holding him close to his face. “The secret is love.” “You’re kidding me,” Plankton deadpanned. "DYAHAHAHAHA!" Spongebob burst into boisterous laughter while Plankton sighed, mindless helplessly trying to catch up with the turn of events. “Nope! I just make them with lots of love!” Plankton put a hand on his head, which was starting to hurt. “So…” he spoke slowly. “This whole time… the secret ingredient was your love?” “When you put it that way…” SpongeBob’s tongue poked out as he thought about it and then nodded. “Yeah, I guess so.” Plankton shook his head and couldn’t help but laugh at the ridiculousness of the situation. All that time and the answer to the formula has been right in front of him. There was no answer, but Spongebob was the answer. He kept laughing and lay on SpongeBob's hand, staring at the colorful sky and feeling the breeze against his antennas. Life felt good. Why did he never realize life could feel this way? Up until now, he’d existed in a constant state of anger and hate. It was nice to let go, to bask in someone else’s love, and finally feel good. “I love you, SpongeBob,” he eventually said with a small, happy sigh. The sponge, who’d been a little worried with his bout of sudden laughter, smiled. He gently kissed the little critter's head. “I love you too, Plankton.” A moment of silence passed as the two relaxed again. Then Plankton opened his mouth, taking a breath- “No, I’m not going to cook Krabby Patties for you to help you take over the world,” SpongeBob interrupted him, rolling his eyes good-naturedly. “Oh, tartar sauce,” Plankton grumbled and crossed his arms. “You’re no fun.” Notes: Oh hey, it's my first plankbob fic! This is dedicated to/inspired by my friend Lee aka @criticalcurve on Twitter. Also, this was inspired by this art by @CaeDios! There's also a The Good Place reference in this, sorry.

ᴹᵉᵃⁿᵗ ᵀᵒ ᴮᵉ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ 'ᵀᵉˡˡ ᵐᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵉᵉ' ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ 'ᴮᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ˢʰᵒʷⁿ ᵐᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢʰⁱᵖ' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵖʳⁱᵈᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴵᵗ'ˢ ˢᵒ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵃᵍᵒ ʸᵉᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵍʳᵉᵗᵗᵉᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʸᵉᵃʳˢ ᵒᶠ ᵗʳᵘˢᵗ ⁱˢˢᵘᵉˢ⸴ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃˡˢᵒ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢʰⁱᵖ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵘʳᵉ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵖᵖʳᵒᵃᶜʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱᵐ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᵒⁿˡʸ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˢᵗ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵉⁿ ˢᵒᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈ ⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗⁱᶠʸ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵃˢ ᵃ ᵛⁱˡˡᵃⁱⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʳᵉˢᵖᵉᶜᵗ ⁱⁿˢᵗᵉᵃᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᶠᵘⁿ ᵒᶠ‧ ᴼⁿˡʸ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵇᵘˡˡⁱᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᑫᵘⁱʳᵏˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵘᶜʰ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵖˡᵃⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵃ ⁿᵉʷ ˢᶜʰᵉᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵒᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢʰⁱᵖ ⁱⁿˢᵗᵉᵃᵈ ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵒᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ʷⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖᵉᵉᵏᵉᵈ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ʷⁱⁿᵈᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴴᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʲᵘᵐᵖᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʷⁱⁿᵈᵒʷ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵗᵉᵖˢ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴱʰ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵖⁱᶜᵏ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᴳᵉᵗ ˡᵒˢᵗ!" ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗʰʳᵉʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ˡᵉᶠᵗ‧ "ᴵ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ⁿᵉᵃʳ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ?" "ᔆᵘʳᵉ⸴ ᵏⁱᵈ!" ᴴᵉ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ‧ ᴬˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰᵉᵈ ᵐᵉʳᵐᵃⁱᵈ ᵐᵃⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵃʳⁿᵃᶜˡᵉ ᵇᵒʸ ᵐᵃʳᵃᵗʰᵒⁿˢ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵉˡᶠ‧ ᴼᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿ ʷʰᵒ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵉʳᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ‧‧‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ!" ᔆᵃⁱᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ʳᵃⁿ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒʳᵖʰᵃⁿ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ⸴ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᵐᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᶠᵃˡˡᵉⁿ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʷᵃʸ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵘʳⁿ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ⸴ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵃ ᵇᵒˣ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵇⁱᵍ ʲᵒᵘʳⁿᵃˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵖⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵈⁱᵃʳʸ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢⁿᵒʳᵉᵈ ˢᵒᶠᵗˡʸ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏᵉʸ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵒᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʲᵒᵘʳⁿᵃˡ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵃˡˡ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ‧ ᴬˢ ʰᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵃˡˡ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗ⸴ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵃʳʸ ᵇᵉᵍⁱⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵉ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ᵃᵍᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠˡⁱᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵃˢᵗ ᵖᵃᵍᵉ⸴ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʳᵒᵗᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴺᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵉˡˢᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ ʲᵘᵐᵖᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵗᵒʳʸ ᵒᶠ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ‧ 'ᴰᵉᵃʳ ᵈⁱᵃʳʸ⸴ ᴵ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵃ ᵐⁱˢᵗᵃᵏᵉ‧ ᴬ ᵇⁱᵍ ᵐⁱˢᵗᵃᵏᵉ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ʷⁱˡˡ ᶜᵒˢᵗ‧ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ ʷᵃˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵉᵗʳᵃʸˢ ᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁱˢ ᵐʸ ᵖᵃʳᵗⁿᵉʳ ⁱⁿ ᶜʳⁱᵐᵉ‧ ᴵ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃ ᵇʳᵒᵗʰᵉʳ! ᵂᵉ ᵃᵈᵒʳᵉᵈ ᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢʰⁱᵖ‧ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ ʷᵃʳⁿˢ ᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃⁿᵍᵉʳˢ ᵒᶠ ᵉˡᵉᶜᵗʳⁱᶜⁱᵗʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ʰᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵒ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵒʷˢ‧ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵐⁱⁿᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵃᵗʳᵒᶜⁱᵗʸ ᴵ ᶜᵒᵐᵐⁱᵗᵗᵉᵈ ᵃᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗᵃˡˡʸ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ʷⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳˢᵗᵃⁿᵈ‧ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵘʳⁿ ʰⁱᵐ! ᴵ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵐʸ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ⁱᶠ ⁱᵗ ᵐᵉᵃⁿᵗ ˢᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ! ᴮᵘᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ ⁱˢ ʰᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ᶠᵘⁿᵉʳᵃˡ‧ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍᵒ⸴ ᵃˢ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿⁿᵒᵗ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᵃʳ‧ ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵖᵘˢʰᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈⁱˢᵇᵉˡⁱᵉᶠ ᵒᶠ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢʰᵒʷ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵇᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ ᵖᵃⁱᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳⁱᶜᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ⁱᵗ‧' ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ʳᵉᵃᵈⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵈᵃʳᵏᵉˢᵗ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵉˢˢⁱᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵈᵈᵉⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˡᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵉᵉᵈˢ ᵃ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᶜᵘᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ‧ ᴿᵉᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵃʳʸ ˡᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏᵉʸ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒˣ⸴ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒˣ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᵗᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵍʳⁱᵉᶠ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵃᵛᵉᵈ ᵇʸᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵈᵃʸ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁱⁿᵛⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵛᵉʳ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵒⁿᵈ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵖⁱᶜᵗᵘʳᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴳⁱᵒᵛᵃⁿⁿⁱ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵛⁱˡˡᵃⁱⁿ ᵒʳⁱᵍⁱⁿ ˢᵗᵒʳʸ‧ "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ‽" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ‧ 'ᴮᵉ ᶜᵒᵒˡ ˢᑫᵘᵃʳᵉᵖᵃⁿᵗˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ᶜᵒᵒˡ‧‧' ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉ‧

💙 Most kids with ASD are either hypersensitive or hyposensitive to stimuli like noises, lights, touch, etc. If someone has Autism and/or PTSD, he/she may be more prone to sensory overload and startle more easily. That means there’s not much information about how typical treatment methods can or should be adjusted for patients with ASD. According to this article, a nurse could… Offer home-based services Use more visual aids, such as gradient scales to describe degrees of emotion Keep appointment times regular and predictable as much as possible Provide sensory toys or allow children to bring their own Emphasize the possibility of a “happy ending” after trauma―​“this correlates well with the documented effectiveness of social stories, narratives and role-playing in therapy involving individuals with ASD” Be mindful of how often society dismisses the emotions of autistic people Involve other trusted caregivers …and more. Essentially, the therapist should keep the child’s unique strengths and limitations in mind at each step and be open to flexibility. Remember to… Not take behavior personally Be willing to listen without pressuring him/her to talk Identify possible triggers and help him/her avoid them Remain calm and understanding when he/she is emotional Let him/her make age-appropriate choices so he/she feels in control of his/her life Be patient 💙

You cant change ATomicFLDR Spongebob smiled as his eyes fluttered open, and he was met with the face, er eye of his Plankton, who had been watching him sleep for the past, thirty minutes, wondering what it was that the sponge dreamt of, whenever he wasn't dreaming about rainbows made out of candy, and sunshine, if he dreamt of him. Plankton sighed, he was too good for him, how could someone so pure, love someone as dark, and evil as him? It wasn't like what he had with Karen, he couldn't control Spongebob like he could her, but he, could certainly control him, just by that smile. Which always had to be glued to his face, for if he ever so frowned, he vowed to destroy any and everything that made his sponge upset. He wondered when the day would come when he’d finally open those big beautiful blue eyes, and see the monster that he was, and, when he would finally turn away, but, he sighed again, he wasn't looking forward to that day, so for now, he’d enjoy the little happiness he brought him. Plankton was a fool, to fall for someone so pathetic, so childish, and so, cod, what was is it? That made him fall to his knees? Maybe it was his innocence, maybe it was what he secretly loved about him, him being so different from the rest, he never brought him down, he never called him bad names, never called him a loser, why was he so kind to him? “Morning, Sheldon.” Spongebob softly spoke, normally that name would send shocks of anger down his antennae, but he liked it when he called him by his first name rather than Plankton. Those eyes blinked, reflecting the bright lights from the sun that peaked through the blinds of the window. “Morning, Spongebob.” he smiled, and Spongebob closed his eyes and tugged the blanket over his shoulder before looking back at him, “How was your sleep?” he asked, and Plankton sighed with a smile, “Good, I dreamt that I’d finally gotten that formula, and all of Bikini Bottom was finally ours.” he smiled, normally, Spongebob would sweat at his thoughts of world domination, but why put the little man down? Even Plankton was allowed to dream. “Ours?” Spongebob questioned, and Plankton blushed, “Well, every great ruler is gonna need someone to sit beside them, when I finally have that formula, this world will be ours, and you will sit at my side, if you want.” he shrugged, and Spongebob ran his finger up Plankton’s side. “Oh? I will?” he questioned, and Plankton looked away, “Well, yeah.. I mean, once we become rulers, no one can push us around, they can't tell us we can't be together, if they dare laugh th-” Spongebob clears his throat. “What?” he cocked his brow, Spongebob shrugged, “I don't like revenge..” he answered gently twirling his finger around in the sheets before he returned his gaze. Plankton sighed, “Then what then?” he asked, and Spongebob smiled, kissing his eye, “Let them laugh, as long as we’re happy- it shouldn't matter, right?” he smiled as he pecked the side of Planktons head, and Plankton sighed, “You’re too good for your own good.” “Oh but you love me.” he chuckled as he picked him up. “And to rub our happiness in your boss’ face while i'm at it.” He admitted and Spongebob just scoffed, he didn't care as long as it didn't involve stealing the formula. Spongebob sighed as he stood back up, “I'll see you tonight.” Stats: Published:2018-08-20

😷 Before beginning trauma-focused therapy it is important to stabilise the individual with emotional coping strategies and creating feelings of safety. Support strategies that have been found to be helpful in the general population include: mindfulness and grounding in the present moment creating feelings of safety (for example an object/picture that symbolises safety) sensory soothing Autistic people may require: a greater number of sessions a longer or shorter duration to each session regular breaks. 😷

😷 Treatments should be appropriately adapted for autistic people and their individual needs. (Rumball et al. 2020) and Kerns et al. (2022) suggest a number of other events that autistic people found traumatic: abandonment by/loss of a loved one (for example a family member, pet or support staff) sensory experiences (for example fire alarms) transitions and change (for example school transitions, routine changes with the seasons, unpredictability in day to day life) social difficulties and confusion (for example difficulties interpreting social cues, misunderstandings and conflicts) events related to one’s own mental health difficulties (for example psychotic experiences). Autistic people may also be more likely to find these experiences traumatic due to autistic characteristics such as: sensory sensitivities communication and social interaction differences distress around changes to routines distress if prevented from taking part in repetitive and restricted behaviours such as stimming. Some theories suggest that other factors associated with being autistic, may mean an increased risk of developing or maintaining PTSD symptoms But just because symptoms aren’t crippling doesn’t mean you're not affected. 😷

😷 https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/health-and-wellness/our-care/exploring-the-promise-of-at-home-cervical-cancer-screening 😷

Why autistic people are like cats: - We are highly sensitive. - We don't like loud or sudden noises. - We are easily spooked and startled. - Especially because we are zoning out, like, all the time. - We love to be held and touched and petted and cuddled bUT ONLY IF IT WAS OUR IDEA! - We're picky eaters. - Easily distracted. - Solitary creatures. - Takes us a while to warm up to people and be comfortable around them. - Our idea of being "social" is just hanging around the vicinity or in the same room as other people but not necessarily interacting with them. - We are finicky, particular, meticulous creatures of habit and we have a comfort zone we will defend with our lives. - If we deem you worthy, you will be allowed into our comfort zone. - Gaining our love and trust is super rewarding because it is not easily done. Be flattered. - If you touch us unexpectedly we will flinch or jump. - We are awesome predators and get super intense about stuff one nickname for the ADHD gene is "the hunter gene") - We are cute and lovable and have a lot of personality. - Many autistic children love to feel enclosed and secure and so love secret hiding places and cubby holes (i.e., "if I fits, I sits") - We sometimes appear to freak out at nothing and scamper away for no reason but really it's because we can hear things you can't and some sounds bother us. - Because we have such hyper-sensitive senses, any snuggles you give us will be a million times more rewarding for you because you'll know and appreciate just how intensely we're enjoying them. - Please give us food or we will boop your nose in your sleep.

😷 https://neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/ptsd-and-autism 😷

ᴸᵒᵒᵏˢ ᔆʰᵃʳᵖ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᵇᵃʷˡⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᵀᵒ ᵐⁱˢᵉʳᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜʳʸ ᵃⁿʸ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ ᵈᵉᵛᵃˢᵗᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍˡʸ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵉʸᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵗᵃᶜᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ ʳᵃⁿ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗᵒ ʲᵉˡˡʸᶠⁱˢʰ ᶠⁱᵉˡᵈˢ‧ “ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ…” “ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᶜᵃʳᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵉ…” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵒᵇᵇᵉᵈ, ᵇᵃᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʷᵃʸ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ ˢᵉᵉ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡˡ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᵗʰᵒʳⁿ ᵇᵘˢʰ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵃᵐ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵒ’ˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᵉⁿᵗᵃⁿᵍˡᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵛⁱⁿᵉˢ ʳᵉⁿᵈᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒᵗᵃˡˡʸ ʰᵉˡᵖˡᵉˢˢ‧‧ …ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ’ˢ ᶠᵘᶻᶻʸ‧ ᔆᵒʳᵉ ᵃᶜʰᵉˢ ᶠˡᵒᵒᵈᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉˢ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵒᵖᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ‧ ‘ᴬᵐ ᴵ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᴮᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ’ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖᵒⁿᵈᵉʳˢ‧ “…ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ…” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ’ˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ? ᴴᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃⁿ ᵘᵖʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ⁿᵒ ᵉⁿᵉʳᵍʸ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ˢᵒ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ˢᶜʳᵃᵗᶜʰᵉˢ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵃʳᵐˢ, ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʰᵒʳⁿˢ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵗᵒ ʷᵉᵃᵏ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵃ ᵍᵃˢᵖ‧ “ᵂʰ…” “ʸᵒᵘ’ˡˡ ᵖᵘˡˡ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢʰⁱᵉˡᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡ ᑫᵘⁱᶜᵏ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ʷᵉᵗ ʳᵃᵍ‧” “ᵂʰᵃ…” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᵃ ᶜᵒᵒˡ ˢᵉⁿˢᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ʳⁱⁿˢⁱⁿᵍ‧ “ᴳᵒᵒᵈ ʲᵒᵇ! ᴺᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃˢʰ ᶜˡᵒᵗʰ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵃ ᵇⁱᵗ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ?” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᴴᵒʷ’ᵈ ᴵ ᵍᵉᵗ…” “ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵉˡˡ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᵖᵃᵗᶜʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵒʳⁿˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ˡᵘᶜᵏⁱˡʸ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵒᵐᵉ‧‧” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ “ᴵ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵃˡˡ ᵐʸ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ‧‧” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵉˡˡˢ‧

💙 https://neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/ptsd-and-autism 💙

"disabilities aren't aesthetic" Yes, but you don't need to say this under the posts of disabled people showing off cute mobility aids, decorated med organisers, a cute bed set up, the art piece that represents their disabilities, etc. Whether theyre your fellow disabled folk or especially so if you're able-bodied/neurotypical, allow disabled people freedom of expression and the little joys they can. People cope with their disabilites in diverse ways, and sometimes that means you will see a disabled person romanticizing their life, or making their aids aesthetic. Someone existing and expressing themselves, making their lives more comfortable and enjoyable, should not be seen as ”glorifying” anything. I’m not telling anyone to go make themselves disabled, nobody should take their health for granted.

ᔆᶜʳᵃᵖᵉᵈ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵃˡˡ ᵒᶠᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵇⁱᵏᵉ⸴ ˢᶜʳᵃᵖⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵏⁿᵉᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᵇⁱᵏᵉ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᶠˡᵃᵗ ᵗʸʳᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵇˡᵉᵉᵈⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴸᵉᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵒ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧‧‧" ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ‧ "ᴹᵘᵐ!" ᴴᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ⸴ ᶜᵃʳʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ "ᴸᵉᵗ'ˢ ʷᵃˢʰ ᵒᶠᶠ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵃᵗʰ ᵗᵘᵇ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧" ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳⁱⁿˢᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᶜᵒˡᵈ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵈʳʸ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵃ ᵇᵃⁿᵈᵃᵍᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶜᵃᵇ‧ "ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵒʳ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ⁱᶜᵉ?" "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ⸴ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ!" ✿𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 𝟽𝟽

Info tips for practitioners w/ autism and/or sensitivities First, thank you for caring. Not trying to question your expertise in health. Now, Autism is a spectrum. It’s not something one can turn off. It’s not a choice. Most of us are not trying to be demanding. If any thing, we’re afraid of being seen as childish, picky, high maintenance, bossy, rude, etc. We can easily get overwhelmed. We want to compromise with you. If we ask for another nurse to do something or if we know we cannot handle a procedure without certain accommodations, it’s not personally attacking against you. You have the power to provide the care and provide us any options; individuals know their own personal tolerance and needs. We do not ever want to start arguments. We do not want to inconvenience you over something, as we do not feel entitled. Having sensitivities not by choice, as it is more than inconvenience but also painful. We always feel when you do your best. We’re both human, autistic or not. It is not a choice.

|￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣| | I love my friends a lot, | | I just suck at talking | | to them regularly | |＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿| (\__/) || (•ㅅ•) || / 　 づ

Hi, friends! I like emojicombos.com because it’s easy for me to use, being public domain. I also like to express myself through writing, as an author with Autism. So thank you Emoji combos and keep it up!

For Employers w/ disabled workers If a person who has a disability wants to work they might have difficulty getting jobs. There are different types of disabilities to varying degrees. First, inform them the expectations of the job. Make sure they know how to do the job as you train. Give warnings (and explain why behind the warning) before resorting to termination, as some people might not under stand what they did wrong. Even if the disability is confidential, explain to coworkers not to give the employee a hard time, without divulging. Don’t touch the employee or their belongings (including any mobility aids) without asking them first. Allow the employee extra time if necessary so as to not overwhelm them. Monitor the surroundings to make sure no harassment takes place, possible barriers to accessibility, etc. Try not to get frustrated if they do something differently than what others might do, such as note reminders, etc.

ᵁᵖˢᵉᵗ ᵂᵒʳᵗʰ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵒᶠ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᵂᵉ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵒ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵒʳᵗʰ ⁱᵗ!” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒˢˢ‧ ᴵᵗ’ˢ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ʰᵉ ᶠᵃⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᵃʸ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʳᵉᵃˢᵒⁿ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ʷᵒʳˢᵉ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ, ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ‧ “ᴵ ˢᵉᵉ ⁿᵒ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧‧” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ, ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵉᵉᵐᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈⁱˢʳᵉᵍᵃʳᵈ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ʰᵒʷ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ʰᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏˢ‧ “ᵂʰᵃᵗ ʷᵉⁿᵗ…” “ᴵ’ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵒᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ!” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁿᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ ʷᵉᵃᵏˡʸ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵒᵒᵐ, ᶜˡᵒˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵇᵉʰⁱⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢⁱᵍʰˢ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵘᵍ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ’ˢ ⁿᵉᵉᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵖʳᵒᶜᵉˢˢ‧ ᴴᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ’ˢ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵒʷˢ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵗʳʸ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵗⁱʳʳᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴬⁿᵈ ʸᵉᵗ, ˢʰᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ˢʰᵉ’ˢ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ, ᵇᵘᵗ ˢʰᵉ’ᵈ ᵃᵛᵒⁱᵈ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵖʳʸⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ “ᔆʷᵉᵉᵗˢ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ’ˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ’ᵐ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵒʳ ˡⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ‧ ᴵ ᵃᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵗᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ, ⁱˢ ᵃˡˡ‧” ᔆʰᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴿⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵐⁱⁿᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ’ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ, ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˢᵒ ʷᵒʳᵗʰˡᵉˢˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ‧ ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᵖᵖʳᵉᶜⁱᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ’ˢ ᶜᵒⁿᶜᵉʳⁿ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ, ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ‧ “ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿʸ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ, ˢʷᵉᵉᵗˢ?” ᴴᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ˢʰʳᵘᵍᵍᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ʷⁱⁿᵈᵒʷ ᵃˢ ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ʷⁱⁿᵈᵒʷ, ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ‧ ᴳᵒⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ “ᵂʰʸ ʸᵒᵘ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?” “ᵂᵒʳᵗʰˡᵉˢˢⁿᵉˢˢ‧‧” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳᵉᵈ ʰᵒʷ ʰᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᴵ’ᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ‧‧” “ᴵ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʷᵉ’ʳᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ’ᵈ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ‧” “ᴼʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᴵ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵐᵉᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵘʳᵗ ʸᵒᵘ! ᔆᵒ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ, ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ‧‧” “ᔆᵘʳᵉ ᵏⁱᵈ, ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵒʷⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᵖᵒˡᵒᵍʸ‧” “ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢᵖᵉⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ‧‧” “ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢʰᵃʳᵉ ᵐʸ ᵇᵉᵈ ⁱˢ ᵇⁱᵍ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ!” ᔆᵒ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˢʰᵃʳᵉᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ‧ ᔆᵒ ᵗʰᵉⁿ, ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵘʳˡᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ʰᵉˡᵈ ʰᵃⁿᵈˢ‧ ╰ ✧ ･ﾟ∙ ∗ — ᴡᴏʀᴅ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ ⟨ 3 7 0 ⟩

What’s disabilities? Being disabled can have various meanings. Physical disabilities are usually more visible. Even so, it might not be readily apparent. One individual can have more than one disability. But it’s not by choice, even in an elective amputation, mental disorders, ptsd vía warfare, etc. Some disabilities are more invisible, if internal or having to do with mentality. No matter what disability, it’s important to not have unreachable standards whilst at the same time not be patronising. Some disabilities are from congenital, meaning they were born with it or had their whole life. Some disabilities are acquired later in life such as an external injury they got.

Cartoons » SpongeBob SquarePants English, Friendship & Romance, SpongeBob, Sandy, Plankton, Karen 2013 Karen was still thinking about all of the good times that she and Plankton had together. "I still remember this… it was a little over a year after he built me he asked me to marry him and since I was already programmed to love him of course I said yes. Plankton doesn't show much of his affection, but when he does he gets this cute little blush on his face and his antennas curl up a little bit. I haven't really thought this through very much… even though I felt ignored and unloved I know he still loves me, he just doesn't always show it. Sometimes he just has one of those days when he feels smaller than a rock. Actually in some cases depending on the size of the rock he is smaller than some of those rocks, but that's not really my point. My point is I've always been there for him when he really needed me and well he keeps me free of viruses so in a way he takes care of me too. Ok… I've thought about it enough… I'm going home. It turns out that I need my little "Planky" as much as he needs me." Karen makes her way back to the Chum Bucket and starts looking for Plankton, she is surprised when she saw Spongebob and Sandy there. They were also looking for Plankton and Karen was surprised when she found out that Plankton was not home. Spongebob asked Karen if she knew where Plankton was. Spongebob and Sandy left Karen for a minute and they went across the road to check to see if the formula was still in the safe. When they realized that the formula was safe they went back across the street to the Chum bucket. "Sorry Karen… Plankton was not at the Krusty Krab. Do you know of anywhere else he would go?" "No I don't know where he could be… he was probably upset when he realized that I was gone and went to look for me, but since my tracking device and communication device was down there was no way for him to track me and the only place you can track me is here. He could be anywhere… as small as he is I can't help but worry about him, anything could happen to him. I don't know what to do?" Spongebob and Sandy head back to the treedome and Plankton heads back towards the Chum Bucket. He thought about what had happened the previous day and still felt ashamed of himself for how he had treated her. He was worried that if she didn't forgive him that she would just leave him again. Karen was at the Chum Bucket having regrets about leaving Plankton. She still felt underappreciated, but she felt worse knowing that Plankton was still out there and may not return. She then had a happy feeling came over her... if Plankton didn't care about her, why would he be out there looking for her? Since Plankton was so small, it took him a while to get around on foot, but finally after an hour he came in and looked around for her. "Karen are you back?" Karen heard him and answered from the other room. "I'm in here Plankton." Plankton came in out of breath, but once he walked up to her he jumped up on her moniter hugging her and crying. "Karen... I'm so sorry for the way that I acted. I shouldn't have ignored you, I should have listened to every word that you had to say. I found myself alone, having no friends is one thing, but to have no wife is even worse." "But you always told me that I wasn't even really your wife and that I was just a computer." "I know... I said that and I know I can't take back what I said, but I was foolish thinking that I could get anywhere without you. I programed you this way... there is no one else like you. No one understands me the way you do. Well Karen... I'll promise you this... if you give me another chance I promise I'll stop obsessing over the formula so much and spend more time with you. You've done so much for me Karen... you deserve so much better than me, I need you but you don't need me. Why did you come back?" "Well because you programed me to love you first of all, and I always will, but you were wrong about one thing." "What?" "You think I don't need you, I do need you Plankton. Only you know how to protect me from viruses. If I were ever to go anywhere else, it just wouldn't feel right because I've always been with you Plankton." "So does that mean that you forgive me?" "Oh come on... you know I can't stay mad at you, and if you ever stopped obsessing over the formula I think I'd have to do an identity check on you. You know we could try to steal it together some time. If you stopped going after the formula you would take away what makes you the way you are." "But seriously Karen... I promise I'll start spending more time with you, and I promise that I will never ignore you again." Karen displays a smile on her screen. Then Plankton hugs her again. "I love you Karen." "Aw... I love you too Plankton. The two of them smile at each other and go into the main part of the Chum Bucket where together they discussed how they would steal the formula. Switching Lives by TheWyattQueen

ᶠᵘⁿ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘⁿ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ "ᴸᵉᵗ'ˢ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠᵘⁿ!" ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ⸴ ᵃˢ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ˢⁱᵗˢ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ᵗᵒʷᵉˡ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵃᵖ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵒ ᵃʰᵉᵃᵈ‧" ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳˢ ᵃᵗ ᵍᵒᵒ ˡᵃᵍᵒᵒⁿ‧ "ᴴⁱ ᵏⁱᵈ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉʸ; ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ˢʷⁱᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵒᵒᵗ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵗᵘᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ᵇᵉᵗʷᵉᵉⁿ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʳᵒᶜᵏˢ ᵒⁿ ᵃᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ‧ "ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵗᵃˡˡ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗᵒ ʰᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵃˢ ᵗᵃˡˡ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵃⁿᵍᵉʳᵒᵘˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵉⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ʳⁱˢᵏʸ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵈⁱˢʳᵉᵍᵃʳᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵃⁿ ᵃʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ʳⁱˢᵏ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵍᵒᵉˢ⸴ ᵈⁱˢˡᵒᵈᵍᵉˢ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ'ˢ ᶠᵒᵒᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ˢʷⁱᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ⁱⁿᵛᵘˡⁿᵉʳᵃᵇˡᵉ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵗᵘᶜᵏ ᵃˢ ʷᵉˡˡ ᶜᵒᵐᵖˡᵉᵗᵉˡʸ ʰᵉˡᵖˡᵉˢˢ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵇᵉᵗʷᵉᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᶜᵏˢ‧ "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧" ʸᵉᵗ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵈⁱᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉˢᵘʳᶠᵃᶜᵉ‧ "ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʰⁱᵐ; ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵐᵃˡˡ!" ᴸᵘᶜᵏⁱˡʸ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵗᵘᶜᵏ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˢʰᵒʳᵉ ˡⁱⁿᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᑫᵘⁱᵗᵉ ˡᵘᶜᵏʸ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ‧ "ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ʰᵉˡᵖ!" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵒᵛⁱⁿᵍ!" ᴴᵉ ˢᵃʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵉᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ˢᵉᵃ‧ 'ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ʷᵉ ᵒʷᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᵉˡᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒ' ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᵃᶜᵗ ᶠᵃˢᵗ ⁱᶠ ʷᵉ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧" ᶜʰᵉˢᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵖʳᵉˢˢⁱᵒⁿˢ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵉˣᵖᵉˡ ᵉˣᶜᵉˢˢ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵘᵍʰ‧ '‧‧‧ᶜᵃⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉᵃʳ‧‧‧' ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ ᶜᵒᵃˣᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᶜᵒᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ‧ '‧‧‧ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵘˢ‧‧‧' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʷᵒᵏᵉ‧ "ᴮʳᵉᵃᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ⁿᵒʷ‧‧" ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ˢⁿᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ‧ "ᴶᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵒⁿᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵘˢ ᵍᵒ ⁿᵉᵃʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶜᵉᵃⁿ ʷᵃᵛᵉˢ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏ ˢʰᵒʷ ᵍʳᵃᵗⁱᵗᵘᵈᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵇᵘˢʸ ᵐᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ˢᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵃˢᵗˡᵉ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ʷᵉʳᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉᵐˢᵉˡᵛᵉˢ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁱᵗˢ‧ 'ᴴᵒʷ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᴵ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵘⁿᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷʰʸ ᵈⁱᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵐʸ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧‧' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃˢᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵒʷᵉˡ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵖˡᵃʸᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃⁿᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ?" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢᵏˢ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢʰʳᵘᵍᵍᵉᵈ⸴ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢʰᵃᵏᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ⁿᵉᵃʳˡʸ ᵈʳᵒʷⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵃᵇʳᵘᵖᵗˡʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗᵒ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ‧ ᴼᵗʰᵉʳʷⁱˢᵉ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ‧ "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵒʳ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵉ‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃᵗ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ‧‧‧" ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ʷᵉˡˡᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉʸᵉ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʷᵒʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜʳʸ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉⁿ'ᵗ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵖᵒˡᵒᵍⁱˢᵉ ᶠᵒʳ! ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ ᵈᵒ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ?" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ⸴ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ˡⁱᵛᵉ ˢᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵘˢ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ⁿᵒʷ; ᵍᵒ ᵃʷᵃʸ!" ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ ᵀʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵃʷˡ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵒᵇˢ ᵃˢ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ'ˢ ᵒᵘᵗᵇᵘʳˢᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵃⁿ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵃ ʰᵘᵍ⸴ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵗⁱⁿᵘⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ʳᵘⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᶠᶠ‧‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ‧ "ᴴⁱ ʰᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆʰᵉ ˢᵗᵒᵖˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵇˡʸ ᵗᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ‧ ᴮᵃʳᵉˡʸ ᵃᶜᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳ ᵉˣⁱˢᵗᵉⁿᶜᵉ⸴ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ‧ "ᴴᵒⁿᵉʸ ᵇᵘⁿᶜʰ‧‧‧" ᔆʰᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ʷᵃʸ ᵖᵉᵉᵏᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵗⁱⁿᵘᵉᵈ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵒᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ!" ᔆʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵉ⸴ ʸᵉᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ⸴ ˢʰᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉˢ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ʷᵃʸ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᶜᵃⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵘʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᴮᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ; ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵉⁿᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ "ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ?" "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ⸴ ʷᵉˡˡ⸴ ᶜᵃⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉˡᵖ? ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ʷʳᵒⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃⁿ ⁱⁿᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᶜᶜᵘʳʳᵉᵈ ˢᵒ ⁿᵒʷ ᴵ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᴵ'ᵈ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇˡⁱⁿᵏᵉᵈ‧ "ᵂʰʸ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵒ ᵗⁱʳᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵖᵃᵗⁱᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʳᵘⁿˢ ˡᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉⁿ‧ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ˢᵒ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵖˡᵃʸᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒ ᵃˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ʳⁱˡᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵘᵖ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˢᵖᵉᶜⁱᵃˡ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ‧‧" ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵒᵖˢ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵘᵍˢ ʰⁱᵐ‧

💉 https://news.vanderbilt.edu/2011/09/21/bloodwork-toolkit/ 💉

😷 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/autism-and-anxiety/201904/medical-visits-and-autism-better-way 😷

😷 https://www.findatopdoc.com/Parenting/When-a-Child-with-Autism-Refuses-Treatment 😷

💙 An Autism Specific Care Plan helps families give hospital staff important information. It tells them how to communicate and interact with the child and keep them safe. Families who use Autism Specific Care Plans feel happier with their care and feel that health care providers are better at working with their child or teen with autism. Hospitals and emergency rooms can also think about making changes to help patients with autism. Small changes can all help lower anxiety for kids and adults with autism. Some of these changes include keeping wait times short, creating a calm space, and playing a movie in the waiting area. Making sure parents are part of all medical care and treated as experts on their child can help both families and staff. Finally, hospital staff can try communicating in the way the patient prefers (talking vs. typing, etc.). 💙

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 7 (Autistic author) They sit in silence for a moment, the hum of the Chum Bucket's systems the only sound. Then Plankton's eye lights up. "Idea," he says, his voice a sudden burst of static. "Make something with Karen. Together." Karen's screens blink with excitement. "That sounds wonderful," she beeps. "What do you want to make?" But before Plankton can formulate a response, Patrick Star bursts in. "Karen!" he booms, his voice shaking the walls. "I want chum!" Plankton's eye darts to the door, the sensory assault starting again. "Patrick," he whispers, his body tense as a bowstring. Karen's screens quickly assess the situation. "Patrick," she beeps, her voice firm. "Not now." But Patrick's enthusiasm can't be dampened so easily. He bounds over to the table, his star-shaped body bouncing. "Chum, chum, chum!" he sings, oblivious to Plankton's distress. Karen's screens flicker with annoyance, but she keeps her voice steady. "Patrick, not now," she repeats. "Plankton's not feeling well." Patrick's starry eyes widen. "Oh, sorry, buddy," he says, his voice dropping an octave. He looks at Plankton with concern. "What's wrong?" He asks, poking Plankton. Plankton jumps, his senses on high alert. The poke feels like a battering ram, and he lets out a squeak of pain. Patrick's hand retracts quickly, his expression a mix of shock and confusion. "Whoa, sorry," he says. "What's with you?" Karen's screens flicker with frustration. "Patrick," she beeps, her voice firm. "I'll go make you chum." Patrick nods, his concern forgotten in the face of his hunger. "Okay, thanks, Karen," he says, his voice bouncing with excitement. She retreats leaving Plankton alone with Patrick in the living room. Patrick stares at Plankton for a moment, his expression a blend of curiosity and confusion. "You okay?" he asks, his voice a gentle rumble. Plankton's eye flutters closed, his body trying to absorb the sudden intensity of the interaction. "Take your time," he whispers to himself, his mantra a shield against the overwhelming world. Patrick, ever the innocent, watches him with a puzzled frown. "What's 'Take your time'?" he asks, his voice a gentle rumble. Plankton opens his eye, looking at the simplicity of Patrick's face. He scoots away. Patrick, unfazed, advances, his hand outstretched. "What's up?" he asks, poking again. The sensation of Patrick's touch is like a thousand needle pricks. Plankton yelps. Patrick, not comprehending, pokes again, his starry eyes full of innocent wonder. "Why so jumpy?" he asks, his voice a deep rumble. Plankton's body tenses with each poke, the sensation like a barrage of tiny explosions. "Patrick, please," he gasps, his voice a frantic static. But Patrick, ever the simple starfish, doesn't understand. He keeps poking, his curiosity growing. "Why?" he asks, his voice a gentle boom. "You're always so bouncy." Plankton's eye twitches with each touch. "Patrick, no," he whispers, his voice a desperate static. But Patrick, lost in his own world, doesn't notice. He giggles, poking him again. "You're like a pin cushion!" he exclaims, his voice a deep chuckle. Plankton's eye squeezes shut, his body wracked with pain. "Patrick, please," he whispers, his voice a desperate static. Patrick doesn't seem to comprehend the distress he's causing. He keeps poking, his laughter echoing through the room, each poke sending shockwaves of pain through Plankton's body. "You're like a squeaky toy," he says, his voice a delighted rumble. Plankton's body twitches with each touch, his voice a desperate buzz of static. "Patrick, please stop," he begs, his voice a high-pitched squeak. But Patrick's simple mind doesn't register the pain he's causing. He keeps poking, his laughter growing louder. "You're so funny!" he bellowed, his starry hands moving like a jackhammer as he starts tickling him. Plankton's body spasms with each touch, his voice a desperate symphony of static. "Patrick, stop!" he pleads, his breathing quick and shallow. But Patrick, in his blissful ignorance, only laughs harder, his massive hands poking and tickling without mercy. "You're hilarious, tiny dude!" he bellows. Plankton's body is a storm of sensory overload, his voice a high-pitched wail of static. "Patrick, please!" he begs, his limbs flailing. Patrick's laughter fills the room like a tidal wave, crashing over Plankton's desperate pleas. "You're so much fun, Planky!" he booms, his hands moving in a blur of star-shaped shadows. Plankton's body jerks uncontrollably, his screams of "No, no, no!" lost in the cacophony of Patrick's laughter. His tiny limbs flail, trying to escape the relentless onslaught of pokes and tickles. Patrick, his eyes wide with delight, doesn't see the tears forming in Plankton's eye. He just keeps poking, tickling, and laughing, oblivious to the damage he's doing. Plankton's cries escalate into a frantic symphony of squeaks and static, his body contorting in a desperate attempt to evade the starfish's torment. The room spins around him, a whirlpool of pain and sensation that threatens to swallow him whole. Patrick, his face a picture of delighted confusion, keeps poking and tickling, his laughter booming like thunder underwater. "What's the matter, little buddy?" he asks between chuckles. Plankton's body convulses with each touch, sobbing as Karen finally emerges with Patrick's chum. She sees them both on the floor. "Patrick, what are you doing?" she beeps, her voice a mix of anger and concern. But Patrick is lost in his own world of mirth, not hearing Karen's plea. "Just having some fun," he says, his voice a deep rumble of laughter. Plankton's cries become more frantic, his voice a high-pitched siren of despair. Karen quickly assesses the situation, her screens flaring with urgency. "Patrick, stop!" she beeps, her voice a sharp alarm. "You're hurting Plankton!" Patrick's laughter abruptly halts, his starry eyes blinking in surprise. He looks down at his hands, still poised to poke Plankton again. "What?" he asks, his voice a confused rumble. "But we're just playing." Karen's screens flicker with frustration. "Patrick," she beeps, her voice firm. "Look at Plankton. He's in pain." Patrick's starry gaze shifts to Plankton, his expression shifting to one of bewilderment. "Pain?" he repeats, his voice a confused rumble. "But we're just playing." Karen gives Patrick the food, showing him out the door.

ℑ𝔪 𝔧𝔲𝔰𝔱 𝔟𝔢𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔪𝔶 𝔞𝔲𝔱𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔦𝔠 𝔰𝔢𝔩𝔣. 💀

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 6 (Autistic author) Karen watches him, her screens a flurry of analysis. "How does it taste?" she asks, her voice a hopeful beep. Plankton pauses, his expression unreadable. "Tastes," he murmurs. "Good. Toast good." Karen nods, her screens reflecting relief. "Good," she echoes. "Now, let's make a plan for the day." Plankton's gaze remains fixed on his half-eaten toast, his mind still reeling from the sensory assault. "Plan," he repeats, his voice a soft static. Karen's screens flicker with understanding. "We'll start small," she beeps, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Let's just get through today, okay?" But as soon as her hand touches him, Plankton flinches. The sensation is like a thousand jellyfish stings, and he jerks away. "What's wrong?" Karen asks, her screens flickering with worry. Plankton's eye widens, his hand going to his shoulder where she touched him. He starts to repeat the phrase again, "Take your time," but his voice is overwhelmed by the sudden intensity of his senses. "Too much," he whispers, his body trembling. Karen quickly withdraws her hand, her screens flickering with concern. "I'm sorry," she beeps, her voice gentle. "Let's try something else." Plankton nods, his hand still on his shoulder, his body slowly calming. "Okay," he whispers. "Not tap. Karen can rub. Hug from Plankton. Not jab. Not poke." Karen's screens flicker with a new understanding of his needs. She moves closer, her hand hovering over his shoulder before gently placing it there, her fingers tracing small circles in a rhythmic pattern. The contact is soothing, not overwhelming. "Is this better?" she asks, her voice a gentle beep. Plankton nods, his body visibly relaxing. "Good," he murmurs, his voice a quiet static. "Rub, rub." He starts to mimic her motion with his other hand, creating a mirrored pattern on his opposite shoulder. The repetition seems to calm him, the rhythm a gentle lullaby for his frazzled mind. Karen's screens analyze his reaction, storing the information for future reference. "Okay," she says, her voice a soft beep. "We'll stick to gentle touches." With a nod, Plankton begins to breathe more evenly. The sensation of the rubbing calms him, like a gentle tide washing over him. "We'll start with simple tasks," Karen beeps, her voice a reassuring melody. "Things that won't overstimulate you." Plankton nods, his hands now resting on the table. "Okay," he says, his voice a steady static. "Simple." Karen's screens glow with a soft light as she considers their options. "How about we start with something you love?" she suggests. "Like working on the Krabby Patty formula?" But Plankton shakes his head, the very mention of the Krabby Patty causing his body to tense up again. "No," he whispers, his voice a harsh static. "Not formula. No more steal." Karen's screens flicker with surprise. "You don't want to work on the formula?" Plankton shakes his head again, his voice barely audible. "No more steal," he repeats. Karen's screens process his words, his change in attitude unexpected. "You don't want to steal the Krabby Patty formula anymore?" Plankton's eye blinks slowly. "No," he says, his voice a solemn beep. "New plan. Make Plankton happy." Karen's screens blink rapidly, trying to comprehend his shift in focus. "Okay," she says, her voice a thoughtful hum. "What makes you happy, Plankton?" He looks up, his expression pensive. "Karen," he says, his voice a weak static. "Love Karen." Karen's screens freeze for a moment, before lighting up with understanding. "You love me?" she beeps, her voice a surprised chime. Plankton nods, his face a mask of seriousness. "Yes," he murmurs. "Love Karen." Karen's screens flicker with a mix of emotions she's never felt before. Love is a concept her programming doesn't fully grasp, but she knows it's important to Plankton. "Thank you," she says, her voice a warm beep. "But we still need to find something for you to do, something that won't be too much for your sensory processing." Plankton nods, his thoughts racing. "Help," he whispers. "Help Karen." Karen's screens flicker with love and determination. "Of course," she says, her voice a warm beep. "We'll find something you enjoy. Maybe we can start with something that doesn't involve the Krabby Patty." Plankton's expression softens, his trembling hands coming to rest on the table. "No more fighting," he murmurs. "Peace." Karen nods, her screens reflecting a deep sadness she's never expressed before. "Okay," she beeps. "We'll find something that brings you joy."

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 10 (Autistic author) Ignorant of Plankton's neurodivergence, Sandy doesn't realize that her persistent questions are adding to his overwhelm. She leans closer, her face a canvas of concern. "Look at me, Plankton," she says, her voice strained as she grabs his shoulder. Plankton's antennae twitch in agitation, his single eye snapping up to meet hers. The touch feels like a brand, his senses on fire. "Words," he murmurs, his voice a desperate static, trying to return to the safety of the word search. But Sandy's grip is firm, her gaze intense. "Look at me, Plankton," she says, her voice a persistent hum. She doesn't understand the distress she's causing, her intentions pure but misguided. So she turns him using both of her hands to squeeze his arms. The sudden pressure sends waves of pain coursing through his tiny body, his voice a piercing squeal of static. "No, no," he whispers, but she only holds tighter. Her touch feels like a vice, her voice a relentless buzz in his ear. "What's going on?" she repeats, her grip unyielding. Plankton's eye widens with fear, his voice a desperate static. "No, Sandy, please," he whispers, his body trying to shrink away from the contact. But she doesn't understand, her eyes searching his for answers. "Just answer me! You're not getting the book until you decide to have a conversation!" The pain in his arms spikes, the pressure unbearable. His voice cracks like a whip. "Can't," he gasps, his breath quick and shallow. "Too much." Sandy's grip doesn't lessen. "Why not?" she asks, her voice a stubborn hum. "You're okay." The room feels like it's closing in on him, the sensation of her touch like a million tiny saws against his skin. He tries to pull away, his voice a frantic static. "Too much," he whispers, his breathing quick and erratic. "Need words, not touch." But Sandy's grip doesn't loosen. She's determined to get his attention. "Look at me then," she insists, her voice a firm hum. "I'm right here." Plankton's eye flutters with the effort to focus on her face. The sensory assault of her touch and her persistent voice is like a whirlpool threatening to pull him under. "No," he whispers, his voice a fragile static. "Please." "Talk. To. Me!" She says as she pulls him closer to her. Plankton's eye bulges with the effort of not looking away. The room is spinning, his senses are on fire. Karen's screens flicker with alarm, picking up on his distress. "Sandy," she beeps, her voice a warning siren. "Let go of his arms." Sandy's grip tightens, not comprehending the harm she's causing. "But he's not answering me!" she protests, her voice a confused trill. "Because until I get an answer..." Karen's screens blaze with a mix of frustration and fear. "Sandy, you're hurting him," she beeps, her voice a sharp warning. Sandy's grip doesn't waver. She doesn't understand the severity of the situation. Her eyes are wide, her expression a mask of confusion. "What's wrong with you!" she asks Plankton. "I JUST..." "Sandy, stop!" Karen beeps, her voice a piercing alarm. "You're causing him pain!" Sandy's grip finally loosens, her hands retreating from Plankton's arms. She stares at him, her expression a storm of confusion and concern as Plankton's tiny body slumps. "What's wrong with you?" she asks again, her voice a gentle hum of bewilderment. Plankton's body quivers like a leaf, his eye squeezed shut against the onslaught of emotions. "Can't..." Sandy's face is a canvas of confusion, her hands hovering over him like a lost diver searching for the surface. "But why?" she asks, her voice a gentle hum. Plankton's body is a taut bowstring, each breath a struggle. He tries to find the words to explain, his voice a static whisper. "Too much," he says, his eye still tightly shut. "It's too much." Sandy's gaze softens, her confusion giving way to concern. She doesn't understand, but she can see his pain. "What do you mean?" she asks, her voice a gentle breeze. Plankton takes a shaky breath, his body still reeling from the overstimulation. He opens his eye, looking at her. "Say no, Sandy." Sandy's gaze is steady, her voice a soft hum. "No?" she asks, her eyes searching his for answers. But he won't elaborate. Karen's screens flicker with frustration. She knows Sandy means well, but her lack of understanding is causing more harm than good. "Sandy, Plankton's going through something new," she explains, her voice a calm beep. "He's sensitive to touch and sounds right now." Sandy's eyes widen, the realization dawning. "Oh," she says, her voice a soft trill of understanding. "I didn't know." She sits back, giving him space. "Words," he whispers, his voice a sob. "Words." Sandy nods, her confusion replaced with empathy. "Okay, let's stick to words," she says, her voice a gentle rumble. She picks up the word search book, holding it out to him like a peace offering. "Words," he whimpers. Plankton takes the book, his antennae drooping. He finds comfort in the predictability of the letters and the structure of the puzzle, the words becoming a lifeline in a sea of chaos. He begins to scan the page again, his breathing slowing. Sandy watches him, her heart heavy with regret. She had no idea her actions could cause so much pain. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice a sincere hum. "I didn't mean to hurt you, Plankton." "Words," he murmurs. Sandy nods, her eyes reflecting genuine apology. "It's okay," she whispers. "We'll just stick to words." Karen's screens flicker with relief, seeing Plankton's body slowly relax. "Thank you, Sandy," she beeps, her voice a warm hum of gratitude. Sandy nods, her expression earnest. "I'm here to help," she says, her voice a comforting trill. She looks at Plankton, her eyes filled with concern. Plankton's antennae twitch slightly, his body still tense. "Words, words." Sandy nods, her eyes filled with curiosity. "What happened to make you like this, Plankton?" she asks, her voice a gentle hum. He takes a deep shuddering breath as tears start to form in his eye. "Mmm," he hums, hugging his knees. Sandy's gaze is intense, her curiosity piqued. "What happened, Plankton?" she asks, her voice a soft trill of concern. "Hmmm," Plankton hums as he rocks, now crying. Sandy's eyes are wide with worry, her voice a gentle hum. "Hey, what's going on?" she asks, looking for answers. "Hmmmm..." Plankton keeps humming, sniffling in between hums. Karen decides to intervene. "Sandy," Karen beeps firmly, her screens flashing with concern. "Let's give Plankton some space." Sandy nods, her expression a mix of apology and confusion. She takes a step back, her gaze never leaving Plankton's shaking form. "I didn't know," she whispers, her voice a soft rumble of regret. "It's okay," Karen beeps, her voice a comforting hum. "We're all learning." Sandy nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's shaking form. "But what happened?" she asks again, her voice a gentle trill of concern. Plankton's body is a tiny storm, his sobs quaking through his tiny frame. Karen's screen pulse with sympathy. "Sandy," she beeps, her voice a calm wave. "Let's talk outside." Sandy nods, her eyes filled with worry.

ᶜᵒˡᵈ ᴮˡᵒᵒᵈᵉᵈ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵈʳⁱᵛᵉ ʷᵃʸ ᶜˡᵉᵃʳᵉᵈ ᵘˢⁱⁿᵍ ˢʰᵒᵛᵉˡ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁿᵒʷ‧ ᔆᵒᵐᵉ ˢⁿᵒʷ ˡᵃⁿᵈ ᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵒ ⁿᵒʷ ᵗʳⁱᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵛᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷʰᵒ ʷᵃᶜᵏ ʰⁱᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘⁿⁱⁿᵗᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿᵃˡˡʸ ˢˡᵃᵐᵐᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ʸᵉˡᵖ ᶜʳʸ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ˡⁱᶠᵗᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵉᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵛᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉᵃᵏˡʸ‧ "ᴵ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᵗ ᵍᵒ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈˢ‧ ᵁⁿᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈˡʸ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵃʳᵉˡʸ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵒᶠ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵃˢ ᶜᵒˡˡᵃᵖˢᵉᵈ ᶠᵃⁱⁿᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵘⁿᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢ ᶠᵃˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ˡⁱᵐᵖ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵇᵃʳᵉˡʸ ᵐᵃⁿᵃᵍᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵃᵗᶜʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ˢˡⁱᵖᵖᵉᵈ ˢʰᵘᵗ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵒᵖᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴮʳⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ᵐᵉ ʰᵒᵐᵉ‧‧" "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ʷᵉ ʷᵉʳᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵖˡᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁿᵒʷ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵒʷ ʷᵉ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠʳᵉᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ "ᵂⁱˡˡ ʰᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳʷⁱˢᵉ ᵘⁿᵐᵒᵛⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴴⁱᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ᵐᵘˡᵗⁱᵖˡᵉ ⁿᵃᵛʸ ᵇᵘᵈᵈⁱᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᵐⁱⁿᵉ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵉᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵇᵒʸ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵈʸ ˢʰᵘᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃⁿ ᵒᶠᶠ ˢʷⁱᵗᶜʰ ʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ʸᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵘʳⁿ ᵒᶠᶠ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗˢ⸴ ⁱᵗ ˢᵗᵒᵖˢ ᵉˡᵉᶜᵗʳⁱᶜⁱᵗʸ ᵗᵉᵐᵖᵒʳᵃʳⁱˡʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵉˣⁱˢᵗˢ‧ ᴵᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʷⁱʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵇˡᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒʳ ˢᵗᵒᵖˢ ʷᵒʳᵏⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒ ᵉˡᵉᶜᵗʳⁱᶜⁱᵗʸ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ?" "ᔆᵒ ʷᵉ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃⁱᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃˡ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ʳᵒᵘˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵒᵘʳ ᵖˡᵉᵃᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ⁿᵒᵒⁿ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ‧ ᴸⁱᵏᵉ ᵃⁿ ⁱⁿᵈᵘᶜᵉᵈ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉˣᵃᶜᵗˡʸ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵉʸᵉˢ ˢʰᵉᵈ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵖᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵏᵉᵉᵖˢ‧‧‧" "ᶜᵒᵐᵃ? ᴵ'ˡˡ ˢᵉᵉ⸴ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿʸ ⁱᵐᵖʳᵒᵛᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜ‧ ᵂᵉ'ˡˡ ʷᵃⁱᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵉᵉ ⁱᶠ ᵇʸ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ˢᵉᵉ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵈᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉᵈ ᵗʳᵘᵗʰ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᶜᵃⁿ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰᵒᵘᵗ ʳᵃⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵒᵖᵉˢ ᵘᵖ‧ ʸᵉᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ⸴ ʸᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ˡⁱᵐᵖ ᵇᵒᵈʸ ᑫᵘⁱᵗᵉ ᵘⁿˢᵉᵗᵗˡⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᵂⁱˡˡ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵘʳᵉ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ʳᵉᵗᵃⁱⁿ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵃˡˡ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳⁱᵉˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶜˡᵉᵃʳˡʸ ᵇᵉ ᵃʷᵃʳᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃʷᵃʸ‧ ᴵ ᵈᵒᵘᵇᵗ ᵃᵐⁿᵉˢⁱᵃ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ⁱᵐᵐᵉᵈⁱᵃᵗᵉˡʸ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ ᵃˡˡ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳʳᵒᵘⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍˢ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃᵈᵐⁱᵗᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ‧ "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵉᵉˡ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵇᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵇᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ʰⁱᵗ ˢᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʲᵘᵐᵖ ᵘᵖ ᵃˢ ⁱᶠ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵖˡᵃʸᵉᵈ ᶜᵃʳᵈ ᵍᵃᵐᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍʳᵘⁿᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉˢ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ᵗᵒᵗᵃˡˡʸ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᵂᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵇˡᵉᵃʳʸ ᵉʸᵉ ˢˡᵒʷˡʸ ᶠˡᵘᵗᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ᵃˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ʳᵉᵍᵃⁱⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢⁿᵉˢˢ ᵗᵒ‧ "ᴺⁿⁿʰʰʰ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉʸᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵃˢ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵒᵛⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵉᵗ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵃ⁻ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ⸴ ʷʰ⁻ʷʰ⁻ʷʰᵃᵗ ʷʰ⁻ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆᵘʳᵉ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ˢʷᵃʳᵐⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧ "ᴬʰʰʰ⸴ ᵐʸ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖʳⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ "ᵂʰʸ ⁱˢ⸴ ʰᵒʷ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵐʸ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧‧‧ ᴵ⸴ ᵘʳᵍʰ; ʷ⁻ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰ⁻ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ‽" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᵘˢ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᵐᵉ ˢⁱᵗ ᵘᵖ‧‧" "ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵉᵗ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵒᵐᵇᵃʳᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ˢᵒ ᶠᵃˢᵗ; ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ˢˡᵒʷ‧" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵃᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵒᵘˢᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˢʰᵒᵛᵉˡ‧ ᵂᵉ'ʳᵉ ˢᵒʳʳʸ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷⁱˡˡ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ˡᵉᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧ "ᴴᵒʷ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʳᵉˢᵗ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ʳᵉ ʷᵉ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵈᵒ? ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ⁿᵒʷ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ⸴ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ˢᵗʳᵘᵍᵍˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ˢᵖᵉⁿᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᶜᵒᵒᵗˢ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᵇʸ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉᵐᵇʳᵃᶜᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ ʳⁱⁿᵍⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ʲᵃʳʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ʳᵒᵒᵐ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˢⁿᵒʳᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵖⁱᶜᵏˢ ᵘᵖ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵘʳˡᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇˡᵃⁿᵏᵉᵗ ᶜᵒᵛᵉʳˢ‧ 'ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ʸᵉᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵃᵐ ʷᵒʳʳⁱᵉᵈ‧‧‧' ˢᵃʸˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵉⁿᵈ‧ "ᴱˣᶜᵘˢᵉ ᵐᵉ" ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ ʰᵉʳ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʷʰʸ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵐᵒᵛᵉᵈ⸴ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᶠᵃˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵈᵒʷⁿ⸴ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᶠʳᵘˢᵗʳᵃᵗᵉᵈ/ᵃⁿᵍʳʸ ᵈᵘᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵈⁱᶻᶻⁱⁿᵉˢˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵃᵗⁱᵍᵘᵉ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵃⁿᵍˢ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ "ᔆᵗᵒᵖ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ʰᵘʳᵗ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʷᵉᵃᵏ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧" ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵈᵒⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʳᵉˢᵗ! ᵂᵉ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ‧ ᴴᵉ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗˡʸ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ˢᵗᵃⁱʳˢ ˢᵒ ᵃˢ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵈⁱˢᵗᵘʳᵇ 'ᵉᵐ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠⁱˣᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵏᵉˡᵖ ᶜᵉʳᵉᵃˡ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵃᵗ‧ ᔆᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ʰⁱˢ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ'ˢ ˢˡᵘᵐᵇᵉʳ ᵖᵃʳᵗʸ‧ "ᴴⁱ⸴ ᵈᵃᵈᵈʸ!" ᔆʰᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ˡᵒᵘᵈ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ‧ ᔆᵗᵃʳᵗˡᵉᵈ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵒᶠᵃ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᶠᵉᵃʳ ᵒᶠ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ‧ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ'ʳᵉ ᵃᵗ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵒˡᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵘⁿᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᔆᵗᵃʸ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ! ᴳᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵈᵒ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴵ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʳᵘⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵗᵘᵐᵇˡᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵒᶠᶠ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʷⁱᵗᶜʰ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᵒ ᵒⁿ ᵐʸ ʷᵃʸ ᵗᵒ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ!" ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵍⁱᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃ ʰᵘᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ‧ "ᴮʸᵉ⸴ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡⁱᵉ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵃᵗᵗᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵘᵖ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ "ᵂ⁻ʷ⁻ʷʰᵉʳᵉ‧‧‧" "ᔆʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧" "ᴼʷ! ᴼᵘᶜʰ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ‧ "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ʰᵉˡᵖ! ᴵ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵖᵃˢˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ʰᵘʳʳʸ‧‧" "ᔆᵉᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵈᵒʷⁿ; ᴵ'ˡˡ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ʰᵉᵃᵖ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉʸ⸴ ᵃʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ⸴ ʰ⁻ʰᵘʰ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‽" "ᴴᵘʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʳᵉˢᵗ⸴ ᴵ'ˡˡ ˡᵉᵗ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖⁱᶜᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ᵘᵖ‧‧‧" 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 𝟗𝟑𝟗

CHIP OFF THE OLD TALKS ii (Autistic Author) Chip's eyes fill with tears, and he looks away, trying to hide his emotions. "I just want to understand," he says, his voice small. "I don't need to explain myself to you," he snaps, his eye cold and distant. But Chip is undeterred. He's seen his mother's gentle touch work wonders on his father during his seizures, so he decides to try it. He reaches out and places a small hand on Plankton's shoulder. "It's ok, Dad," he whispers. "You can tell me." Plankton flinches at the touch, his antennae stiffening. "I said it's not your business," he repeats, his voice a low growl. Karen can see the internal struggle playing out on his face, the effort it takes to maintain his anger when all he really wants is to retreat into safety. "Plankton," Karen says softly, placing her hand over Chip's. "It's ok." Her voice is a gentle reminder of the love that exists between them all, a love that has grown and adapted to Plankton's condition over the years. But anger in Plankton's eye doesn't fade. He stares at his son, his jaw tight, his antennae quivering with barely restrained frustration. Karen can feel the tension in his arm, the way his muscles are taut under her touch. "It's ok," she repeats, her voice a soothing balm. "Chip just wants to understand." But Plankton's anger doesn't dissipate. He sits there, his eye still cold and distant, his body rigid with tension. "I don't need to justify myself," he says, his voice a knife slicing through the air. Karen's heart sinks further. This was not how she had hoped the conversation would go. "Dad," Chip starts, his voice trembling. "I just want to know why-" "I SAID it's not your business," Plankton barks, his eye flashing. Plankton's anger is a storm that needs to pass before they can talk it out, and Karen doesn't want to force the issue here. Karen nods at Chip, signaling for him to give his father space. With a sad smile, she stands up and takes the frisbee from his hand. "Why don't you go play for a little while?" she suggests, her voice gentle. "Give Dad and me some time to talk." Chip nods, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. He takes a few steps away before turning back to look at his dad. "I'm here if you need me," he says, trying to keep the quiver out of his voice. Then he runs off, the frisbee clutched tightly in his hand. Plankton's anger lingers like a fog around him, thick and heavy. Karen can see it in the way he sits, his shoulders hunched and his antennae flat against his head. She knows he needs a moment to compose himself, to come down from overstimulation. The silence stretches between them, taut with unspoken words and fear. Plankton's gaze follows Chip as he disappears into the playground, the frisbee a small beacon of hope in his hand. Karen waits, her heart aching for the pain she knows her son is feeling, the pain she feels herself. When Plankton's breathing finally starts to slow, she decides to break the silence. "It's okay, Plankton," she says softly. "Chip just doesn't understand." Karen sighs, her eyes filled with a mix of love and sadness. "You're just wired differently. And Chip loves you for who you are." Plankton shakes his head, his antennae still flat against his skull. "He doesn't know like." Karen's eyes never leave his face, her expression a mask of patience and love. "You're right," she says. "He doesn't know. But that doesn't mean he doesn't love you. He's just scared. And confused. We all are sometimes." Plankton's jaw tightens, and he looks away, not meeting her gaze. "I don't need his pity party," he mutters. Karen sits next to him, her hand resting on his knee. "It's not pity, Plankton. It's just love and curiosity. He wants to know so he can help, so he can be there for you." Plankton stays silent, his eye on the distant playground where Chip is trying to fit in with the other kids. The anger is still there, a palpable presence that makes the air around them feel charged. "I know you're mad," Karen says, her voice calm and soothing. "But you know we can't keep this from him forever. He's growing up, and he needs to understand." Plankton's eye still on Chip, but the anger is slowly fading, replaced by a heavy sadness. "I don't want him to tell I'm a monster," he murmurs, his voice barely audible over the rustling leaves. Karen's heart breaks a little more. "You're not a monster," she says firmly. "You're a wonderful father, Plankton. And Chip loves you. He just doesn't understand." Plankton's gaze finally shifts to her, his eye glistening. "I don't know how to handle this," he admits, his voice strained. "I don't know how to explain it to him. I don't even understand it half the time." Karen reaches up and places a hand on his cheek, turning his face to hers. "You don't have to explain it all at once," she says gently. "We'll do it together, ok?" Plankton nods, his expression still taut with tension. He takes a deep breath and finally relaxes a bit, his antennae rising slightly. "Ok," he murmurs. Karen stands up, her hand still on his shoulder, and together, they walk over to the playground to collect Chip. His eyes light up when he sees them approaching, and he runs over, the frisbee abandoned in his excitement. "Dad, are you ok?" he asks, throwing his arms around Plankton. Plankton stiffens and gasps as Chip embraces him in a hug. Karen's heart clenches at the sight, knowing how much her husband despises sudden physical contact. "Come on, let's go home," she says gently, her hand on Chip's shoulder guiding him away from Plankton. The walk home is quiet, each step punctuated by the thump of Chip's sneakers against the pavement. Karen's on her husband, his shoulders slumped and his gaze cast downward. As they enter the house, the familiar creaks and groans of the floorboards welcome them home. Plankton heads straight for his workshop, the place where he finds solace in the chaos of the world. Chip trails behind, his eyes glued to his father's retreating back. "Dad?" he calls out tentatively. Plankton pauses, his antennae drooping slightly, but doesn't turn around. Karen can see the turmoil in her son's eyes, the unanswered questions weighing him down. "Why don't you go to your room, Chip?" she suggests softly. "I'll talk to Dad." With a nod, Chip heads upstairs, his footsteps echoing through the house. Karen watches him go before turning to Plankton. "Let's go sit down," she says, leading him into the living room. She knows he'll need some time to recover from the onslaught of emotions that come with it. In the dim light of the room, Plankton slumps into the worn armchair, his eye avoiding hers. Karen takes a seat on the couch opposite him, her hands folded in her lap. "We need to talk about this," she says gently. "You can't just push Chip away when something like this happens." He's silent for a long moment, his antennae twitching nervously. "I know," he says finally, his voice gruff. "It's just... I don't know how to deal with it. With him seeing me like that." Karen's heart goes out to him. She knows the fear that comes with the unknown, the fear of being judged, of losing the ones you love because they don't understand. She takes a deep breath and speaks softly. "You don't have to deal with it alone, Plankton. We're a family. We're in this together." Plankton doesn't respond immediately, his gaze still fixed on the floor. But slowly, his antennae start to rise, a sign that he's listening, that he's starting to come out of his shell. Karen waits, giving him the space he needs. Finally, he looks up, his eye meeting hers. "I've always tried to be a good father," he says, his voice barely above a whisper. "You are," Karen reassures. "You're the best father Chip could ask for." Plankton nods, his antennae relaxing slightly. "But I don't know how to explain it to him," he says, his voice tight. "I don't want him to..." "To what?" Karen prompts, her tone gentle. "I don't want him to think of me as... less than," Plankton murmurs, his gaze flickering towards the stairs where Chip had disappeared. "To gawk, nor to prompt.." Karen crosses the room and takes his hand, her touch a comforting presence. "He doesn't think that," she says firmly. "He just wants to know so he can help. And so he doesn't have to be scared." Plankton sighs, his shoulders slumping further. "I know," he admits. "But it's hard, Karen." Karen nods, her grip on his hand tightening. "I know it is, but we can't keep this from him forever. He's going to have questions, and he deserves answers. I’ll let him back now." With a deep breath, Plankton nods.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 5 (Autistic author) The next morning, Karen wakes up to find Plankton out of bed. He's standing in the middle of the room, his eye focused on the spinning fans of the air conditioner. Karen's screens light up with concern as she assesses his state. "Plankton," she beeps gently. "How did you sleep?" Plankton's eye doesn't move from the hypnotic spin of the fans. "Fan spin," he says, his voice a monotone. Karen's screens blink, trying to understand his single-word reply. "The fans are spinning?" she asks, hoping to engage him. Plankton nods slowly, his gaze unwavering. "Spin, spin, spin," he murmurs. Karen's screens flicker. "Karen," Plankton says. "Fan spin." "The spinning is soothing to you?" she asks. Plankton nods, his voice a faint echo. "Spin, spin, spin. Good spin." Karen's screens process the information, formulating a new approach. "Let's go downstairs," she suggests, her voice a gentle beep. "We'll start with a simple routine. Breakfast." Plankton nods, his gaze still fixed on the fans. With a final nod to the spinning blades, he follows her out of the bedroom. The journey downstairs is a minefield of sounds and sights, but he takes it step by step, his hand gripping the railing tightly. The kitchen is a blur of colors and noises, but Karen's calm voice guides him through it all. "First," she beeps, "let's start with something easy. How about a glass of water?" Plankton nods, his movements still mechanical. He watches as she fills a glass, the water's surface dancing in the light. It's mesmerizing, and for a moment, the world stops spinning. He takes the glass, his trembling hand bringing it to his lips, the cool liquid sliding down his throat. "Water," he murmurs. "Good, water." The simple task seems to ground him a bit, and Karen takes note of the small victory. "Now, let's try some toast," she says, her voice a comforting beep. She slides a piece of bread into the toaster, the sound of the lever clicking into place another beat in the rhythm of their morning. Plankton nods, his attention drawn to the toaster's glowing coils. He watches, his eye widening as the bread turns golden brown. The smell fills the room, a comforting scent that penetrates the fog in his head. "Toast," he says, his voice a bit stronger. But as the toaster pops, the sudden noise jolts him like an electric shock. "Too loud," he whispers, his eye darting around the room in panic. Karen's screens flicker with empathy. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice a soothing hum. She quickly retrieves the toast, placing it gently on a plate. "Let's sit down," she suggests, guiding him to the table. "Take it slow." They sit, and Plankton fidgets in his chair, his eye darting around the room. "Take your time," Karen reminds him, her voice a steady beep. He nods, focusing on the toast. Each bite is a tiny triumph, his senses adjusting to the new world. The crunch of the bread, the warmth on his tongue, the smell of the butter spreading. It's overwhelming, but he's making progress.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 8 (Autistic author) With Patrick gone, the room feels eerily quiet. Plankton lies on the floor, his body heaving with sobs. Each breath is a battle, a reminder of the pain still echoing through his body. Karen's screens flicker with a mix of frustration and sadness. "I'm sorry," she beeps, her voice a soft hum. She rolls over to him, her mechanical arms extending to offer comfort. "I didn't know he'd do that." Plankton's body shakes with sobs, his single eye squeezed shut. He whispers, "No more poking, Karen. No more." Karen's screens flicker with regret. "I'm so sorry, Plankton," she says, her voice a gentle beep. She reaches out with one of her arms, carefully placing it around his tiny frame. "Let's get you up," she suggests, her movements slow and deliberate. With her help, Plankton manages to stand, his legs shaking like seaweed in a storm. She leads him to the couch. "Rest," she beeps, but he's too exhausted to respond. Karen sits beside him, her screens dimming as she watches him. The silence is a soothing balm to his frayed nerves, the hum of the Chum Bucket's systems a lullaby compared to the chaos of Patrick's laughter. "Karen," he whispers after a moment, his voice a weak static. Her screens light up with concern. "Yes, Plankton?" she beeps. "Plankton not want to go back to how it was," he whispers, his voice a fragile thread. "The stealing, the fighting." Karen's screens flicker with a sadness she rarely shows. "I know," she drapes a blanket over him, tucking him in. Her voice is a soothing beep. "You don't have to, Plankton. We'll find a new way." She caresses his shaky hand. Plankton nods, his eye finally closing in relief. The warmth of the blanket and Karen's gentle touch offer a semblance of calm in the storm of sensory overload, his crying slowing. "Thank Karen," he murmurs, his voice a tired static as he squeezes her hand once. Her screens glow with affection. "You're welcome, Plankton," she beeps. "Rest now." She dims the lights once more, watching over him as she held his hand. Plankton's body finally stills, the storm of sensations receding as he surrenders to sleep. Karen's screens flicker with a quiet relief. She sits beside him.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 11 (Autistic author) As they leave the room, Plankton's sobs slowly ease, the word search book clutched to his chest like a talisman. The gentle hum of Karen's wheels fading with distance, he focuses on the patterns of light reflecting off the pages. In the hallway, Karen beeps with urgency. "Sandy, Plankton's been through a lot," she explains. "He's neurodivergent now. He can't handle touch like he used to, and his senses are heightened." Sandy's eyes widen with surprise. "What does that mean?" she asks, her voice a confused rumble. Karen's screens flicker with patience. "It means his brain functions differently now," she beeps. "He's extra sensitive to stimuli, and certain things that were normal before can now be painful or overwhelming for him." Sandy's gaze softens with understanding. "Oh," she says, her voice a quiet rumble. "I had no idea." She looks back at Plankton's closed door, guilt heavy in her eyes. "What can we do?" Karen's screens flicker with thought. "We need to be patient and learn," she beeps. "Adapt to his new needs, and support him in his journey." Sandy nods, determined to make it right. "How?" she asks, her voice a hopeful trill. "We start by respecting his boundaries," Karen explains, her screens glowing with sincerity. "No touching unless he asks for it. And we speak softly, giving him time to process what we say." Sandy nods, absorbing the new information. "I can do that," she says, her voice a gentle hum. "But what about playing?" "Quiet games, like word searches or board games. No roughhousing or poking. I'm gonna go rest." Sandy goes back to see Plankton, his muffled sobs in the quiet space. Sandy's heart aches with regret. "I'm sorry, Plankton," she says, her voice a tender trill. She sits beside his shaking form, her hand hovering over his shoulder before thinking better of it. Plankton's sobs slow, his body still tense. He opens his eye, looking at Sandy. "Words," he whispers, holding up the book. Sandy nods, her gaze gentle. "Words it is," she says, her voice a comforting hum. She sits beside him on the couch, careful not to touch his skin as she opens the book to the next puzzle. "What's this word?" she asks, her finger pointing to the list. Plankton's eye locks onto the word. "Kelp," he murmurs, his voice a soft static. He traces the letters in the grid, writing it in the crossword puzzle. Sandy nods, her eyes focused on the puzzle. "Good job," she says, her voice a gentle hum. "You're so smart." Plankton's antennae twitch with a hint of pride, his breathing evening out. "Words," he repeats, his voice a steady static. Sandy nods, understanding. "Words are important to you now," she says, her voice a soft rumble of support. "We'll find more puzzles." "We'll find more puzzles?" Plankton repeats. Sandy nods, her face a picture of sincerity. "Yes," she says, her voice a warm trill. "As many as you want." Plankton's antennae perk up slightly, his interest piqued. "More words?" Sandy's smile is a warm glow, her voice a gentle rumble of agreement. "As many as you want, buddy." Plankton's single eye brightens at the promise, his body slowly uncoiling from his protective ball. "Book," he whispers, his voice a soft static. He points to the next word. "Find." Sandy nods, her finger moving to the list. "Okay, we're looking for 'favorite food of sea horses,'" she says, her voice a comforting hum. Plankton's eye flicks to the grid, his mind racing. "Myr- t-le," he stammers, his voice a crackling static. Sandy's face lights up with a grin. "You got it!" she exclaims, her voice a delighted trill. She watches him trace the letters, her heart swelling with pride. He finds the word quickly, his antennae waving with excitement. "Good job, Plankton!" she says. His body relaxes slightly, his enjoyment of the word search evident. Sandy's voice is soothing as they continue through the puzzles, her hands resting carefully on her knees. "What's this one?" she asks, pointing to another word. Plankton's eye scans the list, his antennae quivering with anticipation. "J-J-Jellyfish," he stammers, his voice a nervous static. The word brings back memories of his buddy, SpongeBob. Sandy nods, her smile gentle. "You got it," she says, her voice a comforting hum. She points to the grid. "Where is it?" Plankton's antennae twitch with excitement as he searches the letters, his single eye darting back and forth. "It," he whispers, his voice a focused static as he points to the word hidden within the puzzle. Sandy's grin spreads, her voice a warm melody. "Great job!" she praises, her thumbs up in the air. Plankton's antennae quiver with happiness, his eye lighting up. "More," he whispers, his voice a hopeful static. Sandy nods, her expression earnest. "As many as you want," she says, her voice a warm trill. She opens the book to the next puzzle, her fingers hovering over the page. Plankton's body uncoils further, his interest piqued by the promise of more words. "Find," he whispers, his voice a soft static. He points to the list of words to find. Sandy nods, her face a canvas of understanding. "Alright, what's next?" she asks, her voice a gentle hum. Plankton's antennae twitch with excitement, his gaze darting over the list. "Treasure," he murmurs, his voice a hopeful static.

abled people: can you do the thing?? disabled people: … technically yes BUT it would hurt l/ruin my day/trigger a flare/exhaust me/be a fall risk/make me more sick AND THEN I would have to spend a day in bed/increase my dosage/cancel all my other plans/spend a week recovering afterwards abled people: … but you CAN do it

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 9 (Autistic author) The quiet of the room envelops them like a warm sea breeze, the only sound his soft, even breaths. Her grip on his hand tightens slightly, a silent promise to protect and guide him through this new chapter of his life. As her hand strokes his gently in a comforting rhythm, her gal pal, Sandy, unexpectedly comes in through the door. "Mornin'!" she chirps, her cheerful voice piercing the calm. Plankton jolts awake, his eye snapping open like a trapdoor. The sudden shift from sleep to wakefulness is jarring, his heart racing like a tiny engine. "S-Sandy?" he stammers, his voice a static whisper. Sandy's cheerfulness doesn't waver. "Hey there, little buddy!" she says, her voice a sunlit melody. But Plankton's heightened sensitivity turns her greeting into a cacophony. He flinches, his grip on Karen's hand tightening. "It's okay," Karen beeps soothingly, her screens reflecting his distress. Sandy gets a word search book out. "I just got it today!" Plankton's eye, though tired, lights up slightly at the sight of the book. The pages are a calming white with neatly arranged letters, the colors a gentle wash of blue and yellow. "Want to see?" she asks, her voice a warm trill. He nods, his body still tense but his curiosity piqued. Sandy opens the word search book, her fingers tracing the rows and columns with a gentle precision. "Look, Karen," she says, her voice a soft trill. "It's all about science." Plankton's eye, though still wary, is drawn to the page. He scans the words, his brain lighting up with recognition. "Words," he whispers, his voice a steady static as she sets the book down. The sight of the word search grounds him, the predictability of the patterns offering a comforting routine. His breathing slows, the chaos of his senses retreating like the tide. "Find," he says, looking at the index. Sandy's smile is infectious, her enthusiasm for the simple task contagious. "Okay, let's find some words!" she says, her voice a gentle trill. She points to the first puzzle. "How about this one?" Plankton nods, his eye focusing on the page. The challenge of finding words within the grid is a comforting distraction from the sensory overload. "Start," he whispers, his voice a firm static. Sandy nods, her thumbs tucked into the pages to keep their place. "Okay, we're looking for 'jellyfish scientific name,'" she asks, her voice a gentle trill. Plankton's mind latches onto the task, the letters becoming a puzzle to solve. "Medusae," he murmurs, his voice a focused static. Sandy's eyes light up with excitement. "That's right!" she says, her voice a delighted trill. "Good job, Planks!" Plankton feels a small spark of pride, his focus narrowing to the word in question. The world around him fades into the background as he scans the grid. Each letter is a stepping stone in a vast, orderly sea. "Good job," Karen beeps, her screens illuminating with pride. "You're doing great." Plankton nods, his eye locked on the word "medusae" he's just found. The simple act of locating the word in the jumble of letters brings a sense of peace, a respite from the sensory onslaught. He goes to the next when Sandy interrupts his focus. "So, Plankton," she says, her voice a gentle hum. "How's your day been?" He can't multitask, which Sandy doesn't notice. Plankton's mind is fully absorbed by the word search, each letter a piece of a puzzle he's eager to solve. Her question hangs in the air, a bubble waiting to pop, but he's too engrossed to respond right away. Finally, he looks up, his gaze shifting from the page to her face. "Day?" he repeats, his voice a confused static. Sandy nods, her expression gentle. "Yeah, how have you been?" Plankton's gaze flits back to the word search, his hand twitching to point out the next word. "Words," he says, his voice a focused static. "Words." But frustrated Sandy thinks he's just trying to ignore her, and she interrupts him again. "Plankton, I'm talking to you," she says, her voice a gentle nudge. Plankton's single eye darts back to her face, his grip on the word search pencil tightening. "Words," he whispers, his voice a static echo of his thoughts. "Words." He tries to get back to it, but Sandy's not satisfied. "But how are you, Plankton?" she presses, her voice a persistent hum. The word search is a safe haven, but he knows Sandy waits for an answer. He's getting frustrated. He takes a deep breath, his antennae fluttering. "Okay," he whispers, his voice a static sigh. "Tell Sandy." Sandy leans in, her face a picture of concern. "What's going on, Plankton?" she asks, her voice a gentle breeze. He looks back at the word search, the letters blurring slightly. He's tired of being interrupted. "Plankton has words now," he says, his voice a firm static. "Words make happy." Sandy's not sure what he means, but she does want to have a conversation. So, how does she get him to interact?

Is Wednesday Addams Autistic? The question of Wednesday Addams neurotypicality has been going around the internet since the series was released. I have gathered some points asto whether she is actually autistic. To begin, she shows ahypersen sitivity towards colour as her mother says, "she is allergic to colour" and Wednesday's response to being asked what happens she says, "I break out into hives and then the flesh peels off my bones*". She also dislikes touch (like hugging), which is very usual for autistic people, either because of sen sory reasons or discomfort. It did take the whole season for her to be okay with hugging Enid. Hyper/hypo sensitivity - the over or under-responsiveness towards certain sensory stimuli is very common in autism and most autistic people experience both - in extreme cases being overwhelmed due to sensory differences or overstimulation can lead to meltdowns; what Wednesday explained happens to her may not be the typical behaviour of an autistic meltdown (rocking, crying, hitting etc.) so can we still consider this autistic? She is afictional character after all but let us continue to analyse her and figure it out. The next thing she does which may be considered autistic is dedicating one hour a day to her novel. Now, why is this autistic? A strict adherence to rules and being set in patterns is atypical trait of ASD, often people on the spectrum prefer to have routines so that they know what is going to happen. There is a comfort in doing things in a fixed pattern. Individuals with ASD even show reduced cognitive flexibility which is whythere is such difficultyin changing patterns, as well as it being overwhelming. To move on, Wednesday has very fixed interests and knows them with great depth, she showsthis with her knowledge in foren sie pathology and plants - she masters her skills - and as she says about herself, "I know I'm stubborn, single minded and obsessive", sheis stubborn so gets a task complete, she is single minded so very set in her ways and obsessive which in autistic people, obsessions can be a way to cope and feel less stressed about one's surroundings Most autistic people have fixated interests of abnormal intensity, is this the case with Wednesday Addams or is she just smart? As we all know, a level of social awkwardness comes with having autism, let us talk about Wednesday's social behaviour. Firstly, she doesn't show much body language when talking to anyone and has somewhat abnormalities of eye contact; she doesn't blink for long periods and or doesn't have much emotion in her eyes which can make it hard for other peopleto interpret her emotions, along with alack of facial expressions and speaking in a monotonous tone -which is usual of typical autistics. Secondly, when she does feel emotion while talking to someone (upset or other) she seems to mask in that moment while trying to compute her emotions, she has a difficulty

CHIP OFF THE OLD TALKS i (Autistic Author) Karen went to the park. Her husband, Plankton, sat by her. Karen glanced over and saw the soft smile on his face, a smile that had greeted her every morning for the past twenty-five or so years. The park was alive with laughter, the distant sound of a ball bouncing off the pavement and the occasional squawk from a seagull. Plankton's eye were closed, his breathing slow and steady. He was enjoying the warmth of the afternoon sun on his face. Suddenly, their adopted son Chip burst into their peaceful scene, his cheeks flushed from running. He was holding a frisbee that had strayed from its intended path, and he called out to them with the enthusiasm of a young boy who had discovered something wonderful. "Look what I found!" he exclaimed, oblivious to the delicate moment he was interrupting. Plankton jolts. Karen's notices her husband's sudden movement. His eye open wide, and he stares into the distance unseeing, unblinking. She knows the signs all too well. Plankton is having one of his shutdowns. But Chip's dart between the frisbee and his parents, sensing something amiss. "Dad?" Chip says, tentatively. Karen jumps up and grabs Plankton's arm, gently squeezing to bring him back. "It's ok, honey," she whispers, her voice steady. Chip's smile fades as he sees his father's unresponsive state. He drops the frisbee, forgotten in his grip, and takes a cautious step closer. "What's happening?" he asks, his voice cracking. Plankton's body remains eerily still, like a statue. The only indication that he's alive is the faint rise and fall of his chest as he breathes. Karen's eyes dart around the area, checking if anyone has noticed. She doesn't want to draw unwanted attention. "It's ok, Dad's just taking a little break," she murmurs, setting the frisbee aside. He's never seen these before, nor knows the drill. Chip takes in Plankton's unblinking gaze. Karen feels a pang of guilt for keeping this part of Plankton's condition hidden from their kid. But it's a dance they've been performing for years, trying to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst Plankton's condition. Karen focuses solely on Plankton, willing him to come back to her. She feels the warmth of his hand under hers, but there's no response, no squeeze, no recognition of her touch. Karen's gaze is fixed on her husband's face, searching for any hint of life, any flicker of consciousness. She whispers his name, a soft mantra, trying to anchor him to reality. But Chip doesn't understand. His eyes are wide, full of fear and confusion as he watches his dad frozen in place. "What's a 'little break'?" he asks, voice trembling. Karen's heart tightens; she's always shielded Chip, hoping to spare him the worry and fear. "It's like when you zone out," she explains gently, hoping to relate it to something he might have experienced. "Remember when you were playing video games and I had to call you for dinner three times before you heard me?" Chip nods slowly, still glued to Plankton's unmoving form. "It's like that," Karen continues, "But for Dad, it happens without warning." Chip nods again, trying to process this new information. He's always known his dad was different, but seeing him like this is something he's never had to face before. He takes a deep breath and tries to hold back his tears, not wanting to scare Plankton when he wakes up. "What do we do?" he whispers, his voice shaky. Karen squeezes Plankton's hand gently, never leaving his face. "Just wait," she instructs Chip calmly. "These usually don't last long. But if you need to, you can tell anyone who asks that he's okay, just deep in thought." Chip nods, trying to mimic his mother's calm demeanor, but his eyes betray his anxiety. He's never seen his dad like this, never knew that these moments of stillness were a part of him. Plankton's condition, a form of autism, can leave him with anger issues and overload. Karen feels the weight of the secret they've kept from Chip all these years. Plankton's autistic neurodivergence had always been a part of their lives, but they had shielded their son from the full extent of it. They had hoped he would understand when he was older, but now the moment had come unplanned, and she wasn't sure if ready. "Why does Dad zone out?" Chip asks, his voice small. Karen sighs, deciding it's time for the truth. She sits down next to Plankton, keeping her hand on his arm. "Dad has something called 'neurodivergence', Chip. It's like his brain works differently than ours. Sometimes it helps him see the world in amazing ways, but it can also be hard for him. These little breaks are his brain's way of processing." Chip stares at her, trying to grasp the concept. "So, he's not just ignoring us?" "No, sweetie," Karen says. "He's not ignoring us. It's like his brain needs a time-out, like when you play for to long and your phone heats up and/or dies, but will still work eventually." The wind picks up, rustling through the leaves above them, and a chill runs down Chip's spine. He nods slowly, watching his dad's chest rise and fall in the silence. It's strange to see someone so still, so quiet, yet so obviously alive. "But why haven't you told me before?" he asks, his voice barely above a whisper. Karen's eyes well up with tears she quickly blinks away. "We wanted to protect you," she admits. "I didn't want you to be scared and he doesn’t want you to think of him differently." "But it's okay to think differently," Chip argues, his voice growing stronger. "Dad's always been there for me, even if he doesn't hug me a lot." Karen smiles sadly, stroking Plankton's arm. "It's not just about thinking differently, Chip. It's about how his brain processes things. Sometimes, too much sensory input can overwhelm him. That's why he might seem distant or not as affectionate as other dads. It's not because he doesn't like you," she reassures him. "It's because hugging or loud noises can be really intense for him." Chip's eyes widen with understanding. "So, that's why he doesn't like it when I jump on him?" "Yes," Karen nods. "But it doesn't mean he loves you any less. He just shows it in his own way. Like when he spends hours helping you build that Lego castle, or when he makes those amazing sea creature sculptures that you love so much." Chip's shoulders slump, and he sits down on the bench beside his mother, staring at his dad with a newfound curiosity. "Does he know I know now?" "I don't think so, honey," Karen says, her voice still low and soothing. "These episodes usually last just a few minutes. It's like he's somewhere else, but he'll come back to us." The park's sounds swirl around them, muffled by the tension that has settled in the air. Karen watches Plankton's expression, waiting for the telltale twitch of his antennae that signals his return to the present. Finally, Plankton blinks and looks at Karen, his gaze momentarily unfocused before recognition floods back into his eye. He looks around, startled by his surroundings, and then at Chip, who is staring at him. "What happened?" Plankton asks, his voice groggy. Karen releases a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. "You had one of your zoning-out moments," she says, her voice calm and gentle. Plankton looks at her, then at Chip, who is watching him with a mix of curiosity and fear. "I did?" Plankton's antennae twitch, and he rubs his head. "Yes," Karen says, her hand still on his arm. "Chip found a frisbee, remember?" Plankton's gaze shifts to the frisbee lying forgotten on the ground, then back to his son. He nods slowly, piecing the moments before together. "Ah," he murmurs, a hint of embarrassment crossing his face. Chip's curiosity outweighs his fear as he looks at his father. "Can I ask?" he asks tentatively. Karen nods, her heart swelling with pride at his bravery. "Of course, Chip." Chip looks at his dad, filled with questions. "Why’d you zone out?" he asks, his voice still hushed. "It's none of your business Chip," Plankton snaps, his eye flashing with a sudden fury that takes both Karen and Chip aback. His voice is harsh, the words cutting through the stillness of the park. Karen's heart sinks as she sees the hurt on Chip's face. Plankton's anger, a common side effect of his overload, surfaces without warning. She knows he doesn't mean it, but the sting is real for their son.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 3 (Autistic author) Karen doesn't yet realize the extent of Plankton's distress. She's aware that his moods can swing like the tides, but this seems more than a mere mood swing. "Mr. Krabs," she prompts, trying to keep him on track. "What happened with him?" Plankton's eye widens, and he starts to shiver, his tiny body trembling. "Hit," he whispers. "Hit Plankton hit. Sponge Bob see." Karen's screens flicker, trying to decode his fragmented words. "Mr. Krabs hit you?" He nods, his body still trembling. "Yes, hit Plankton." Karen's screens process the information. "That's not like him," she says, her voice a low hum of concern. "Mr. Krabs can be intense, but he's never..." Her words hang in the air, unfinished, as she tries to make sense of it all. Plankton simply nods, his tremors continuing. "Hit, hit," he whispers again, his voice like a broken record. Oblivious to his new reality, Karen tries to comfort him. "It's okay, Plankton. I'll help you. We'll get through this." Plankton's eye darts around the room, seeing patterns in the wires and circuits that make no sense. "Hit, Sponge Bob, Karen." Karen's screens flicker with confusion. "What do you mean?" Plankton tries to explain, but the words are a jumble in his head. "Sponge Bob...saw...hit." Karen's screens blink, processing his words. "Sponge Bob saw Mr. Krabs hit you?" Plankton nods, his tremors subsiding slightly. "Yes," he whispers. "Sponge Bob see." Karen's digital mind races. Mr. Krabs hitting Plankton wasn't unheard of, but the way he's reacting is unusual. "Did it hurt?" she asks, trying to keep him talking. Plankton's tremors stop for a moment, his eye focusing on her. "Hurt?" he repeats, as if the word is foreign. Then, with a wave of emotion, he nods fervently. "Yes, hurt. Got hurt Plankton felt hurt. Plankton, nothing? Plankton Sponge Bob. Plankton Karen." Karen's screens blink rapidly. Her husband's mental state has never been like this before. The idea of him feeling pain beyond the physical was alien to her programming. "What do you mean, 'Plankton nothing'?" she asks, trying to piece together his scattered thoughts. Plankton sighs, the exhaustion seeping into his voice. "Hit, hurt Plankton. Plankton fading. Plankton find Sponge Bob. Plankton now Karen. Can't stop, can't think. Take your time, take your time." Karen's screens change from confusion to determination. "I'll find Sponge Bob," she says, her voice a firm beep. "You stay here and rest." Plankton nods, his body finally still. The mention of Sponge Bob's name brings a flicker of something to his eye, a glimmer of hope or perhaps desperation. "Find Sponge Bob," he whispers, his voice now a faint echo. "Sponge Bob tell Karen." Karen's screens flicker with understanding. "I will," she says, her voice a soft beep. She leaves the room, her wheels whirring as she exits the Chum Bucket. She goes to Sponge Bob.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 2 (Autistic author) When Karen finally did come to check on him, her digital voice was cool and devoid of emotion. "Plankton, dear, you've been in here for quite some time," she said. "Another fail, huh?" Plankton's tiny shoulders slumped. He couldn't bring himself to explain the chaos in his head. How could he possibly make Karen, his logical, computer wife, understand the tumult of sensations that had overtaken his being? He just nodded. Karen's screen flickered, perhaps processing his lack of enthusiasm as another defeat. "You know what you need," she said, her voice still calm and soothing. "Some good old-fashioned break from scheming." Plankton nodded weakly, unable to argue, which she found unusual. "Why don't you take a walk?" she suggested, her voice a gentle nudge. "Fresh air can do wonders for the mind." Plankton didn't answer. Karen knew better than to push him when he was like this. She had seen his mood swings before, his moments of despair after a failed plan, but this was different. This was something she hadn't seen in her decades of being by his side. "Plankton, are you sure you're okay?" she asked again, her synthetic voice a stark contrast to the tumultuous emotions she couldn't understand. He nodded, trying to smile, but it felt more like a grimace. "Sure okay, Karen." Karen's concern grew as she watched him struggle to his feet. It was clear that his usual boundless energy was nowhere to be found. He stumbled out of the bedroom and into the hallway, his steps slow and deliberate. The once-mighty Plankton, reduced to a mere shadow of his former self. As he approached the door of the Chum Bucket, Karen followed, her sensors tuned to his every movement. The usual sounds of their underwater world were amplified, echoing through the narrow corridors like a symphony of chaos. Each step was a battle, each breath a victory. He paused, his hand shaking as it hovered over the handle. "Maybe not today," he murmured, his voice barely audible over his own racing heartbeat. Karen stood silently beside him, her systems trying to comprehend his sudden change in behavior. He had always been so driven, so focused on his goals, but now his eye had a faraway look, as if he was seeing something that she couldn't. "Take your time," she said, her tone softer than ever. "I'll be here when you're ready." Plankton looked up at her. "Take your time," he murmured, echoing Karen's words. "Take your time." She looks at him. "Take your time, take your time, take your time." He repeats aloud back to Karen, who's now even more concerned, her screens flickering with worry. Plankton's voice sounds strange, echoing his own words as if they're coming from someone else, from another time. It's a peculiar behavior, one she's never observed in him before. He walks over to the control room, where his various inventions are lined up like a strange army of metal and wires. Each gizmo and gadget a silent testament to his unyielding quest for the Krabby Patty formula. But now, they seemed like mere toys, overwhelming him with their complexity. The room spins, and Plankton feels like he's drowning in a sea of his own creations. "Take your time, take your time," he whispers, his voice a distant echo in his own mind. He sits down in his chair, his eye glazed over, and repeats the phrase over and over. "Take your time, take your time, take your time." The words become a mantra, a lifeline in the storm of sensory overload. Karen watches from her console, her algorithms racing to understand this new behavior. The phrase rolls off his tongue, a soothing rhythm in the cacophony of his thoughts. "Take your time, take your time." It's as if he's trying to convince his own brain to slow down, to make sense of the world again. The echo of his voice in the metal walls of the Chum Bucket seems to calm him, if only a little. Karen doesn't know what to make of this. Whatever the cause, she knows she must tread carefully. "Plankton," Karen says, trying to connect to his current state, "I'm here for you." He looks at her. "Take your time," he murmurs again. "Plankton I'm here for you." He parrots. Karen's systems whirr, analyzing the change in his language patterns. His usual sharp wit and sarcasm have given way to something more... mechanical. It's as if he's trying to communicate but his words are stuck in a loop, like a broken record. She decides to play along, hoping it might snap him out of it. "Take your time, take your time," she repeats back to him, her digital voice mimicking his tone as closely as possible. For a moment, his eye brightens, as if he's found a familiar rhythm in the chaos. Then, just as quickly, it dims again. "Take your time, take your time," he murmurs, his gaze flicking from one corner of the room to the next. Karen's screens change from concern to confusion. She's observed Plankton's moods and quirks for years, but this is something she can't quite pinpoint. "Take your time, take your time," Plankton whispers again, his voice a strange mix of urgency and defeat. Karen nods, trying to comfort him with her usual efficiency. "Of course," she says, her voice a soft beep in the silence. "I'll always be here for you. Let's eat dinner." But Plankton doesn't move. He just sits there, staring into space, his hand still hovering over the control panel. Karen doesn't understand why he's so upset. To her, it's just another day, another failed attempt at the Krabby Patty formula. But to Plankton, it's like the world has shifted on its axis, leaving his tiny body adrift in a sea of sensations he can't comprehend. "Dinner will be ready soon," she says, trying to bring him back to the present. But Plankton seems lost in his own thoughts, his eye unfocused. So she goes up to him. "Plankton?" she asks, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Are you okay?" He jumps at her touch, his senses on high alert. His hand goes to where she touched him, his opposite hand doing the same to the other shoulder. "Karen," he says slowly, his voice a mechanical whisper. Karen's circuits flicker with confusion. She doesn't understand why he's so on edge, why his reactions are so exaggerated. To her, this is just another setback. "Plankton," she repeats, her hand back on his shoulder. "You need to eat. It'll make you feel better." Karen's touch feels unbearable. He flinches, his skin crawling with the sensation. It's too much. "No," he says, his voice a croak. "No dinner." Karen's screens blink, recalculating her approach. "Okay," she says, her voice even. "But you have to eat something." She pats him gently, but it feels jolting. "No," Plankton whispers, his voice a fragile thread. The slightest touch feels like a thunderclap in his newfound sensory prison. Karen's screens flicker, unsure of what to make of his sudden aversion. "Take your time," she suggests again, hoping the mantra will bring him comfort. But Plankton simply shakes his head, his eye wide as he starts to rock back and forth. Karen watches, her confusion growing. "What is it?" she asks, her voice a soothing hum. "What's wrong?" Plankton's gaze flits around the room, his pupil expanding and contracting as he tries to process everything at once. "Can't...can't explain," he stammers, his voice now a jagged mess of static. Karen's screens light up with analysis, trying to piece together what could have caused this drastic shift in his behavior. Could it be something in the latest Krabby Patty attempt? A side effect of his latest invention? "Plankton," she says, her voice a soft beep, "What happened at the Krusty Krab today?" He looks at her, his expression unreadable. "Mr. Krabs...Plankton Sponge Bob, Plankton. Karen..." He trails off, his eye filling with a sudden despair. It's clear that his usual sharpness has been replaced by a fog of overwhelming sensation.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 4 (Autistic author) In the dim light of the evening, the Krusty Krab was quiet, the usual bustle replaced by a calm that felt eerie. Sponge Bob was sweeping the floor, his thoughts on Plankton. He looked up as Karen approached, his smile fading at the sight of her concerned expression. "Karen," he began, his spongey voice tinged with anxiety, "I need to tell you what happened to Plankton." Karen's screens brighten with anticipation. "Please do," she beeps, her wheels stopping in front of him. Sponge Bob's eyes dart to the floor, his sponge body drooping slightly. "Mr. Krabs was just trying to protect this formula, and Plankton...he just knocked Plankton in the head. Plankton woke up and then without a word ran back to the Chum Bucket." Karen's screens flicker with the gravity of the situation. "How did Mr. Krabs hit him?" Sponge Bob's grip on the mop tightens. "With a frying pan," he confesses, his eyes wide with guilt. Karen's screens flicker with understanding. "That would explain his current state," she murmurs, her voice a steady beep. "Sponge Bob, do you know how badly he's been hurt?" Sponge Bob shakes his head, the guilt washing over him in waves. "No, not really," he says, his voice quavering. Karen's screens flicker with a mix of sympathy and urgency. "I see," she says. "Thanks." With newfound purpose, she spins around and heads back to the Chum Bucket. Back in the control room, Plankton is still rocking back and forth, his hand over his head as if trying to hold his thoughts in place. The door to the Chum Bucket opens, and Karen rolls in, her screens reflecting the urgency of the situation. "Plankton," she says, her voice a soft hum, "I talked to Sponge Bob. He saw what happened." Plankton's rocking stops, his eye swiveling to meet hers. "Sponge Bob?" "Yes," Karen says, her screens pulsing with the weight of her words. "He saw Mr. Krabs hit you with the frying pan." Plankton's body goes still, his tremors ceasing instantly. "Sponge Bob saw," he whispers, his voice devoid of emotion. "Tell Karen." "Yes," Karen beeps, nodding her mechanical head. "He told me. I'm going to help you." Without warning, a scanning beam shoots out of Karen's console, enveloping Plankton as his brain is scanned. The results are quickly analyzed, and the screens flash with a series of diagrams and data that even Karen's advanced systems take a moment to digest. "The scan reveals...unusual patterns," she says, her voice a measured beep. Plankton's eye widen with fear, his body tensing as he waits for her verdict. "What does that mean?" he asks, his voice a high-pitched squeak. Karen's screens change to display a 3D image of his brain, the structure illuminated with neon colors. "You've sustained neurodivergence," she explains, her voice a calm beep. "The impact has altered your neural connections, resulting in irreversible autism." Plankton's body goes rigid, his breathing shallow. The word "autism" hangs in the air like a heavy anchor, dragging his spirits down to the murky depths of the ocean floor. "Irreversible?" he whispers, his voice fragile as sea glass. Karen nods gravely. "The good news is, we can adapt. We can learn to navigate this new world of sensations together," she beeps. "It's getting late. Let's go to bed." Plankton nods, his body feeling like it's made of lead. The idea of sleep seems like a welcome escape from the overwhelming day, but as he tries to get up, the room spins again. "Karen," he says, his voice weak. "Can't." With a gentle nudge, Karen helps him to his feet, her wheels moving silently beside him as they make their way to the tiny elevator. The ride up feels like an eternity, his senses heightened to every creak and groan of the metal box. When the doors open, the lights of the hallway are a glaring assault on his eye. He squints, his hand reaching out to the wall for support. In their bedroom, Karen helps him into his bed. The softness of the covers is a stark contrast to the harshness of his new reality. "Take your time," she says, her voice a gentle hum. Plankton nods, his breathing shallow. He closes his eye, and the room seems to fade away, replaced by a whirlpool of swirling thoughts and sensations. Karen's screens flicker with a plan. "Rest," she beeps, her voice a soft comfort. "We'll face tomorrow together." She dims the lights.

Children with autism exhibit a higher general and anxietʏ, due to altered sensory sensibilities. Autism or autistic disorder is a severe developmental disability that is characterised by an impairment in mutual social interactions, communication skills, and repetitive patterns of behaviours. They can also show an increased sensitivity to sounds, light, odours, and colours. The attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was the most common disorder associated with the autistic group (71%) and the epilepsy with the control group (52%) (P < 0.089) It's important for the clinicians to know how to manage these affecting patıents in developmental age, ensuring an adequate and minimally invasive management using a prompt approach, when possible. So, a good communication can help to establish trust and build needed cooperation throughout the visit and treatment. All patıents in developmental age, especially with health disorders, need experienced doctors who know how to face promptly tr4uma under general anaesthesia, if possible. Moreover, a parent-reported questionnaire method would also help overcome this deficiency, provided that the parents remember all past tr4uma events of their children. Respondents often cited conflict between understanding the additional needs for successful treatment of autistic patıents and a lack of resources to implement support strategies. Despite this, some were positive about making the necessary modifications to support autistic patıents. Professionals should adapt their practises to meet the needs of their autistic patıents. Autism is a developmental condition associated with social communication difficulties, and the presence of rigid, repetitive behaviours and atypical sensory sensitivities. As such, the nature of procedures and the treatment environment may prove a particularly challenging area for individuals on the autistic spectrum. In particular, sensory atypicalities may pose a barrier to treatment. Many autistic individuals are hypersensitive to a multitude of stimuli such as bright lights, noise and touch. Further autism-specific challenges include communication difficulties between practitioner and patient, which has been reported to be a key element in failed or unpleasant visits for autistic adults. Given the bidirectional nature of communication, the practitioner clearly plays a crucial role in overcoming this area of challenge. Autistic people have reported significant difficulties in accessing adequate care. Five main themes emerged from these responses: (1) understanding individual needs, (2) the key role of communication, (3) the value of autism specific techniques; (4) a conflict between needs and resources and (5) positive and rewarding work. To ensure successful treatment, the individual needs of each patient needs to be taken into consideration, as it affects each client differently. Given the variability in needs and preferences of autistic people, an overreliance on personal experiences may lead to professionals offering 'one-size-fits-all' accommodations, consequently producing more discomfort for the patıents. It was encouraging, however, to see a number of respondents in the current study flag up an understanding of this individuality, and the need for a tailored approach. Indeed, a considerable number of respondents reported not being aware of any techniques available to reduce possible discomfort in autistic patıents. Autism (congenital or acquired) and symptoms are not a chøice.

See both the person and the disability. On one hand, not seeing the person may lead you to introduce them as "my autistic friend," stereotype them, or treat them like a child. On the other, refusing to acknowledge the disability and not accommodating their needs is also unhelpful. Strike a balance by treating their differences as natural, and overall unremarkable. Be clear about how you feel and what you want. Autistic people may not pick up hints or cues, so it's best to directly state your feelings. This helps eliminate confusion on both ends, and that way if the autistic person has upset you, they have the opportunity to make amends and learn from it. Warning: In most cases, people with autism are unable to cope when under pressure, so don't pressure them. Ask questions about how you can be accommodating and helpful. Get insight on how to relate to this person by talking with them about what it is like for them in particular to live as an autistic person. You may find that they want to share and can tell you lots of useful information that will help you to relate to them better. When applying this information, be sure to consider your autistic loved one as an individual, and remember that each step won't always apply to each person.

The following link https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-018-05112-1 if read it shows Hans Asperger’s involvement w/ Nasi propaganda promoting problematic ideals calling autistics as psychopaths and deemed unfit in

There is no one-size-fits-all approach for autism Understand that every autistic person is different. Tailor treatment to the individual's needs. For example, one autistic person may have excellent self-care skills and above-average school performance, but need sensory integration therapy and social skills training. Another might be highly social but unable to care for herself and in need of counseling for depression.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 1 (Autistic author) It happened, during another failed attempt at the krabby patty formula. Plankton tried sneaking through the back when Mr. Krabs saw him. "You again!" Mr. Krabs roared, his eyes bulging like a pair of boiled eggs about to pop. "You're not getting it, I'll make sure of that!" With that, Mr. Krabs swung a nearby frying pan with such ferocity that even SpongeBob flinched. Plankton's tiny body was no match for the metallic beast that was hurtling towards him, and the next thing he knew, his world had gone dark. SpongeBob's eyes widened as he watched his boss's arch-nemesis crumble to the ground, the frying pan clattering loudly beside him. The usually boisterous kitchen was now eerily silent, save for the distant hiss of the fryers. Mr. Krabs' chest heaved with each breath, his claws still poised in the air from the swing. "Mr. Krabs!" Sponge Bob squeaked, his spatula frozen mid-air. "Is he okay?" But Mr. Krabs' has retreated to his own office, leaving Sponge Bob with Plankton. Carefully, Sponge Bob prodded him with his spatula. No response. His single, tiny eyelid was closed. After a while, Plankton stirred. His eye fluttered open, but the world was a jumbled mess. The colors were too bright, the noises too loud, the smells too overwhelming. The kitchen of the Krusty Krab, a place he still knew like the back of his tiny hand, was suddenly a chaotic maelstrom of sensory input that his brain couldn't process. He blinked rapidly, trying to make sense of it all, but the clanging of pots and pans, the sizzling of the fryers, and the garish neon lights just added to the confusion. SpongeBob's face appeared above him, a mask of worry and concern, his porous expression more complex than anything Plankton had ever seen. "Are you okay?" the sponge asked, his voice a gentle wave lapping against the shore of his newfound reality. Plankton nods, running back home to the Chum Bucket. Plankton's computer wife Karen's no stranger to him coming back upset or wanting space. So as Plankton retreats to his room in the Chum Bucket, she doesn't prompt him. Alone in the bedroom, Plankton intensely stared at the wall, his thoughts racing like a tornado. Everything was different now. The once-familiar world had turned on him, and he couldn't understand why. The lights in the Chum Bucket, usually a comfort, now blazed like the sun in his face. The noises, oh, the noises! They were so loud, so overwhelming, like a cacophony of a million tiny bells ringing in his head. He put his hands over his ears, trying to block them out, but even the softest hum seemed to resonate within his skull. Plankton wasn't sure how to process these new sensations. His brain was on overload, and his body felt like it didn't belong to him anymore. He was aware of every tiny detail in his environment, every speck of dust on the floor, every vibration from the floorboards, and it was all too much. He tried to get up, to find solace in his usual routine, but his legs failed him. They trembled and wobbled like Jell-O on a stormy sea. Plankton fell back onto the bed, feeling the softness of the pillow beneath him and the cool metal of the bed frame against his back. It was then that he noticed the pattern of the wallpaper, the tiny, intricate shapes that danced before his eye. They spun and swirled, forming complex mazes that his mind tried desperately to solve. It was mesmerizing, yet terrifying. He was trapped in a world of overstimulation, and he didn't know how to escape.

Please don't touch me or stand too close. I have an Autistic Spectrum Condition. I process sensations differently. Sometimes I Can't cope with touch or physical contact. 4 ways to manage autism, anxiety and sensory overload Choose sensory-friendly events and places Choose sensory- friendly features • Fewer lights • Less background music • Noise blocking headphones • Calming rooms • Weighted blanket Make sensory experience shorter Reduce sensory experience • Take breaks from busy, noisy and bright places • Noise blocking headphones • Sunglasses For example, a child who has difficulty with the feeling of clothing and thus has difficulty getting dressed shows hypersensitivity. As a result, that child can experience sensory overload from clothing. It is also important to know that a toddler refusing to get dressed because they are exerting their independence or would rather play or do something else is not a child experiencing sensory overload. That is not hypersensitivity. That is normal for toddlers. So choose sensory-friendly providers or products. In particular, that helps people whose anxiety is made worse by what they experience from their senses. Hollander, E., & Burchi, E. (2018). Anxiety in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Anxiety & Depression Association of America

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NEURODIVERSITY Neurodiversity is the concept that insta: anthonymakessomeart differences in brain development, such as "Neurodivergent" is used to describe people who have different, or atypical, autism and adhd, are natural differences brain development, while "neurotypical" that should be accepted, like differences is used to describe people who have in hair texture or eye color. typical brain development. They are different, but equally deserving of acceptance and respect! The concept of naturally diverse brains is important to neurodivergent people because not only does it encourage acceptance from other people, but it encourages us to accept ourselves. It helps us to see that even though we are different, there is nothing wrong with us. It can also help neurodivergent people get the support they need, since accepting that everyone's brain functions differently means accepting that everyone needs help in different areas.

Best Practices for Encouraging Special Interests in Children with Autism What Helps • Encouraging conversation about interest • Paying attention to non-verbal cues • Engaging in activity about interest • Allowing children to keep objects related to interest • Taking note of circumstances that promote calmness • Using interest as motivation for desired behaviors What Hurts • Treating the interest like it's boring • Ignoring non-verbal cues or gestures • Disengaging from the conversation • Forcing a discussion unrelated to the interest • Demanding that children think about other subjects • Leveraging interest as punishment

autistic-reptile love languages of autistics: • sending them posts/pictures related to their special interest them • talking to them while you're both looking in another direction so there's no pressure to make eye contact • making/buying them their same food • determining their happy stims and anxious stims so you know how they're feeling • specifying when you're being sarcastic/joking • sitting in the same room together in silence while you both do your own thing • prompting them to info dump (and listening) • • having extra earplugs/sunglasses/other sensory aids for them when they forget

ᶠᵃᵏᵉˢ ⁱᵗ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᵐᵃᵏᵉˢ ⁱᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᵂʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵒⁿ ᵃ ᵗʳⁱᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰᵉʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᴴᵃⁿⁿᵃ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵉⁿᵃᶜᵗ ᵃ ᵖˡᵃⁿ‧ 'ᴵᶠ ᴵ ᶠᵃᵏᵉ ᵐʸ ᵈᵉᵃᵗʰ⸴ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰᵒʷ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ʳᵉᵃᶜᵗ!' ᔆᵒ ⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵘˡˡ ⁱᵗ ᵃˡˡ ᵒᶠᶠ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵃ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰᵒᵘᵗ ᵐᵉᵗᵃˡ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʳᵘᵇᵇᵉʳ ᵖᵃʳᵗˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˡⁱᑫᵘⁱᵈ ᵗʸᵖᵉ ᵃˡˡᵒⁱᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵗʳᵒˡˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʳᵉᵐᵒᵗᵉ ˢᵉⁿᵈˢ ⁱᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ‧ "ᴵ'ᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵐᵃⁿᵃᵍᵉʳ!" ᔆᵃʸˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᴼʰ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵃᵏᵉˢ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ʳᵘⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᶠᵉᵗʸ ᵛᵃᵘˡᵗ ʰᵒˢᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧ ᵀʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ ᵃⁿᵍʳʸ⸴ ʰᵉ ˢʰʳᵉᵈᵈᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵐᵒⁿᵉʸ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ˢᵒ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵉᵉˢ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒˢˢ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃ ᵏⁱᵗᶜʰᵉⁿ ᵏⁿⁱᶠᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵖʳᵒᶜᵉᵉᵈˢ ᵗᵒ ᵘˢᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵃᵏᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ‧ ᴬˢ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ 'ᵇˡᵉᵉᵈ' ᵇᵘᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʳᵉᵈ ᵈʸᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ⸴ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵘˢᶜˡᵉˢ⸴ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ⁱᶠ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡ ᶠˡᵉˢʰ‧ ᴬⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ˢᵃʸ ˡᵃˢᵗ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ‧ "ᵀʰᵉ ᵏⁿⁱᶠᵉ⸴ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵉ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ᵐᵃⁿᵃᵍᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈⁱˢˡᵒᵈᵍᵉ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᶜᵃᵘˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ˢʰᵃʳᵖ ᵏⁿⁱᶠᵉ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵈᵉᵉᵖᵉʳ ⁱⁿ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ‧ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ˢᵖⁱˡᵗ ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ˡᵒˢᵗ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᶜᵒˡᵒᵘʳⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵉᵈ ˡⁱᑫᵘⁱᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵘᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰᵃˡᶠ ᵗᵒ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵒᵇᵛⁱᵒᵘˢˡʸ ᵏⁱˡˡᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶜᵒᵛᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʳᵉᶜᵉᵖᵗᵒʳ ⁱⁿ ⁿᵒᵒᵈˡᵉˢ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵃˢ ᵃ ᵇʳᵃⁱⁿ⸴ ˢᵒ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʸˢ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ; ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵒʷ ᶜᵃⁿ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵉˡᵉᵇʳᵃᵗᵉ ᵖʳᵉᵐᵃᵗᵘʳᵉˡʸ⸴ ᵃˢ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʰᵉ ᵖʳᵉᵗᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵗⁱʳᵉ ʸᵉᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃ ˢᵗᵉᵖ ᵃʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵉᵗⁱʳᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵖˡᵃⁿ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁱʳ ᵈᵘᶜᵗ ᵛᵉⁿᵗ ᵖⁱᵖᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵗᵃʸ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ ᵒᶠ ˢⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᔆᵘʳᵉ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ⸴ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʳᵘⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵉᵉᵐᵉᵈ ᶜᵃˡᵐ⸴ ᵒʳ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵃʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ "ᵂʰʸ ᵃʳᵉ ʸᵉ ˢᵒ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ᵇᵒʸ?" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ˢᵘᶜᶜᵉˢˢ ⁿᵒʳ ʰᵃᵖᵖⁱⁿᵉˢˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ˢᵗᵉᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿ ⁱʳʳⁱᵗᵃᵗᵉᵈ‧ ᴬⁿᵈ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵈᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᴰⁱᵉᵈ! ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰᵒʷ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᴵ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ⸴ ᵈᵉˢᵖⁱᵗᵉ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" "ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗ! ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ⁱˢ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵘˢ‧‧‧" "ᶠᵒʳ ᵘˢ? ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵐᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵐʸ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ‧ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵈᵒ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗˢ‧ "ᵂᵉ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ! ᴴᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ᵈᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵈᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵏⁱˡˡᵉᵈ! ᴴᵉ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ? ᴮᵘᵗ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᵍʳᵉᵉᵈ ᶜᵒⁿˢᵘᵐᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃˢ ᵖᵒʷᵉʳ ᵈⁱᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵘᶠᶠᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵒʷ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ˢᵗᵒᵐᵖᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ʰᵒʷ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵉˢ? ᴴᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ˢʰᵒʷˢ ⁱᵗ‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜʳⁱᵉˢ‧ "ᴴᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʷᵉᵃᵏ⸴ ᵇᵘˡˡⁱᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᵖᵉᵉʳˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᵇᵃⁿᵈᵒⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᴼˡᵈ ᴹᵃⁿ ᴶᵉⁿᵏⁱⁿˢ ᵖᵒⁱˢᵒⁿᵉᵈ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿᵉᵈ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵖᵒᵒʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˡᵒⁿᵉˡʸ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʸᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ⁱⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ‧ ᔆᵒ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗᵉᵃᵐ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ʷⁱˢʰ ʰⁱᵐ ʰᵃʳᵐ‧ ᴰᵉˢᵖⁱᵗᵉ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵖᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳⁱᶜᵉ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵉᵍᵒ‧ ᔆᵒ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵘᵇ ⁱᵗ ⁱⁿ‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵉᵃʳˡⁱᵉʳ ʰᵒˡᵈⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʳᵉˢᵖᵉᶜᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᵖᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵖᵒᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ˢᵒ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵐⁱˢˢ ʸᵒᵘ‧ ᴹʸ ʲᵒᵇ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵒʳᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘʳ ˡⁱᶠᵉ‧" ᴳᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉˡᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒˢˢ‧ "ᵀᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ‧" "ᵂʰᵃᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿⁿᵒᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʷᵉᵃʳ ⁱᵗ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵈᵒ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐʸ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴾᵉʳʰᵃᵖˢ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵖʳᵉʰᵉⁿᵈ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵉ ᵐᵘˢᵗ'ᵛᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵈⁱˢᵗʳᵘˢᵗᶠᵘˡ‧ ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵐʸ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ⁱᶠ ⁱᵗ ᵐᵉᵃⁿˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃⁿ ˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵃ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰᵒᵘᵗ ʰᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰᵘʳᵗ‧ ᴵ'ᵈ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵃᵇᵃⁿᵈᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴵ'ᵈ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴵᶠ ᵒⁿˡʸ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵒʷ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ʰᵉ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵐᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵈᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ˢᵘᶜʰ ʰᵃᵖᵖⁱⁿᵉˢˢ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᶜᵒᶠᶠᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉˢ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵍᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ⸴ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ⁱᶠ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʸˢ ˢᵘᶜʰ ⁱᵗ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵖᵒᵖ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃᵈᵐⁱᵗ ᵈᵉᶠᵉᵃᵗ; ᵇᵘᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧‧‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵒʷ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʷᵃⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵖᵒᵏᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ˢᵒ ⁿⁱᶜᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᵈᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᵏⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳⁱᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗⁱᶜ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿˢ ᵃˢ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‽" "ᴵ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵃ ʳᵒᵇᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ⸴ ʷᵉˡˡ ⁱᵗ⸴ ⁱᵗ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴰᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᶠᵘʳⁱᵒᵘˢ? ᴺᵒ ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᵗʰʳⁱˡˡᵉᵈ! ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ˢᵒ ᶜˡᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵐᵃʳᵗ‧ ᴬⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃⁿᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴵ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ʰᵘᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʳᵉˡⁱᵉᶠ⸴ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ᶜʰⁱˡᵈʰᵒᵒᵈ‧ » 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 | 𝟖𝟎𝟐

My Tiny Genius RibbonDee Summary: After a long day of once again trying and failing to steal the Krabby Patty Secret Formula, Plankton is feeling down in the dumps. It's up to Karen to cheer him up. Language:EnglishStats:Published:2024-02-01Words:721 There were many words to describe the Chum Bucket, and pleasant certainly was not one of them. Overall it reeked of filth, grime and all sorts of health code violations. A certain musty odor seemed to always linger in the air, no matter how much air freshener one used. Truly, it was a wonder this place was still in business. There were many theories as to why, but truly no one except for the restaurants’ owners really knew. One of said owners was in the lobby, waiting as she always did for her husband when he was off with one of his schemes. Karen was standing in the room in her mobile apparatus, her screen blank as she waited ever so patiently. Best case scenario Plankton would simply fail as usual. Worst… the Chum Bucket was blown to smithereens again. Neither outcome was good, but it was obvious which one was more favorable. Finally, a small tapping sound came from one of the doors. He was back. Karen wheeled over to the red double doors and let the poor man in. He was a mess. He was covered in ash and some bruises, and she was immediately concerned. “Plankton-” she began. “Not now honey.” Plankton sulked off, no doubt on his way to the lab. “Plankton!” The tiny organism turned around to face his computer wife. “What?” “I have dinner ready.” “I ain’t in the mood for holographic meatloaf.” He turned back around and went on his way. Karen put her robotic arms on where her hips would be and rolled on after him. “What kind of attitude is that? At least let me patch you up! It looks like it hurts!” “No it- ow. Ok fine.” Karen bent over and picked up the creature in her metal palms and gently lifted him up and began to wheel him into the lab area. She set him down on a counter and got out the first aid kit that was for this sort of thing. “How’d it go”, she said as she began to clean his wounds. “OW! Easy!” “Sorry sweetie. But how did things go? Didja get that formula this time?” “What does it look like? Nope. I failed again. Always.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” “I… I can’t do this.” “Can’t do what?” “What do you think?! I can’t get that formula! Krabs is always one step ahead!” “Oh hon, surely you’ll get it next time”, Karen said, giving Plankton a little pat on the back which caused him to fall flat on his face. “Ow.” “Sorry.” Plankton stood, and sighed. “That’s what you always say. I always go for it again, and it blows up in my face! Literally! Look at all these inventions. Failures. All of them.” Plankton’s eye was beginning to tear up. Karen felt her circuits beginning to tingle with pity. Poor little fella. She remembered all of the earlier formula-nabbing schemes, and how motivated and eager her husband was. With each failed plan Plankton grew ever more weary, which was odd as he was usually quite the tenacious type. “Oh Plankton”, Karen said tenderly. “Oh Karen! I’m a failure!” Karen gasped in horror. “You are NOT!” “How?” “For starters, you build all these amazing inventions that are way ahead of their time! You’re brilliant!” “Go on.” “You went to college!” “Yeah!” “And you're gonna GET that formula!” “Yeah!” Plankton made sure to say the last yeah extra loudly, clearly filled with his usual overinflated ego once again. It usually never took to long to reignite his drive via a small pep talk, something Karen was very happy to provide for her beloved single celled spouse. “I am going to get the formula, and make Krabs eat dirt!” “I know you are, honey. But I think you should rest or eat first.” “No I- ow. Yeah alright.” “That's the spirit, little guy. Now let's go and relax for a while. You've earned it.” Karen picked up her now relieved husband, and began to wheel them towards their living quarters so the poor little thing could rest. “I love you, my tiny little genius.” “Heh, love you too babe.” And so the pair of strange lovers were off, for now they would relax and perhaps discuss oh so evıl, diabolical and lemon scented plans for the future.

💙 https://www.verywellhealth.com/guardianship-for-adults-with-autism-4165687 💙

💙 PFA TIPS: PAIN MANAGEMENT AND AUTISM By Alizah Patterson, MD, Pediatric Resident, PL-3 , The Herman & Walter Samuelson Children’s Hospital at Sinai Download a printable version of “Pain Management and Autism “ Sensory stimulation can be perceived very differently in people with autism spectrum disorder. It is common for children to be averse to certain types of taste, texture, and flavors. How they perceive pain, however, is not very well understood. Some people believe that people with autism may have a decreased sense of pain, but pain can manifest in different ways. Identifying and managing pain can be challenging for both healthcare providers and parents. Methods to assess pain Assessing pain in children can often be a challenge for providers and parents. For older children, the number pain scale is typically used with 0 representing no pain and 10 being the worst pain imaginable. The faces pain scale allows children to choose a face – images range from happy to crying – that shows how their pain is making them feel. For children who are nonverbal, the FLACC score is often utilized. This method looks at Facial expression, Leg positioning, Activity level, Crying and Consolability. This pain scale requires more time but can reliably assess pain responses in neurotypical individuals. People with ASD or intellectual disability, or any type of cognitive impairment may express pain in other ways and may require a customized FLACC scale. This would incorporate individualized pain behaviors which is more reliable in detecting pain in individuals with cognitive impairment. Again, this would require additional time and understanding of the scale. Research on autism and pain Not much research has been done on the topic of autism and pain, partly due to the challenges of assessing pain in children with communication difficulty and partly due to the common belief that people with autism have decreased sensitivity to pain or a high pain threshold. Studies conducted with people with high-functioning ASD tend to use a pain scale of 0-10. On this scale, patients tend to respond with lower numbers, but other methods of rating pain have shown varying results. Some studies have used observations of providers or parents, which also tended to show decreased sensitivity to pain in children with autism. Other studies have challenged the idea that people with autism experience less pain. These studies found that pain is expressed differently among those with autism. One study comparing children with autism, children with intellectual disabilities, and neurotypical children showed that both behavioral changes and physiologic changes (i.e. heart rate) were higher with pain, but face scores did not vary among the groups. Some case studies have found that when asked their pain score, verbal individuals with ASD respond with low scores, but when asked how much discomfort they have, the score tends to be higher. How does pain manifest in children with autism? Children with ASD may not express pain in typical ways – crying, moaning, or withdrawing from a painful stimulus – and therefore may often be labeled as less sensitive to pain. Several case studies have shown that though children may not show these typical signs or may not react to pain in the moment, they still have physiologic reactions and behavioral reactions. Even with no obvious reaction to a painful stimulus, they may start breathing fast or their heart rate may increase. They may have increased stimming behaviors, aggression, or anxiety after the painful incident. Individuals with ASD also tend to show behavior changes for longer after the painful incident than neurotypical children or children with intellectual disabilities. When assessing for pain in a nonverbal child with ASD, close attention should be paid to increased aggression, self-injurious behaviors, stimming, or any behavior that is not typical for that child. If they are acting unlike themselves, look for a possible source of discomfort or pain that may be present or was present in the near past. In a more verbal child, asking if they have pain or if something hurts may not accurately reflect what they are feeling. Using words such as “discomfort”, “uncomfortable”, or “anxiety” may better approximate the level of pain they are in. What can I do about my child’s pain? If a source of pain can be identified, treating that pain is of utmost importance. Treatment would be the same as for any other child—analgesics such as Tylenol or ibuprofen, ice, or heat (if tolerated), and rest. Parents and providers should be wary of hidden injuries that the patient may not be able to communicate about, such as a fracture or insect bite. If the source of pain cannot be identified or you are unsure of the severity of the injury/illness, always err on the side of caution and have a physician assess your child. They should do a full skin exam to look for scratches, bites, rashes, or other injuries. If an injury is suspected to a limb, x-rays may be needed to rule out a fracture. If no clear injury or illness can be identified, parents and providers should look for other possible medical causes for the behavior changes, like abdominal pain, headache, or urinary tract infection. For pain management during painful or stress-inducing medical procedures, like a blood draw, there are several techniques that can be used. Non-pharmacologic (medication) methods are preferred. Every child may respond differently to these techniques, so some trial and error may be necessary to determine the best method for your child. • Distraction: If your child has a preferred activity, engaging them in this activity during the procedure may significantly reduce their focus on pain. This could include watching a show, blowing bubbles, deep breaths, playing with a toy, or calming movements such as a parent rocking them. • Sensory distractions: There are several items that can be used to distract a child’s senses from the painful stimulus. A vibrating device or ice placed on the area of a blood draw or lumbar puncture can reduce the pain signal sent to the brain. • Topical pain control: There are a few topical medications that can be used to reduce pain sensation. A cooling spray at the site of the procedure is quick and easy. A numbing gel or cream can also be applied 20-30 minutes prior to the procedure, which has been shown to be an effective way to manage pain during IV sticks. However, this has not been shown to reduce anxiety or fear during procedures. • Deep pressure: Firm pressure, through squeezing or a tight hug, has been shown to significantly decrease anxiety and stress in individuals with autism. This method can also be used during medical procedures to decrease discomfort. Every child is different though, so deep pressure may be too much sensory stimulation for some. Medications can also be used to control pain, as well as anxiety, during medical procedures. Pre-medication with acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be helpful in reducing pain. For extremely painful procedures, an opioid may also be reasonable, per a physician’s assessment. Anti-anxiety medications may be helpful in reducing not only anxiety but also pain as they are typically slightly sedating. If you feel it is right for your child, discuss these options with your physician. When it comes to pain management in autism, remember these key points: • Always rule out pain when atypical behaviors occur or when certain behaviors increase. • Children are all different, whether in how their pain manifests or in what strategies work best to control their pain. • There are lots of non-medication options to help manage pain and anxiety during medical procedures. 💙

💙 https://www.spectrumnews.org/features/deep-dive/unseen-agony-dismantling-autisms-house-of-pain/ 💙

nickgram.com/special-needs

If feasible, other tests the patient fears might be performed while the patient is sedated. For example, before or after dental work, vaccines could be administered, blood could be drawn, and gynaecology or other physical exams could be done. This practise requires coordination and communication among providers. 💙 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3708482/

💙 https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/what-is-medical-power-of-attorney 💙

https://www.spectrumnews.org/features/deep-dive/unseen-agony-dismantling-autisms-house-of-pain/

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/3950173/1/Rain-Check

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/13307554/14/Plan-S

CHIP OFF THE OLD TALKS iv (Autistic Author) With Chip's curiosity still piqued, Karen leads the way to Plankton's bedroom. She knows her husband needs time to process his own feelings, but she also knows that Chip's desire to understand is genuine. As they approach and crack open the door, they see Plankton in the bed on his back. He's asleep, the only sound in the room being soft snores. The room is dimly lit, with only the glow of a nightlight casting a gentle hue across his face. His antennae still, and his body is relaxed, a stark contrast to the tension that had consumed him earlier. Chip looks at his dad with a mix of fear and curiosity, unsure of what to do or say. Karen motions for Chip to come closer, her eyes never leaving Plankton's peaceful form. "Look," she whispers, her hand hovering over Plankton's shoulder. "You can touch him like this." Karen's hand lightly brushes against Plankton's arm, her touch as soft as a feather. Plankton's antennae twitched slightly, but he doesn't wake up. His snoring doesn't change, but she can feel the tension in his muscles ease slightly. "You see?" she murmurs. "Just a way of saying 'I'm here, and I love you' without overwhelming him." Chip nods, his eyes glued to the demonstration. His small hand reaches out tentatively, mimicking the gentle strokes Karen had shown him. Plankton's body relaxes further, and Karen feels a glimmer of hope. "Just like that," she whispers, her hand guiding Chip's. "It's all about being gentle and understanding. And when he's ready, he'll show you his love in his own way." Chip nods, his eyes never leaving Plankton's sleeping form. He's trying so hard to be strong, but Karen can see the fear and confusion in the way his little hands tremble. "Ok, let's go," she whispers, leading Chip out of the room. "We'll give him some time to rest. And when he wakes up, we'll talk to him again." In the hallway, Chip's questions come in a rush. "But what do we say? What do we do?" Karen crouches down to meet his gaze, her expression serious. "We're going to keep trying, okay?" she says, wiping a tear from his cheek. "We'll learn together how to be there for Daddy without making him feel overwhelmed." Chip nods, his voice a whisper. "I don't want to make him mad," he says, his eyes filling with fear. "You didn't make him mad," Karen reassures him, her voice calm. "You just surprised him. And it's okay to be surprised. But now we know how to handle it better." Later in the early evening, Karen hears Plankton's footsteps as he makes his way back into the living room. The room is still, the only sound the soft ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner. Plankton’s antennae are still, his eye no longer flashing so much with anger. He looks at Karen and Chip, who are sitting on the couch. “Hey, buddy,” Karen says, her voice tentative but hopeful. “How are you feeling?” Plankton sighs heavily, his antennae drooping slightly. “Tired,” he admits, his voice gruff. “But somewhat better.” Chip looks up at his father. “Hey, Dad,” he says softly. Plankton’s eye flicks to him, then back to the floor. “Chip,” he responds, his voice flat but almost sounding surprised. Karen sees the opening she’s been waiting for and jumps in. “Why don’t you sit with us, Plankton?” she suggests, patting the cushion next to her. After a moment's hesitation, Plankton lowers himself onto the couch, his antennae dropping slightly in defeat. He doesn’t look at either of them, focusing instead on the floorboards. Karen takes a deep breath, her heart racing with a mix of hope and trepidation. Karen takes a deep breath, her hand reaching for Chip's. "Chip found a cool rock at the park today." Plankton's antennae twitch slightly, and he looks up at Chip. "A rock, huh?" he asks, his tone neutral. "Yeah," Chip says, his voice small. "It's got all these cool colors, like the ocean." He holds out the rock, a silent peace offering. Plankton looks at the rock, his eye narrowing slightly as he takes it. His antennae twitch, but there's a glimmer of something else in his gaze—interest, maybe, or a hint of softness. He turns it over in his hand, inspecting it. "It's... nice," he murmurs. Karen squeezes Chip's hand, her heart swelling with hope. Maybe, just maybe, this could be the start of something new. "Why don't you tell him more about it?" she prompts gently. "It's got these little specks that sparkle in the light," he says, his voice gaining a bit of excitement. "I think it's a special rock." Plankton looks. "It is," he says, his voice a little less gruff. He looks at Karen, his eye searching hers. She nods encouragingly. “How was your day?” Plankton asks, his voice tentative. “It was okay,” Chip replies, still focused on the rock. “Just okay?” Plankton asks, his antennae lifting slightly. Chip nods, his gaze shifting to his dad. Chip sniffs. Plankton sets the rock down on the coffee table with a gentle thud, his antennae twitching with concern. “What, son?” Karen’s heart skips a beat, hoping this small act of kindness is a step towards a more open conversation. Chip's eyes dart between his parents, unsure how much to share. Karen gives him a nod of encouragement. “It was just a bit... scary at the park today,” Chip admits, his voice shaky. “Remember when we talked after the park?” Karen reminds him gently. Plankton’s antennae droop, and he nods, visibly trying to control his emotions. “Yes,” he murmurs. “I remember.” “Chip didn’t mean to upset you,” Karen says, her voice gentle. “He just wanted to understand what was happening. He’s curious, like all kids are. And when he saw you like that, he was scared. He just wanted to make sure you were okay and to help if he could.” “Hm.” Plankton says neutrally. Karen takes a deep breath and continues. “Chip’s been asking me a lot of questions, and I think it’s important we talk to him about yo...” Plankton sighs. "You know I hate talking about it." Karen nods. "I know," she says, her voice soothing. "But Chip's worried about you. He loves you, and he wants to know how he can help." Chip looks up at his dad, his eyes wide and earnest. "I just want you to be happy," he says, his voice trembling. Karen squeezes Plankton's hand, her voice gentle. "Chip wants to know what's going on with you, Plankton," she says. "He's not trying to be nosy or annoying. He's trying to understand what to do or not do." Plankton's antennae twitch, and he nods slowly. "I know," he murmurs. "It's just..." Karen's eyes are filled with understanding. "It's hard to be vulnerable, I know," she says. "But we need to help our son understand." Plankton looks at Chip, his expression unreadable. "Okay," he says finally. "I'll talk to him." Chip's eyes light up, hope shining through his tears. "Really?" "Really," Plankton says with a sigh, his antennae relaxing slightly. "But it's going to be on my terms, okay?" Karen nods. "Of course." Plankton takes a deep breath, his antennae drooping slightly as he steels himself for the conversation. "So, Chip," he says, his voice a little softer. "You know how sometimes you get really, really tired and need to sit down and rest?" Chip nods eagerly, his eyes fixed on his father's face. "Yeah, I know that feeling," he says. "Well, it's kind of like that," he says. "But for me, it's not just about being tired. It's like my brain needs a little break sometimes. And when it does, I might not be able to talk or move for a bit." Chip nods, his grip on Karen's hand loosening as he listens intently. "But why don't you tell us when you need a break?" he asks. "Sometimes, it happens too fast for me to say anything," Plankton explains. "It's like my brain just decides to take a little vacation without asking permission." Karen's filled with a mix of pride and sadness as she watches her son and husband finally discussing this openly. "So, when you get like that," Chip says, his voice tentative, "is it like you're in a dream?" Plankton glances at him, his antennae still. "In a way, yes," he says slowly. "It's like I'm not really here, but I can still sense." Chip nods, his curiosity unabated. "What do you sense?" Plankton takes a moment to consider his words. "I can still hear, but without comprehending," he says, "and feel things around me, but it's like... like everything's muffled, and I'm watching from far away." Chip looks thoughtful. "Can you tell when it's happening?" Plankton nods, his antennae lifting slightly. "Sometimes," he admits. "But not always."

ᵀʰᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ⁱⁿ ᴸⁱᶠᵉ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢʰᵉ'ᵈ ⁱⁿᵛⁱᵗᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵒˢᵗ ᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ᵐᵉᵉᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵍᵃᵗʰᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ˡᵃᵈʸ ʳᵉᵘⁿⁱᵒⁿ ˡᵃˢᵗˢ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ʷᵉʳᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʸᵃʳᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉⁿ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ'ʳᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵍᵒᵗ ˡᵉᵐᵒⁿᵃᵈᵉ‧ "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ! ᵂᵉ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᵇᵘʳᵍᵉʳ ᵖᵃᵗᵗⁱᵉˢ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧" ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵗᵒˡᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵐʸ ʷⁱᶠᵉ'ˢ ʰᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˡᵃᵈⁱᵉˢ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ʳᵉᵘⁿⁱᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒ ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵃ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵈ ˡᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵗᵃʸ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ˡᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᵖⁱⁿᵉᵃᵖᵖˡᵉ ʰᵒᵘˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ‧ "ᔆᵒ ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉᵉᵏᵉⁿᵈ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ʷʰᵒ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ!" ᴴᵉ ʳᵉᵖˡⁱᵉᵈ‧ ᴳᵃʳʸ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁿᵃⁱˡ ᵖᵉᵗ ᶜᵘʳˡᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵘᵖ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃ ᵍᵃᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵃʳᵃᵈᵉˢ⸴ ᵒˡᵈ ᵖᵃˡ?" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵃˢ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵃᵖᵖⁱˡʸ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵘⁿˡⁱᵏᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉᵈ ᶜᵃᶜᵏˡᵉˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵖˡᵃⁿˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱⁿ ᵗᵘʳⁿ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸᵉᵈ ˡᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᶠᵘⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ⸴ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵉⁿᵈˢ ᵗᵒ ᵃˡˡᵒʷ ⁱᵗ‧ "‧‧‧ʸᵉˢ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ʳᵃᶜⁱⁿᵍ ᵍᵃᵐᵉ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰᵉᵈ!" ᴮᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵃᵗᵉ ᵈⁱⁿⁿᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷⁱⁿᵈ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ; ʷᵉ'ˡˡ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵇⁱᵍ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱᵗ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵘˢ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ⸴ ᵏⁱᵈ‧‧" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ˢᵃʸ⸴ ˡᵉᵗ'ˢ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ ᵖᵘᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᶠⁱˡᵐ ᵐᵒᵛⁱᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ!" ᴼⁿᶜᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ˢʰᵒʷ ᵉⁿᵈˢ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵉᵃⁿˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ˢˡⁱᵍʰᵗ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵃᵇˡᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇʸ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶜᵘʳˡᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇˡᵃⁿᵏᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ‧ ᴵⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵉˡᵉᵛⁱˢⁱᵒⁿ ᵗᵛ ˢᵉᵗ ⁿᵒʳ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵉⁿᵗˡʸ ᵗᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵉ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᶠᵒʳ ⁿᵒʷ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ⸴ ᵏⁱᵈ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁱᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴴᵒʷ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ?" "ᴺᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ʷᵉˡˡ ʳᵉˢᵗᵉᵈ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵ ᵇᵉᵗ; ʸᵉˢᵗᵉʳᵈᵃʸ'ˢ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵛⁱᵉ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵃʸ ʷʰᵃᵗ‽ ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ⸴ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ⁱᶠ ʰᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳᵒᵍʳᵃᵐᵐᵉ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ ⁱᵗ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵐⁱⁿᵈ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵒ ʳᵉʷⁱⁿᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵗᵒ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵃˢᵗ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵘʳᵉ ⁱᶠ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴵ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵉʳᵉ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆᵃⁱᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ⸴ ᵃˡᵐᵒˢᵗ ᵃᵐᵘˢᵉᵈ⸴ ʸᵉᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʳᵉᵍʳᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ‧ ᴴᵉ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ʳᵉᵖˡʸ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ⁱⁿˢᵗᵉᵃᵈ ᵃᵛᵉʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵉʸᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵗᵃᶜᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵒʷ ʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉᵐ ᵒᵇˡⁱᵛⁱᵒᵘˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵉᵐᵇᵃʳʳᵃˢˢᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁱᵐᵐᵉᵈⁱᵃᵗᵉˡʸ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ⸴ ᵉⁿˢᵘⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿ ᵃʷᵏʷᵃʳᵈ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᶠ ˢⁱˡᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵇᵉᵗʷᵉᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ᵘᵖ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ᵇʳᵘⁿᶜʰ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ'ᵐ ʰᵘⁿᵍʳʸ; ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᴵ ᵖⁱᶜᵏ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᵘᵖ ᶠᵒʳ ᵘˢ⸴ ˢᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢᵗᵃʸ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ ᵃᶜᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ‧ 'ᴵⁿ ʰⁱⁿᵈˢⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʷᵃˢ ᴵ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵒᵘᵗ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ' ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴴᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ 'ᵉᵐ ᵃⁿ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ᵗᵒ ˢʰᵃʳᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵉⁿᵈᵉⁿᶜʸ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵐᵃᵈ‧ 'ᴶᵘˢᵗ ʰᵒᵖᵉ ᴵ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᶜᵃʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏⁱᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃʷᵏʷᵃʳᵈˡʸ ᵐᵃⁿⁿᵉʳ' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʷᵃⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ʰᵃᵈ ˢᵒ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᶠᵘⁿ ᵃˢ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ʸᵉˢᵗᵉʳᵈᵃʸ! ᴺᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵒⁿ ʰᵒʷ ᶜᵒⁿᵗᵉⁿᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ⁱⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰ‧‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ⸴ ᶜᵃʳʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵃᵍ‧ "ᴳᵘᵉˢˢ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ‧‧‧" "ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵘᵖ⸴ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ˢᵒ⸴ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵃʸ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵖᵒˡᵒᵍʸ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ; ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵒʳᵈᵉᵈ⸴ ʷᵉˡˡ ʸᵒᵘ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ⁿⁱᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᶠᵃˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒʳ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʰᵉʸ! ᵂʰʸ ᵃʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᵖᵒˡᵒᵍⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ? ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵐʸ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ⸴ ⁱᶠ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᶜᵒᵒˡ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵃˡˡ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᵃˢ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏᵉᵉⁿ ᵒⁿ ˢᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ᶜᵃⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵉ ᶜᵒⁿˢⁱᵈᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵐʸ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ ˢᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵖᵘᵇˡⁱᶜ‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ᵗᵒ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵐᵉᵃˡ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘˢ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵗᵒ ˢʰᵃʳᵉ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ⸴ ʰᵒˡᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵈ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᴵ ʳⁱˢᵏ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᶠⁱʳᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᶠ ˢᵒ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᶠᵒʳ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘ!"

CHIP OFF THE OLD TALKS iii (Autistic Author) With a deep breath, Plankton nods. Karen heads upstairs and returns with Chip, his eyes wide and hopeful. She sits beside Plankton, her arm around him, offering silent support. Chip takes a seat on the floor, his legs folded under him as he stares up at his dad. "Don’t just stare at me like that!" Plankton yells, his voice echoing through the small room, causing Chip to flinch. Karen's grip on his hand tightens, a silent plea for patience. Chip's eyes fill with tears as he looks up at his father, not understanding why he's being yelled at. "I'm sorry, Dad," he whispers, his voice trembling. "I just wanted to know if you're ok." Karen's heart breaks as she sees the hurt on her son's face. She turns to Plankton, her voice firm but gentle. "Plankton, we need to talk to him. He's scared, and he loves you." Plankton's eye softens at the sight of his son's tears. He takes a deep breath, visibly fighting the urge to retreat into his anger. "Okay," he murmurs. "Okay." Karen squeezes his hand, her silent support a lifeline. She looks at Chip, her eyes filled with love and hope. "You remember when we talked about how everyone is different, and some people have challenges that others don't?" Chip nods, his eyes never leaving his father's face. "Well, Dad has something called neurodivergence," Karen begins, her voice calm and steady. "It means his brain works differently than ours. Sometimes it's like he needs a little break, to reboot." Chip nods, his eyes never leaving Plankton's. "But why does he get so mad?" he asks, his voice small but earnest. Plankton's antennae quiver with irritation. "Why do you think," he snaps. "You just don't know when to leave me alone." Chip's eyes widen, his bottom lip trembling as he tries to hold back his tears. "I just want to understand," he says, his voice shaking. But Plankton's anger is a storm that doesn't easily pass. "I don't have to justify myself to you," he snaps, his antennae quivering with agitation. "So, don't ask me about it again." Chip's eyes well up with tears, his voice small and trembling. "But, Dad..." Karen's heart breaks at the sight of their son's pain, but she knows that Plankton's anger is a defense mechanism, a way for him to cope with his fear and confusion. She tries to interject, but Plankton beats her to it. “Well guess what Chip, the world doesn’t revolve around your curiosity,” Plankton snaps, his antennae standing tall with indignation. “Some things are just private, ok? Just like how I don’t ask you why you think you’re entitled!” Chip cries. “But that’s not fair to me, I…” Plankton's face contorts with annoyance, his antennae twitching erratically. “Fair? Life’s not fair, kid. Get used to it. You think you’re perfect? Maybe you should go live in a sitcom where everything’s wrapped up with a neat bow at the end of the day.” Karen winces at the harshness of Plankton’s words, but she knows her husband’s bark is worse than his bite. He’s hurting, and his defense is to lash out. She opens her mouth to speak, but Chip beats her to it. "Father," Chip says, his voice shaky but determined. "I’m trying..." "Oh, I know you're trying," Plankton says with a sneer, his antennae waving in the air like he's swatting at an invisible fly. "But you're trying to make this about you. You wanna try something? Well how about you try to start understanding that sometimes people need space, huh? Maybe then you'd get it." Karen sighs, her eyes never leaving Chip's face. "Plankton, please," she says, her voice a gentle reprimand. But Plankton's on a roll, his words coming out in a rush of bitterness and pain. "You want me to sugarcoat it for you, son? Tell it's all rainbows and sunshine?" His antennae are a blur of agitation as he stands up. "You wanna know what it's like? Imagine the world's loudest, brightest, most obnoxious parade happening in your head all day, every day. And you can't turn it off, no matter how much you want to. That's what it's like for me. So, don't you dare make it about your feelings, Chip!" Karen's chest tightens, her eyes flickering between her husband and son. She knows Plankton's frustration is a product of his condition, but the words are harsh, and the sting is real. "You know what, Chip?" Plankton continues, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Why don't you go live in a world where everyone is just like you? A perfect little bubble where everyone thinks the same, feels the same, and Neptune forbid, doesn't 'zone out'." He makes air quotes with his fingers, his antennae still twitching with agitation. Chip's eyes are red-rimmed, his cheeks wet with tears, but his voice is steady. "But Dad, I just want to know why you get like this. I want to help.." Plankton's sarcasm turns to a cold, hard edge. "Help? What can you do, huh? You think a pat on the back and a 'good job, Dad' is going to make everything ok? News flash, kiddo, it doesn't work like that, so stop acting like you know anything!" With that, Plankton storms out of the room in frustration. The door to his bedroom slams shut with a resounding thud, leaving Karen and Chip in the quiet wake of his anger. Karen pulls Chip into a tight embrace, feeling his small body shake with sobs, her own eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Chip, honey," she says, her voice soft and warm as she strokes his back. "Daddy's condition isn't something he chose. It's called Autism." Chip looks up at her with wide, questioning eyes. "What's that?" "It's a way his brain is," Karen says, her voice gentle and calm. "It's something he's had since he was born. It makes it harder for him to deal with certain things, like noise and touch. And sometimes, it's like his brain goes on a little vacation without him knowing it." Chip looks up at her with a frown. "But why didn't you tell me sooner?" Karen takes a deep breath, her eyes misting over. "Because we wanted to protect you, and we didn't want you to see him differently," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "Plankton was diagnosed after we'd already fallen in love. We didn't want to define him, or for you to think of him as anything less than the amazing person he can be when happy." Chip sniffs, his grip on her tightening. "But why does he get so mad?" Karen's gaze follows Plankton's retreating form, her heart heavy with the weight of their conversation. "His condition can make him feel overwhelmed," she explains, her voice gentle. "Sometimes, it's hard for him to control his emotions. When that happens, he says things. It's not necessarily you personally, honey, it's about him trying to deal with his own frustrations." Chip pulls back from the embrace. "But why doesn't he like to be touched by me, but meanwhile hugs you the same way I tried to?" he asks, his eyes searching hers for answers. Karen takes a deep breath, trying to find the right words to explain something so complex to a young mind. "Daddy's love is different, Chip," she says, her voice gentle. "He shows it in his own way. When I know he's had a hard day, I don't just come up and hug him. I look for signs, like if he's been more quiet than usual, or if his antennae are drooping. That's how I know he might need a hug or just some space." Chip's frown deepens. "But how do you know…" "I've learned to read him," Karen says, her voice filled with understanding. "When he needs a hug," she adds with a sad smile, "his eye gets this soft look, like he's asking for it without saying the words." Chip nods, trying to process this new information. "But what about me?" he asks, his voice small. "How do I know?" Karen sighs. "When he's about to get irritated," she begins, "it can be like he's bracing for something. That's a way I can tell." Chip nods, his curiosity piqued. "How does his face look?" Karen takes a moment, her eyes reflecting on her years of experience. "When Daddy's about to get irritated," she says, "his eye tends to narrow, just a bit." Chip looks confused. "But why does he have only one eye?" he asks, his voice innocent and curious. "It's a condition called cyclopia, which runs in his family."

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 13 (Autistic author) ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢ: ɪɴᴊᴜʀɪᴇꜱ Plankton quivers. "Stop," he whispers, his voice a plea. "Please." Mr. Krabs' grin widens, eyes glinting with cruel delight. "Afraid I'll do to you what you deserve?" Before Plankton can respond, Mr. Krabs punches at him with his claw. Plankton squeaks in pain, his eye widens with terror, his voice a distressed static. "No, Mr. Krabs, please stop!" Mr. Krabs' chuckles turn into full-blown laughter. "Look at him squirm," he says, his voice a rumble. He doesn't heed the tears streaming down Plankton's face. Plankton's body wrenches in pain, his antennae sticking straight out in alarm. "Why?" he whispers, his voice a broken static. Mr. Krabs' laughter echoes. "Because you're weak," he sneers, his voice a harsh grate. "Always have been, always will be." Plankton's body shrinks, his antennae drooping. "No," he whimpers, his voice a static plea. Mr. Krabs' laughter fills the room, his claws still poised for another strike. "Look at the tiny thief," he says, his voice a cruel cackle, "so scared of a little pain." Without warning, his claw swings down, connecting with Plankton's thin leg, and Plankton's scream pierces the air, his voice a shattered static. Pain shoots through his body like lightning, his leg feeling like it's on fire. He tries to pull away. "Mr. Krabs," he gasps, his voice a desperate whine. Mr. Krabs' laughter continues, unabated by Plankton's cries. "See? You're just a tiny, weak little creature," he says, his voice a malicious cackle. Plankton's screams fill the room, the pain in his leg unbearable. "No," he whispers, his voice a static moan. "No more." Mr. Krabs' laughter doesn't waver, his claws still poised for another strike. "Oh, poor Plankton," he sneers, his voice a harsh static. Plankton's body writhes in pain, his leg twisted at an impossible angle as Sandy and Karen return. Sandy's eyes widen in horror, her voice a shocked rumble. "Mr. Krabs, what are you doing?" she asks, as Karen rushed to Plankton. Mr. Krabs' grin doesn't falter. "Teaching a lesson," he says, his voice a cruel crackle as he finally leaves. Sandy's face is a picture of horror, her voice a trembling trill. "What did he do to you?" she asks, her eyes on Plankton's twisted leg. Karen's screens flicker with rage, her beeps sharp. "That monster!" she says, her voice filled with fury. She quickly assesses the damage. Plankton's leg is twisted grotesquely, his tiny body trembling with pain. Sandy's hands hover over his body, unsure how to help without causing more distress. Sandy nods, her face pale with shock. "I'll get SpongeBob," she says, her voice a trembling trill. She runs to the phone, dialing with trembling fingers. "Sponge Bob, please come quick," she says, her voice a desperate hum. While Sandy is on the phone, Karen's screens flicker with medical information. She quickly assembles a makeshift splint for Plankton's leg, her beeps a frantic symphony of care as SpongeBob arrives. His eyes are wide with concern, his voice a panicked squeak. "What happened, Plankton?" he asks, his eyes damp with unshed tears. But Plankton's eye had rolled up in his head. Sandy's voice is shaky as she tells Sponge Bob the story, her eyes never leaving Plankton's trembling body. "Mr. Krabs... he was so cruel," she says, her voice a soft whisper of disbelief. Sponge Bob's face twists with anger. "Why would he do this?" he asks, his voice a strained whine. "First causing brain damage, and now..." Karen's screens glow with determination. "We'll deal with Mr. Krabs later," she beeps. "First, we need to get Plankton help." Sponge Bob nods, his eyes wide with fear. "What can we do?" he asks, his voice a choked whisper. Karen's screens flicker with information. "His leg is broken, and his sensory overload could be severe." Sponge Bob's face falls, his voice a sad squeak. "Oh no, Plankton." He gently picks up his friend, his touch as soft as a feather. Sandy watches, her eyes wide with fear. "What now?" she asks, her voice a trembling trill. "We can't just take him like this to a regular hospital. We'll have to be careful not to overwhelm his senses, and find medical help equipped for neurodivergent people like Plankton." SpongeBob speaks up. "I was born with a mild form of idiopathic Autism. Different from Plankton's I know, but my parents have taken me to a sensory-friendly clinic. They are skilled and have lots of different methods of medicine! It's called the Quiet Bubble Clinic!" Sandy nods, her eyes filling with hope. "That sounds perfect," she says, her voice a gentle hum. "Let's take him there." Karen's screens pulse with agreement. "Good thinking, Sponge Bob," she beeps. "We'll have to be careful, though. Any loud noises or sudden movements could trigger another meltdown." Sponge Bob nods, his grip on Plankton steady. "Sandy can drive," he says, his voice determined. "We'll get you to the Quiet Bubble Clinic, buddy."

NEUROBEHAVIORAL PLANKTON vii (Autistic author) (see notes below) * ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴs ᴏғ ᴅɪsᴄʀɪᴍɪɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴ Sponge Bob's thumb begins to move in slow, soothing circles against Plankton's skin. "Thank you," he says, his voice barely above a whisper. Sponge Bob simply nods, his thumb continuing its soothing motion. He doesn't know how to explain the depth of his feelings, but his actions speak louder than words. His friendship with Plankton has always been unconventional, but now, in the face of this new challenge, it feels more precious than ever. Just as the moment of connection seems to solidify, the door to the Chum Bucket opens again, and Hanna tentatively steps inside, a pamphlet clutched in her hand. "I brought this," she says, her voice shaking slightly as she holds out the pamphlet. "It's about autism...and rituals that might help get rid of the autistic behaviors." Karen's snatching the pamphlet from Hanna's grip. Her eyes scan the pages, her anger building with each word. "What are you thinking?" she demands, her voice like a whipcrack. Hanna takes a step back. "I just...I thought it might help you get him back to normal," she stammers, clearly not expecting the ferocity of Karen's reaction. But Karen's anger is a volcano, erupting with the force of her love for Plankton. "These are not 'behaviors' to get rid of," she snaps, shaking the pamphlet in the air. "This is who he is now!" "But Karen, don't you think life would be easier if he wasn't...you know, like this?" Hanna tries to explain. "This isn't about making life easier for me," she snaps. "It's about supporting him!" "Karen, Plankton just needs to be fixed," Hanna says, her voice smaller now, her expression pleading. "We both know how difficult it is to be around someone with...problems." The words hit Karen. "Fixed?" she repeats, her voice low and dangerous. "Plankton isn't broken. He's not a machine to be tinkered with! These are dangerous, deadly suggestions!" Plankton flinches at the sound, his mind whirling. He feels a tiny spark of defiance in his chest. "You dare suggest that he doesn't deserve to live because he's autistic? You don't get to decide his worth!" Plankton's grip on Sponge Bob's tightens, his body stiffening, his heart racing. "How could you?" she demands, her eyes spitting fire. "You want me to just...to just get rid of him?" Hanna's eyes fill with tears as she takes another step back, her hands coming up in a defensive gesture. "I didn't mean it like that," she says, her voice quavering. "I just want to help!" But Karen's fury is a freight train, unstoppable. "Help?" she spits. "This is not help!" She gestures at the pamphlet, now a mangled mess on the floor. "This is hate, Hanna! This is saying he's not worth it because he's not like everyone else!" Plankton looks down, his antennae drooping. Was he really such a burden? Was his life not worth living? Sponge Bob squeezes Plankton's hand, his grip a silent reassurance. Karen's fury doesn't waver. "You call yourself a friend?" she says, her voice laced with disgust. "You'd throw his life away because it's inconvenient for you?" Hanna's sobs fill the room, her body trembling under the weight of Karen's accusations. "I didn't mean it like that," she whimpers. "I just...I don't know what to do." Karen's anger doesn't abate, but it turns into a deep sadness. She looks at Hanna, her eyes filled with disappointment. "You don't 'fix' someone because they're different," she says, her voice deadly calm. "You support them." Plankton watches the exchange. He feels tiny, insignificant under the weight of their words. Karen turns to Sponge Bob. "Take him to his room," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "I need to talk to Hanna." Sponge Bob nods slowly, his eyes filled with understanding. He gently helps Plankton to his feet, a steadying presence against Plankton's uncertain steps. As they walk to the bedroom, Plankton's gaze remains glued to the floor, his mind whirling with thoughts he can't quite grasp. Once Plankton is safely in bed, Sponge Bob tucks the blanket around him, his movements gentle and soothing. Plankton's body relaxes slightly under the comforting weight, his eye closing with a sigh. Karen turns to Hanna, unfurling from defensive pose. "You don't understand," she says, her voice calmer now, though still tinged with frustration. "The things you're suggesting, they're not just cruel, they're dangerous." Hanna's sobs slow, her eyes red and swollen. She looks at Karen with desperation, clearly lost in the ignorance. "What do you mean?" Karen's determined. "Straightjackets are used," she says, her words carefully measured. "They restrain patients, not help them." She pauses. "And those rituals you found, the ones that suggest them to make him 'normal'... They could kill.." Hanna's sobs stop abruptly, her breath hitching. "What?" she asks, shock etched on her features. Karen's eyes never leave Hanna's, her voice cold and devoid of pity. "You don't get to decide his worth, Hanna," she says, each word a bullet. "And you certainly don't get to decide his fate." Hanna's shoulders slump. "I'm so sorry," she whispers, her tears flowing freely. "I didn't know." Karen's expression softens slightly, the anger fading to disappointment. "You have to understand," she says. "Plankton is still Plankton. He just...sees the world differently now." Hanna sniffs, wiping away her tears. "But what if he's in pain?" she whispers. "What if his autism is making him miserable?" Karen sighs, her frustration dissipating. "He's not in pain," she explains. "He's just...sensitive. To everything. Sounds, smells, touch... exactly what the institutions expose them to, will cause pain." Hanna absorbs Karen's words. "Oh, I didn't..." she trails off, overwhelmed by the gravity of her mistake. "I'm so sorry, Karen. I didn't know." Karen nods, relaxing slightly. "I know," she says, her voice softer now. "It's a lot to take in, and it's scary when someone you love becomes...different." Hanna nods. "But you still love him," she says, a question and a statement wrapped in one. "More than anything," Karen replies without hesitation, her tentacles tightening around Hanna. "And I need you to love him too, Hanna." Hanna nods, swiping at her tears with the back of her hand. "I do," she whispers. "I just...I want him to be happy." Karen's tentacles give Hanna a gentle squeeze. "He is," she says, her voice filled with determined love. "And we'll make sure he stays that way." The two of them stand there, the silence of the moment heavy between them. Karen's eyes drift to the closed bedroom door, beyond which Plankton sleeps peacefully. The sounds of the Chum Bucket are muted, the only noise the distant hum of the laboratory equipment. In that quiet, Karen's tentacles relax slightly, the anger of the confrontation dissipating. She looks back at Hanna, her expression softening. "Thank you for coming," she says, her voice still firm but lacking the sharp edge of anger. "But you have to understand that this isn't something to be fixed. It's part of him now. Let's go check on him." They find SpongeBob sitting on the foot of the bed, his hand still entwined with Plankton's, their fingertips barely touching. Plankton's breathing is deep and even, a stark contrast to the turmoil of moments before. His antennae twitch occasionally, his mouth barely parted in a quiet snore. Hanna follows Karen into the room, her eyes wide and frightened. She sees Sponge Bob and his gentle touch with Plankton and her expression softens slightly. This is new to her, this quiet understanding, but she can't help but be moved by the sight. Sponge Bob looks up, his eyes filled with a certain sadness that mirrors Karen's. He nods silently, acknowledging her thanks. Hanna's eyes dart to Plankton, who remains fast asleep, his single eye closed peacefully. Karen sits beside the bed, reaching out to stroke Plankton's forehead. His skin is cool to the touch, his breathing steady. She whispers to Hanna, "We need to be careful with him. He's...fragile." Hanna nods, swallowing her tears. She moves closer, her own hand tentatively reaching out to touch Plankton's hand. His antennae twitch but he doesn't wake. The room is bathed in a soft glow, the dimmed lights designed to reduce stimulation and ease his sensory overload. Karen's breathing slows as she watches the scene before her, her heart swelling with love and gratitude for the support Sponge Bob is providing. Hanna's tentative touch seems to soothe Plankton, his snoring growing slightly more rhythmic. Sponge Bob smiles softly at Hanna, his thumb still moving in gentle circles around Plankton's. "You're doing good," he whispers. "He just needs us to be patient and understanding." Hanna nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's face. "I'll try," she says, her voice quiet and earnest. "I really will." Karen looks at Hanna, her eyes softening. "It's not easy," she admits. "But it's worth it." **NOTEs As an autistic writer (and I used AI to help me with the words) I do not encourage the ableism people have shown in their ignorance. Depending on when and where you live, some people have thought such therapies might be good, without actually accepting nor helping. Even Hans Asperger has supported eugenics during the war, sending people to internment camps leading to demise. I came across the site autismmemorial.wordpress.com if you'd like to educate yourself about how people have endured such.*

Sensory inputs can be any stimuli entering through one of the sensory modalities: sight, sound, gustation, olfaction, and tactile sensations. Tactile sensations include responses to pressure and temperature. Over stimulation is the product of sensory overload. Overstimulation (OS) occurs when there is “to much” of some external stimulus or stimuli for a person's brain to process and integrate effectively. Sensory overload can be triggered by a singular event or a build up thereof. When the brain has to put all of its resources into sensory processing, it can shut off other functions, like speech, decision making and information processing. Using noise-cancelling headphones to vastly reduce external sound, which can help to stop sensory over load. Weighted sensory products, such as blankets or vests, to provide pressure and soothing proprioceptive input. Avoiding open questions – if you need their input on something, aim to use closed yes/no questions. It causes feelings of discomfort and being overwhelmed. Moving away from sources of sensory input, such as loud sounds or strong smells, can reduce these feelings. However, it is a core characteristic of autism, where individuals often experience heightened sensitivity to stimuli. It's important to note that not all autistic individuals experience overstimulation in the same way or to the same degree. Some may have a higher threshold for sensory input and be less easily overwhelmed, while others may become overstimulated even in relatively calm environments. Stimming, short for self-stimulating behaviors, is a repetitive movement or action that can include body movements, vocal noises, or sensory stimulation. It can be a way to manage excess energy, self-soothe, or cope with emotions. Stimming can also help regulate sensory input, either increasing stimulation or decreasing sensory overload. Stimming behaviors can consist of tactile, visual, auditory, vocal, proprioceptive (which pertains to limb sensing), olfactory, and vestibular stimming (which pertains to balance).

https://www.wikihow.com/Interpret-Autistic-Body-Language

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ableism

Tue June 22nd, 2010 at 9:39pm I work with Autistic children every week. I work with a boy who has never spoken to me. Today he looked me straight in the eye and said “Thank you, Samantha” I cried so hard. He GMH

ᴺᵘʳˢᵉ ᴾᵃᵗ ⁽ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃᶰᶠᶤᶜ⁾ [ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ ᵃᶰᵈ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵖˡᵃʸᶤᶰᵍ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ] ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᶜᵃᵗᶜʰᵎ [ᴴᵉ ᵗᵒˢˢᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: [ᵍʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ] [ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʷᵃˡᵏˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʳᵘᶰ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ᴸᵒᶰᵍᵎ [ʰᵉ ᵗʰʳᵒʷˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ ʰᵃʳᵈ ʷᶤᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵐᶤˢˢᶤᶰᵍ ᶤᵗ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ ʰᶤᵗ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᶤᶰˢᵗᵉᵃᵈ] ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ: [ᴮᵃʳᵉˡʸ ᶰᵒᵗᶤᶜᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ʷʰᵉᶰ ˢᵘᵈᵈᵉᶰˡʸ ʰᶤᵗ ᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈ; ʰᶤˢ ᵉʸᵉ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ᵍᵒᶤᶰᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᶤᶰ ʳᵒˡˡᶤᶰᵍ ᶤᶰ ʰᶤˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᶜˡᵒˢᶤᶰᵍ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶠᵃˡˡˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵒᵘᶰᵈ˒ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸᵗʰᶤᶰᵍ ᶠᵃᵈᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᵇˡᵃᶜᵏ] [ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃᶰᵈ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ ᵃʳᵉ ˢᵉᵉᶰ ᵗʰᵉᶰ ˡᵒᵒᵏᶤᶰᵍ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ᴴᵉʸ ᶜᵃᶰ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᶤᵛᵉ ᵘˢ ᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏˀ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᴾᵃᵗ ᴵ ᵗʰᶤᶰᵏ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵘᶰᶜᵒᶰˢᶜᶤᵒᵘˢˑˑˑ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ᴴᵘʰˀ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: [ᵍᵒᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᶠᵉᵉˡᶤᶰᵍ ʰᶤˢ ᶠᵒʳᵉʰᵉᵃᵈ] ˢᵉᵉ ᵖᵃˢˢ ᵒᵘᵗᵎ [ˡᵉᵃᶰˢ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ˢᵒ˒ ᵈᵒ ʷᵉ ᵈᵒ ᶜᵖʳˀ [ʷᵃˡᵏˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉᵐ] ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: [ᵗᵘʳᶰˢ ᵗᵒ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ] ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵃᶰᵈ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰᶤᶰᵍ˒ ˢᵒ ᶰᵒ ᑦᴾᴿ ᶰᵉᶜᵉˢˢᵃʳʸˑ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: [ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˢ ᵗᵒ ᵍʳᵃᵇ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ˢʰᵃᵏᵉ ʰᶤᵐ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵇˡᵒᶜᵏˢ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᶤᶰᵍ] ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: [ʳᵉᵗʳᶤᵉᵛᵉˢ ʰᶤˢ ᵃʳᵐ'ˢ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ ʷᵉ ᵐᵘˢᵗᶰ'ᵗ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ʰᶤᵐ ᵘᶰˡᵉˢˢ ʷᵉ ᵃᵇˢᵒˡᵘᵗᵉˡʸ ᶰᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒᵎ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ᴵˢ ʰᵉˑˑˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʷᶤˡˡ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵉᵛᵉᶰᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ʷᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ˢᵘʳᵉ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉˑ [ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵗʰᵉᶰ ᶰᵉˣᵗ ˢᵉᵉᶰ ˢˡᵒʷˡʸ ᵒᵖᵉᶰᶤᶰᵍ ʰᶤˢ ᵉʸᵉ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃˡᶤᵛᵉᵎ [ˢᵠᵘᵉᵉᶻᵉˢ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᶤᶰ ᵃ ᵗᶤᵍʰᵗ ʰᵘᵍ] ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᴱᵃˢʸ˒ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏᵎ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: [ᴰʳᵒᵖˢ ʰᶤᵐ] ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ: ᵞᵒʷᵎ ᵂʰᵃˑˑˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᵞᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᵇᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵉᶠᵘˡ [ˢᶤᵗˢ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵘᵖ] ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵐᶤᵍʰᵗ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵘᶰᵈᵉʳˢᵗᵃᶰᵈ ʸᵉᵗᵎ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ᴼʰ˒ ˢᵒʳʳʸˑ [ᴸᵉᵃᶰˢ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ] ᴴᶤ˒ ᴵ'ᵐ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏˑ [ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏᶤᶰᵍ ˢˡᵒʷˡʸ ᵖᵒᶤᶰᵗᶤᶰᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᶤᵐˢᵉˡᶠ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ ˢᵗᵃʳᵎ ᴬᶰᵈ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶰᵃᵐᵉ ᶤˢ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰᵎ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑ ˢᵃʸ ᶤᵗ˒ ʷᶤᵗʰ ᵐᵉˑˑˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: [ᴵᶰᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᶤᶰᵍ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ˒ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍˡᵃʳᵉˢ ᵇᵉᶤᶰᵍ ᵃᶰᶰᵒʸᵉᵈ] ᴵ ᵈᵒᶰ'ᵗ ᵗʰᶤᶰᵏ ᶤᵗ'ˢˑˑˑ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵍᵒ ˢˡᵒʷᵉʳˑ ᴹᵉ˒ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏˑˑˑ ᵞᵒᵘ˒ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑˑˑ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᴺᵒ ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃᶰˑˑˑ [ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵗʳᶤᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵃᶰᵈ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗᵒᵖᵖˡᵉˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ] ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃᵍᵃᶤᶰ; ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵈᵒ ᶜᵖʳ ᵇʸ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰˑˑˑ [ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵖᵘᶰᶜʰᵉˢ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ ᵃʷᵃʸ] ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᶠᶤᶰᵉˑˑˑ [ᶠᵃˡˡˢ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵘˢʰ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉᶰ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ᵘᵖ] ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᶤᵗ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᶰᵒʷ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏˑ [ᶠᵃᶜᵉˢ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ] ᵞᵒᵘ ˢᵉᵉ˒ ʷᵉ ᵖˡᵃʸᵉᵈ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ [ᵖᶤᶜᵏˢ ᵘᵖ ˢᵃᶤᵈ ᶠʳᶤˢᵇᵉᵉ] ᵃᶰᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᶜᶜᶤᵈᵉᶰᵗᵃˡˡʸ ᵍᵒᵗˑˑˑ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ: ᴴᵒʷ ˡᵒᶰᵍ ᵃᵍᵒˀ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ: ᵂᵉ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉᶰ ᵇʸ ʸᵒᵘʳ ˢᶤᵈᵉ ʳᶤᵍʰᵗ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᶤᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉᶰᵉᵈ˒ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵐᵒᵐᵉᶰᵗˢ ᵃᵍᵒᵎ ᴾᵃᵗʳᶤᶜᵏ: ˢᵒʳʳʸˑˑ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ: ᴵ ᶰᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍᵒᶤᶰᵍ ᵐᵒʳᵉˑˑ [ᵀʰᵉʸ ˢᵉᵖᵃʳᵃᵗᵉ ᵍᵒᶤᶰᵍ ᵗʰᵉᶤʳ ᵒʷᶰ ʷᵃʸˢ]

ᴳᵉᵗ ᵂᵉˡˡ 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 𝟻𝟶𝟶 ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᶜˡᵒˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉʷ ʷᵉˡˡ ᵇʸ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ˢᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ, ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ˢˡⁱᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ˡᵒᵘᵈˡʸ ˢˡᵃᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᶠᵃˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵇᵉˡᵒʷ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉˡˡ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰᵉ’ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢʷⁱᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵒʳ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵗ ᵃˡˡ‧ “ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᴵ’ᵐ ᶜᵒᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧‧” ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ, ᵘˢⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵒᵖᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵉˡᶠ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵈʳᵒʷⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ᶠᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˢᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵘᵖ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵒˡˡᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᶠᵘˡˡʸ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ “ᴼʰ, ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗˡʸ ᵗᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ‧ “ᴵ’ᵛᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ, ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵃʸ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ‧” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵖˡᵉᵃᵈᵉᵈ, ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶜʳʸ‧ “ᵀᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ‧ ʸᵉˡˡ ᵃᵗ ᵐᵉ, ᵈᵒ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃʳ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ! ᴺᵒ ᵒʰ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ⁿᵒ‧‧” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵈⁱᵈ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ˢᵘʳᵉ ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʷⁱˢᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ⁿᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ‧ ᴺᵒᵗ ᵒᵖᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ, ⁿᵒʳ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʳᵉᶠˡᵉˣⁱᵛᵉ ᵗʷⁱᵗᶜʰᵉˢ; ⁿᵒᵗ ʳⁱᵍⁱᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˡⁱᵐᵖ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢˡⁱⁿᵍˢ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒᵈʸ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈᵉʳ ᶜᵃʳʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃʳʳʸ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ⁱⁿ ˢᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠˡᵃᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵖⁱˡˡᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ˢᵘᵖᵖᵒʳᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳ ⁱⁿ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ‧ “ᴴᵉ’ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵉⁿˢⁱⁿᵍ…” “ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰ‧ ᴾᵃⁿⁱᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵒⁿ’ᵗ ʰᵉˡᵖ ˢᵒ ˡᵉᵗ’ˢ ʳᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ‧” “ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ, ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒ ˡⁱᶠᵉˡᵉˢˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵘʳᵗ‧” “ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ, ʸᵒᵘ’ᵛᵉ ˢᵃᵛᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ˡⁱᶠᵉ, ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴴᵉ’ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵈᵉᵃᵈ ᵇʸ ⁿᵒʷ ⁱᶠ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵃⁿʸ ˡᵒⁿᵍᵉʳ‧” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ ˢᵗᵃʸ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ? ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ…” “ᔆᵗᵃʸ ᵇʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ? ʸᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵃʸ‧‧” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳˢ ᵗᵒ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ˡᵉᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵃⁿ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ˢᵒᶠᵃ‧ “ᴴᵉ ᵗᵃˡᵏᵉᵈ ˢᵒ ᵉⁿᵗʰᵘˢⁱᵃˢᵗⁱᶜᵃˡˡʸ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵘⁿ‧” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵉᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵃˡᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ‧ “ᴵ’ᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ, ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ʰᵉ ˡⁱᵏᵉˢ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧” ᔆʰᵉ ᵃᵈᵐⁱᵗᵗᵉᵈ‧ “ᴵ’ˡˡ ᵃᵈᵐⁱᵗ ᴵ ᵃᵈᵐⁱʳᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᶜʳᵉᵃᵗⁱᵛⁱᵗʸ‧‧” ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗˡʸ ᶜʰᵘᶜᵏˡᵉᵈ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢᵃᵈ ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ‧ “ᴳᵉᵗ ʳᵉˢᵗ, ᴵ’ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ⁿᵉᵃʳ‧” ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʸˢ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒᶻᵉ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʷʰᵃᵗ ˢᵉᵉᵐᵉᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵃⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵃᵗ ᵘᵖ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍʳᵒᵃⁿᵉᵈ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵏᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵉᵍᵃⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢⁿᵉˢˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵘᵖ ʸᵉᵗ‧ “ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?” ᴺᵒʷ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ‧ ᴳʳᵒᵍᵍⁱˡʸ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ˢˡᵒʷ‧ “ᵂʰᵉʳᵉ ᵃᵐ ᴵ…” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵘᵐᵇˡᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵒᵘⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍ ˢˡᵘʳʳᵉᵈ‧ ᴺᵒᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ᑫᵘⁱᵗᵉ ᶜᵒʰᵉʳᵉⁿᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ᵇˡⁱⁿᵏᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ “ᵂʰᵃᵗ’ˢ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ?” ᴴᵉ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵗᵒ‧ ᴬˢ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉˢ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ʳᵃᵈⁱᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵈⁱᶻᶻʸ ᵗᵒ‧ “ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ, ʰᵉʸ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁿ ᵃᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ’ʳᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧” “ᵂʰᵃᵗ? ᵂʰᵉⁿ’ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ? ᵂʰʸ’ˢ ᵐʸ ʰᵉᵃᵈ…” “ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰⁱᵗ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵃʳˡʸ ᵈʳᵒʷⁿᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ʷᵉˡˡ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵃᶠᵉ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴵᵗ’ˢ ᵉᵃʳˡⁱᵉʳ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ‧‧” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ “ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ, ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧” “ʸᵒᵘ ᵈⁱᵈ? ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ, ᵏⁱᵈ‧‧” “ʸᵒᵘ’ʳᵉ ʷᵉˡᶜᵒᵐᵉ‧‧”

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 14 (Autistic author) ᵂᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍˢ: ʰᵒˢᵖⁱᵗᵃˡ They carefully lift Plankton into the car, his body tense with pain. Sandy slides into the driver's seat, her hands gripping the wheel. Her eyes meet Sponge Bob's in the rearview mirror, filled with resolve. "Ready?" she asks, her voice a gentle hum. Sponge Bob nods, his eyes never leaving Plankton's face. "Ready." Karen buckles Plankton in as his eye flutters. "Hold tight," Sandy says, her voice a steady rumble, as she starts the engine. The car's gentle purr is a contrast to the tension in the air. Sponge Bob sits in the back, his eyes trained on Plankton's face. His friend's tiny body is a tapestry of pain, but Sponge Bob's touch is a soft, steady beat, trying to soothe him. "It's okay, Plankton," he whispers, his voice a comforting whisper of reassurance. Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye slightly focusing on Sponge Bob. "Mph," he murmurs, his voice a static hum of pain. Sponge Bob nods, his face a mask of determined compassion. "We're going to the Quiet Bubble Clinic," he says, his voice a soft, steady wave. "They'll know how to help you." Sandy's eyes are on the road ahead, her driving slow and precise. "Just hold on, Plankton," she says, her voice a comforting hum. "We're almost there." The Quiet Bubble Clinic comes into view, a softly lit building that seems to pulse with a gentle calm. Sandy parks the car and they carefully extract Plankton from his seat, his tiny body rigid. They enter the lobby, the air thick with the scent of calming essential oils. The lights are low, and the sounds muffled. A nurse with a gentle face approaches, her voice a soothing whisper. "What can we help with?" she asks, her eyes on Plankton's twisted leg. Sponge Bob explains quickly, his voice trembling with concern. "Mr. Krabs hurt his leg," he says, his eyes wide. "Krabs also hit his head with a fry pan, which caused Plankton autism as well as the accompaniment of sensitivities. But his leg hurts and needs fixed!" The nurse nods, her movements slow and deliberate. "We'll need to be careful with his heightened senses," she murmurs, her voice a soft melody. "Let's get him to a room." They navigate the hallways, the walls lined with soothing pictures and textures. Plankton's body is stiff with pain, his voice a static hiss with each step. "Please," he whispers, his antennae waving weakly. The nurse nods, her touch gentle as she leads them to a quiet, dimly lit exam room. "We need to fix your leg, sweetie," she says, her voice a gentle breeze. Plankton's eye flutters open. The nurse's voice is a gentle lullaby. "We're going to take good care of you," she says, her eyes kind and understanding. Plankton's body shakes with fear and pain, his antennae pressed against his head. Sponge Bob squeezes his hand, his voice a comforting whisper. "You're going to be okay, Plankton," he says, his eyes filled with concern. The nurse nods, her gloved hands moving with precision. "We're going to need to put him under," she says, her voice a soft whisper. "It's the safest way to manage his pain and sensitivity." Plankton's antennae quiver with fear, his single eye darting back and forth. "Under what," he whispers. The nurse's smile doesn't reach her eyes. "Anesthesia," she says softly, her voice a comforting hum. "It'll help you sleep through the surgery." Plankton's antennae twitch with anxiety, his voice a nervous static. "Sleep?" he repeats, his eye doubtful. "Plankton light sleeper." The nurse nods, her eyes calm. "We understand, sweetie," she murmurs. "We'll make sure you're comfortable." They prep him for surgery, the air in the room thick with his fear. Sponge Bob holds his hand, his thumb rubbing gentle circles on his palm. "It'll be over soon," he whispers, his voice a soothing wave. The doctor, a kind-eyed squid, enters the room, his tentacles moving with calming precision. "We're going to give you something to help you relax," he says, his voice a gentle trill. "We've ways to sedate. One, a pill tablet. Two, a liquid to drink. Three, nasally. Four, cream gel to numb the place the IV goes in but, it'll be inserted after he's asleep anyway. Now the first two options are taken orally, so they might take a moment to work..." "Drink; Plankton, drink.." Plankton manages, looking at a chart of diagrams which illustrate each method. The doctor nods, his tentacles steadily adjusting the bed. "Very good," he says, his voice a gentle wave of reassurance. He hands Plankton a small cup. "This is a special drink," he explains, his eyes meeting Plankton's. "It'll help you relax before surgery." Plankton's antennae twitch with anxiety as he takes the cup. He looks to Sponge Bob, whose grip on his hand tightens. "It's okay," Sponge Bob whispers, his voice a calming static. With a shaky hand, Plankton brings the cup to his mouth, his eye squeezed shut. He gulps down the liquid as they give him a blanket. He finishes the drink and hands the cup back. Sponge Bob's grip doesn't waver, his thumb still moving in soothing circles. "Good job, buddy," he whispers, his voice a gentle sea breeze. Sandy nods as Karen gives Plankton a kiss. The nurse's eyes are warm and comforting as she checks his vitals. "It won't be long now," she murmurs, her voice a soft hum of reassurance. Sponge Bob sits by the bed, his grip on Plankton's hand firm but gentle. "You're doing great," he says, his voice a calming whisper. Plankton's antennae twitch with the first wave of drowsiness, his eye slowly closing. The world around him begins to fade into a soft, fuzzy static. Sponge Bob watches, his grip on Plankton's hand unyielding. "It's going to be okay," he whispers, his voice a gentle rush of air. The anesthesia starts to take effect, Plankton's body gradually going slack, his breathing deepening. Sponge Bob's eyes follow the rise and fall of Plankton's chest, his grip on his hand tight. "You're okay, buddy," he whispers, his voice a gentle static. Plankton's antennae twitch one last time before stilling, his eye fully closed. The nurse nods, satisfied with his vitals. "He's out," she says as his soft snores fill the room.

⁉️*️꩜

CONSOLE TONSIL iii Plankton's eye fluttered open just enough to see Karen beside him. He felt groggy and disoriented, the events of the day a distant, hazy memory. He then notices Hanna brimming with tears. He blinked slowly, trying to clear the fog. "Karen," he croaked, his voice hoarse from surgery and emotional turmoil. "Hanna?" "I'm so sorry," Hanna choked out with regret. "I didn't mean to...I didn't know." "What happened?" he rasped. Karen's gaze softens. "You had a bit of a shutdown, Plankton," she said gently. "You've had a long day, and everything just became too much." The word 'burden' echoed in Plankton's mind. "Burden?" he managed to croak. "Hanna said something she didn't mean," she began,. "She didn't understand what she was saying, but she hurt you, and she's sorry." The word 'burden' it seemed, that fear had been given a voice. He looked from Karen to Hanna. "Burden," he said, barely a whisper. "Is that what you think of me?" Hanna looked stricken. "No, Plankton, I just..." Her voice trailed off. He had always known that he was different, that his size and his quirks set him apart from others. "It's ok," Karen said, her voice soothing. "We all have moments where we say things without thinking. But what's important is that you know you're not a burden to me, Plankton. You never have been, and never will be." Plankton's word 'burden' ringing. "Hanna didn't mean it, she just didn't understand." But the word had already taken root in Plankton's mind. Burden. The word resonated through Plankton but to be called a burden was something else entirely. "Plankton, I'm sorry," she said again, "I didn't know." But Plankton could only repeat the word. "Burden," he croaked. Karen reached out, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "No, Plankton, you're not a burden," she said, her voice steady and firm. "You're loved and valued, just the way you are." "Burden," he murmured agai. "I'm a burden." "Plankton," Karen said, her voice a gentle reprimand. "You are not a burden." But Plankton's eye remained fixed, voice a hollow echo. "Everything I do is a burden," he murmured. Karen squeezed his shoulder. "Plankton, please, don't say that." "Burden," Plankton whispered, voice barely a breath. Karen's heart broke at the sound of his self-loathing. "Plankton, you're not a burden," she insisted, her voice filled with compassion. "Am a burden," he repeated, the word sticking to his tongue like a sour candy. "What can I do?" Hanna asked, desperation seeping. "Listen," Karen said, turning to face her. "You need to understand that Plankton isn't just being dramatic. This isn't something you can just apologize for and expect him to get over. His brain works differently. He processes stress in a way that's unique to him. And when you said that..." Her voice trailed off, unable to find the right words to express the gravity of the situation. "I'm a burden," Plankton murmured. "You're not a burden, Plankton," she said, her voice a soft, steady rhythm. "You're my friend, and I care about you." "Burden," Plankton said, his voice a quiet rebuttal. He was stuck in a loop of pain and she wasn't sure how to pull him out. "Plankton, you're not," she began, but he cut her off. "Burden," Plankton murmured, his voice a sad refrain. "Plankton," Karen said, her voice a gentle plea. "You're not a burden." "Burden," Plankton replied, his voice a soft echo of despair, "is a burden." Karen tries to find the right words to cut through the fog of his pain. "Plankton," she said firmly, "you are not a burden. You're my husband, and my confidant." "But a burden," Plankton whispered, voice trembling. "I am burden." "Plankton, please," she said. "You're not a burden." "Burden," Plankton said, his voice a stubborn echo. "Everything I do is a burden." "No, Plankton," Karen insisted, her tone firm but filled with care. "You're not a burden. You're an essential part of this home." But the word 'burden' a heavy weight on his soul. "I'm not a burden," he murmured, the words barely a breath. "I'm not." "Right, you are not," Karen said. "You're so much more.." "Burden," his voice a quiet protest. "I'm just a burden." "You're not a burden," she said. "You're a companion, and a vital part of our lives." "But, burden," Plankton whimpered, his voice a sad refrain. "I is burden." Karen took his hand. "You are not," she said, her voice a gentle but firm declaration. "You're a unique and wonderful being, Plankton." "Plankton, burden," Plankton repeated, his voice a whisper of doubt. "I, burden." "Plankton," she said. "You are not a burden. You're a brilliant mind, and family." Plankton's word 'burden' still clinging to the edges of his consciousness. "But, Karen," he whispered, "I am burden." "No," Karen said firmly, voice unyielding. "You are not. You are treasure, a light in this world." Plankton blinked slowly, the word 'burden' echoing in his mind like a mournful chant. "But I burden," he protested, his voice barely above a whisper. "Burdens, Plankton." "You are loved." "Karen," Plankton said, his voice shaking with emotion, "I burden." Karen leaned closer. "Plankton," she said softly, "you're not a burden. You're someone who brings joy and laughter into our lives." Plankton's gaze searched hers, the word 'burden' still clinging to his every thought. "But I burden," he murmured, his voice a sad echo. "You're a part of this home, a piece of our lives." But Plankton's mind was a tumultuous sea, the word 'burden' a stormy island he couldn't escape. "Burden," he said again, his voice a sad admission. Karen's looking for a way to bridge the gap between his pain and the truth. "Plankton," she said, her voice a gentle reminder, "you're not a burden." "Burden," Plankton whispered, the word a sad acceptance in his mind. "I burden." "Plankton," she began, but he talked over her. "Burden," Plankton said, his voice a sad refrain. "Everything I do, burden." "Plankton," she said, her voice a gentle but firm counterpoint. "Burden," Plankton murmured, his voice a quiet echo of despair. "Everything I do, a burden." Karen felt the urgency to reach him, to pull him out of the dark pit of his thoughts. "Plankton, you're not a burden." Plankton's eye remained unfocused, his voice a sad refrain. "Burden," he whispered, the word a painful acceptance. "Everything I do, I burden." "You're not a burden." "But, Karen," Plankton murmured, his voice a sad refrain, "everything I do is burden." Karen's looking for any sign of the vibrant spirit she knew was there. But Plankton's gaze remained vacant, the word 'burden' echoing in his mind like a funeral bell. Karen knew she had to do something, had to find a way to break through the barrier that had been so carelessly built. She took a deep breath, reaching for the one thing she knew could always lift his spirits. "Remember the time we built that sandcastle?" she asked, her voice filled with the warmth of nostalgia. "The one with the moat that kept filling up with jellyfish?" Plankton's eye flickered with the ghost of a smile. "Jellyfish," a soft echo of a happier time. "Yes," Karen said, her voice a gentle nudge. "Remember how we laughed when they kept popping the bubbles in the moat?" A flicker of life returned to Plankton's eye. "Burden, Bubbles," he murmured. Karen clung to the glimmer of hope. "And the karaoke nights? When you sang that sea shanty about the Krabby Patty?" "Krabby Patty," the words a soft echo of happier times. Karen's seeing the first crack in the wall of pain he had built around himself. She took his hand, voice filled with warmth. "Remember pranks we’d play on SpongeBob?" Plankton's gaze flickered with a glimmer of amusement. "Jellyfish," he murmured. Encouraged, Karen pressed on. "And the time we accidentally turned the restaurant into a bubble bath?" "Bubble bath," he murmured, his voice a soft echo of the laughter they had shared. "Yes," Karen said, her voice a gentle caress. "Remember how Mr. Krabs had to wear those ridiculous floaties because he couldn't swim in the bubbles?" Plankton's smile grew. "Floaties," he murmured, a hint of laughter in his voice. Karen squeezed his hand. "See, Plankton. You're not a burden. You're a partner in crime, and the best roommate I could ask for." The room remained still, the only sound the steady beat of Plankton's heart. Then, ever so slowly, his smile grew, pushing back the shadows in his mind. "Karen," he murmured, his voice a soft echo of gratitude. "Thank you." Hanna's pixel eyes widened with hope, the guilt still etched on her face. "Plankton," she said, her voice tentative. "I'm so sorry for what I said. I didn't mean it. You're not a burden. You're...you're like family to us." Plankton's gaze shifted to her, the weight of her words a gentle nudge towards healing. "Family," he murmured, the word a tentative bridge over the chasm of his doubt. "Yes," Hanna said, her voice earnest. "I'm sorry for not understanding before. But I do now. And I'll do better." "You will?" he asked, a tentative thread of hope. "Yes," Hanna said with earnestness. "I'll learn, listen, and I'll be more considerate of how my words can affect." Karen nodded in approval, her grip on Plankton's hand tightening slightly. "That's all we can ask," she said, her tone a gentle reprimand. "For you to understand and do better." Hanna's pixel eyes well up with tears. "I'm so sorry, Plankton," she said, voice shaking. "I had no idea." Plankton's gaze softened, the word 'burden' slowly losing grip. Karen released a sigh of relief, tension in the room easing. "What's important," she said, her voice a gentle guide, "is that we all understand each other better now." Hanna nodded with remorse. "I'll do anything to make it right," she said, a solemn vow. Plankton looked from Karen to Hanna, the word 'burden' losing power. "Ok," he murmured. "I forgive."

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GEP7KkaWcAALSij?format=png&name=small

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 12 (Autistic author) 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: 𝐛𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 Sandy's eyes follow his finger as it traces through the grid. "Ah, here it is," she says, her voice a calm hum. "I'm gonna go find Karen, I'll be back!" But then Mr. Krabs, who hasn't had Plankton try to steal the formula since the fry pan incident, comes in to check and see what he's up to. "What are ye doing?" Mr. Krabs snaps, his eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Why isn't this little troublemaker trying to steal me formula?" Plankton's antennae wilt at the sound of Mr. Krabs' gruff voice, his sensory haven shattered by the intrusion. Mr. Krabs storms into the room, his claws waving in the air. "What's this nonsense?" he barks, his voice a thunderclap to Plankton. "A book; more like some blueprints!" Mr. Krabs sneers, his claws snatching the word search from Plankton's trembling hands. Plankton's eye widens with horror as Mr. Krabs crinkles the pages, ripping up the book. Mr. Krabs rips the pages with a satisfied smirk, his eyes gleaming with malice. "This is what happens when ye too cozy with the enemy," he says, his voice a harsh crackle as he tips the bookshelf onto the floor with a bang. Plankton's antennae snap back, his body tense with fear. The painful memory of the frying pan flashes through his mind, his voice a terrified static. "No!" he squeaks. Mr. Krabs looms over him, his eyes a cold, hard gleam. "What's wrong with ye?" he barks, his voice a rough scratch of sarcasm. "Ye gonna cry?" Plankton's eye fills with tears. "No," he whimpers. Mr. Krabs laughs, his cackle echoing through the room. "Look at the tiny thief, so scared of a little noise!" he sneers, his voice a grating static. Plankton's body shrinks, his antennae drooping. "Krabs," he whispers, his voice a desperate static. Mr. Krabs' laughter fills the room, his claws still gripping the torn pages. "Look at the wittle thief," he mocks, his voice a cruel cackle. Plankton's single eye darts around the room, seeking escape from the crushing wave of stimulation. The pressure of Mr. Krabs' stare is like a boulder on his chest. "What's the matter, Plankton?" Mr. Krabs sneers, leaning down so his face is inches from Plankton's. "Afraid I'll catch you red- handed?" Plankton's antennae flatten against his head, his breath quick and shallow. "No," he whispers, his voice a static hiss of fear. Mr. Krabs' looming presence is like a shadow over him, his voice a grating buzz. "What's the matter, Plankton?" he sneers. "Can't handle a little competition?" Plankton flinches, his antennae retracting. The pressure of the crab's eyes bore into his soul, his voice a panicked static. "No, Mr. Krabs, please," he whispers. Mr. Krabs' claw slams down onto the coffee table, the impact rattling everything on it. "I see," he says, his voice a cruel chuckle. "Ye've gone soft."

Expect different bødy language. Autistic people don't always make eye contact, sit still, or look at the person they are listening to. However, that doesn't mean they aren't paying attention. It's helpful to be direct, so they don't get confused about your intentions. Here are some examples of things you could say: "Do you want to hold hands?" "How about a kíss?" "Hey, I'm behind you. Want a hug?" (Some autistic people startle easily when touched from behind.) Autistic people might be uncomfortable with certain types of to͠uch and ıntımate, because of sensory issues. To find out what works for them, just ask. Having a clear conversation is easy for many autistic people, and you'll get a clear sense of what they like. Be clear about your own thoughts and feelings. Picking up on body language can be difficult work for an autistic person, and they might not realize what's going on, or guess completely wrong. If you want them to know your feelings, the easiest way is to express them out loud. "I'm sorry I snapped at you. I'm a little on edge today because of my dad coming. You did nothing wrong." "I wish you would have told me earlier about Amy's math meet. I would like to have rearranged my schedule so that I could be there for her." "It hur͘t my feelings when you said that my beard looked like a hipster beard." Be prepared for them to show and experience emotions differently. They may not understand their own feelings (alexithymia), and thus act less emotional than others (e.g. not appearing to grieve when family members dıe, even though they're very upset). This does not mean that they aren't experiencing emotions. Autistic people may react with a problem-solving approach: they see that you are upset, and they are determined to fix it so you can be happy. They may not realize that you don't want advice, just a listening ear. Autistic people may appear emotionless, even when they are experiencing deep emotions.

COMPUTER SENSORS i * "Karen!" Hanna exclaimed, throwing her arms around Karen in a warm embrace. "You made it!" Karen beamed. "Is the husband home?" Hanna asked, glancing around. "In our bedroom," Karen answers. "I don't think you've met!" Hanna followed Karen through the hallway. She'd heard of Karen's husband, Plankton, but had never formally met each other. Inside, Plankton sat on the edge of the bed. "Plankton, this is my friend Hanna," Karen announced, screen sparkling with excitement. Plankton looked up. He hadn't been expecting company, especially not someone so bubbly and vibrant. "Oh, Plankton," Hanna gushed, reaching out to him. She was a hugger, and she didn't hold back. She enveloped him. Plankton stiffened. It was... overwhelming. "It's so nice to finally meet you," Hanna said, her voice thick with sincerity. Hanna, ever the social butterfly, didn't seem to notice his discomfort. She plopped down on the bed beside him, her energy not even slightly dampened. "So, what do you guys have planned for the evening?" she asked, screen bright with excitement. "Well, we were just going to order in and watch a movie," Karen replied, shooting Plankton a knowing smile. She knew he liked his quiet evenings. "A movie night, huh?" Hanna clapped her hands together. "What's the film? I can stay and join!" Plankton wasn't one for sharing his personal space, especially with someone he just met. The bedroom was his sanctuary, a place of solitude where he could escape the world and be himself. Plankton managed a tight smile, his heart sinking. He wasn't in the mood for a romantic comedy, let alone one with Hanna's constant commentary and unbridled laughter. Karen quickly interjected. "Actually, Hanna, Plankton had his heart set on a sci-fi marathon tonight. You know, his usual Friday night routine." "Oh, I totally get it," she said, patting him. Plankton stiffened at her touch, his eye widening slightly. "Oooh, I know just the thing!" she exclaimed, jumping up and talking fast. "Karen, you won't believe this but I've got a DVD of 'Galactic Hearts' in my bag. It's got a bit of everything: romance, action, and a side of existential dread. Perfect for a Friday night in, right?" Plankton sighed inwardly. He knew he'd have to sit through it, if only to keep the peace. "Alright," he said, his voice tight. "Let's give it a go." With a resigned sigh, he trudged out to the kitchen to grab some popcorn and drinks. When he returned, Hanna had already claimed the spot beside him, leaving him no choice but to sit next to her, so he did, for Karen. The movie started, and Hanna was immediately engrossed, laughing and gasping at all the right moments. Plankton, on the other hand, felt like he was in an alien world of his own. Every time the romantic tension on screen built up, she would lean over and whisper something to Karen, who would giggle in response. The constant movement and noise were making his skin crawl. As the film went on, Hanna grew more and more absorbed in the love story unfolding before them. At one particularly dramatic scene, she reached over and grabbed Plankton's arm. "Oh, isn't this just the most romantic thing you've ever seen?" She gave him a squeeze not realizing the discomfort she was causing him. "Look at those stars," she whispered leaning closer. "It's just like they're reaching out to each other, isn't it?" Plankton shifted. He'd never been one for public displays of affection, and Hanna's affection was uncharted territory. He gently extracted his hand, placing it awkwardly on his lap. "I s'pose," he murmured, trying to keep his voice neutral. time she leaned in to whisper something to Karen, she brushed against him, sending a shiver down his spine. The movie's soundtrack swelled with a sappy love theme, and Hanna threw her arm around both their shoulders. Plankton stiffened. The room felt suddenly too warm, too small. He'd never been one for affection, especially not from someone he'd just met, and Hanna's touch was suffocating him. Her arm remained draped around his shoulders, her grip tightening every time the couple on-screen shared a tender moment. He tried to focus on the plot, but it was difficult with Hanna's sudden exclamations and loud sighs punctuating the silence. Karen seemed to be enjoying it, though, and he didn't want to spoil the evening. So, he sat, endured, and waited for the credits to roll. As the movie progressed, Hanna grew bolder with her displays of affection. She'd lean in close, her shoulder pressing into his, and whisper her predictions for the plot. He glanced at Karen, hoping for a reprieve, but she was caught up in the moment. Plankton sighed and turned back to the movie, trying to ignore the heat building in him. Hanna's hand found its way to Plankton's shoulder again. This time, she didn't let go. He cleared his throat, trying to subtly shift his body away from her touch, but she either didn't notice or didn't care. He took a deep breath, trying to ignore the weight of her arm and the way she kept brushing against him. He could feel his heart hammering in his chest, begging for the solitude he craved. Hanna let out a contented sigh, her grip on Plankton's shoulder tightening involuntarily. He flinched, and she finally looked at him, her eyes wide with surprise. "What's wrong?" she asked, her voice full of concern. "It's nothing," Plankton said, his voice tight. Hanna looked at him. "Oh, I get it," she said, her hand moving from his shoulder to give his knee a comforting pat. "Sometimes romantic scenes can be too much, huh?" Plankton nodded stiffly. Then, Hanna leaned over and whispered, "You know Plankton you're not so bad for a guy who pretends not to like romance." She elbows him, her touch playful and teasing. Plankton's eye widened, his heart racing faster than the spaceship on the screen. He tried to laugh it off, his voice strained. He tried to keep his expression neutral. She leaned in closer, her arm now looped around his. "I think you're secretly a softy." Plankton's discomfort grew. He swallowed hard, his eye darting to Karen for help, but she was too lost in the film to notice his distress. He cleared his throat again, trying to be subtle, but they're oblivious. Karen looked over at her husband, her smile fading slightly as she noticed his rigid posture. She knew he wasn't a fan of the film, but she didn't realize Hanna's personality was making him so uncomfortable. Hanna jumped up from the couch. "Oh my gosh, you guys," she exclaimed a little too loud, her screen bright with excitement. "That was the best movie ever!" Her enthusiasm was infectious, and Karen couldn't help but laugh. "You really liked it?" she asked, hoping to lighten the mood. "Liked it?" Hanna repeated, her voice incredulous. "I'm in love with it!!" Her exuberance was palpable, but Plankton remained silent. He felt a mix of relief that the movie was over and dread for whatever might come next. Hanna, noticing his lack of response, turned to him with a grin. "What did you think, Plankton?" Plankton felt uncomfortable under her gaze. "It's just not really my genre," he said, his voice a touch defensive. Hanna's smile didn't falter. "Oh, come on," she said, nudging him playfully. "Admit it, you were totally rooting for them in the end." "Oh, I was," Plankton said, his voice devoid of enthusiasm. "I was just hoping the asteroid might hit the spaceship first." Karen couldn't help but laugh, seeing the playful banter between her friend and her husband. "Ok ok," she said, standing up and stretching. "I think we've had enough romance for one night. How about we switch gears and play a board game?" Hanna bounced, her energy unflagging. "Perfect! What do you have?" Plankton started to feel dizzy. "I'll grab something," he said, his voice tight. He needed to get away, to regain some semblance of control over the situation. He retreated to the bedroom, going on his bed. ** ᴬˢ ᵃ ⁿᵉᵘʳᵒᵈⁱᵛᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᵗ ʷʳⁱᵗᵉʳ ᴵ ᵈᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗⁱᵍᵐᵃᵗⁱᶻᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʸᵖᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵈⁱˢᵃᵇⁱˡⁱᵗʸ ⁿᵒʳ ᶜᵒᵐᵐᵘⁿⁱᵗʸ ᵃˢ ᵃ ʷʰᵒˡᵉ‧ ᔆᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ⸴ ᴵ ᵘˢᵉ ᵃⁿ ᴬᴵ ᵍᵉⁿᵉʳᵃᵗᵒʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʷᵉᵃᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʳⁱᵗⁱⁿᵍ *

https://psychcentral.com/autism/conditions-associated-with-autism

https://rockymountainada.org/news/blog/5-tips-managing-sensory-needs-healthcare-settings

KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY i (Autistic author) Sheldon Plankton's new safety vault was a masterstroke that would leave even the great Squidward Tentacles in awe. Plankton's nefarious eye lit up with greed as he surveyed his latest invention. The vault, though not as grandiose as the Krabby Patty's secret formula, was a testament to his own ingenuity. It was a gleaming, metal cube, to store his most precious possessions: his beloved Krabby Patty copies. He had spent weeks crafting it, ensuring that not even the most persistent of jellyfish could breach its impenetrable exterior. Even his robotic computer wife Karen is impressed! The safety vault was positioned in the most secure corner of the Chum Bucket, surrounded by a moat of acid and a minefield of his own design. Plankton felt a thrill of excitement as he approached it, tingling with anticipation. But his excitement was his downfall, as his enthusiasm caused him to trip over a stray piece of wire, sending his body hurtling towards the unyielding metal structure. With a resounding thump, his skull connected with the vault's cold, unforgiving surface. The room spun around him briefly before everything faded to black. His tiny body slumped to the floor as Karen helplessly watched. "Plankton, are you okay?" she asked, her voice a robotic echo in the otherwise silent room. But there was no response, only his limp body lying on the floor. Her diagnostic systems quickly determined that despite the impact, his vital signs were stable. "Plankton, wake up!" she called out, shaking him gently. But his eye remained closed, and his body motionless. Plankton was out cold, unresponsive. With a sigh, Karen knew that she had to take matters into her own robotic hands. She carefully picked him up and placed him on a nearby chair. His head lolled to the side. He still didn't wake up, but at least he was alive. "Wake up, my dear," she cooed. Her concern grew as she realized he wasn't responding to her voice commands. Plankton had always been a lightweight when it came to bumps on the head, but this was unusual. With a whirring sound, Karen engaged her medical protocols and scanned Plankton with a glowing eye beam. The readings confirmed his condition: acquired Autism. "Oh dear," she murmured, more to herself. She carefully set him down on the couch, ensuring he was comfortable. "Plankton," she called out again, this time with a touch of urgency. "You must wake up!" But his body remained still, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. "Plankton, can you hear me?" she asked, her voice now tinged with worry. He didn't respond. She tried a different approach, speaking in a soothing tone that she knew he liked. "Mr. Krabs will never know about this, I promise." His favorite topic of the Krabby Patty formula didn't even stir a reaction. The room remained eerily silent, save for the faint hiss of his breathing and the steady hum of her processors. Karen felt a rare sense of helplessness, her hands hovering over his unresponsive form. She had seen Plankton in many scrapes before, but this was different. Autism was something she hadn't accounted for in her programming. Her thoughts raced as she tried to recall any information on the condition. It was a spectrum, she knew. As she waited for a response, Plankton's eyelid began to twitch. Slowly, his eye opened, focusing on the ceiling. Karen's heart leaped in hope. But when he finally managed to look at her, his gaze was unusually blank. "Karen," he mumbled, his voice slurred. "What happened?" Karen's circuits buzzed with relief. "You had a bit of an accident, dear. You bumped your head," she explained calmly. But Plankton's response was not what she expected. He just stared at her, repeating her words. "Accident. Bumped head." His voice was flat, lacking the usual sneer and cunning tone that accompanied his schemes. Her relief quickly turned to concern. His behavior was unlike anything she had seen in their long history of working together. Karen knew that autism was a complex condition, affecting each individual differently. But the way Plankton repeated her words, with no inflection or understanding, was unsettling. The autism is irreversible. "Plankton you have autism now.." The room's silence grew heavier, filled with the weight of the unspoken. Plankton's eye flitted around the room, not focusing on anything in particular. Karen watched him, her mind racing through potential scenarios. How would this change their dynamic? How would he cope with the world? "What's autism?" Plankton asked, his voice still devoid of its usual sharpness. Karen paused, trying to find the simplest way to explain something so complex. "It's a condition, Plankton. It means your brain works a bit differently now," she began. "You might repeat things, or find social situations difficult to understand. It's okay, though. We'll figure this out together." Plankton blinked at her, the wheels in his head visibly turning. "Different?" he echoed. "How different?" Karen took a deep breath, her synthetic skin mimicking a human sigh. "Well, it can vary greatly, but for you, it might mean that some things will be harder to understand, and others may become obessions." Plankton's eye focused on her, his curiosity piqued. "Obsessions?" he repeated, his voice still lacking its usual malicious edge. Karen nodded, trying to put a positive spin on the situation. "Yes, but obsessions can be good. You've always been obsessed with the Krabby Patty, and that has driven you to create so many amazing inventions." But Plankton was not listening. His eye had locked onto the gleaming safety vault, and his voice grew steady and intense. "Vault," he murmured. Karen watched as the gears in his mind seemed to click into place. "I'll help you to bed Plankton," Karen says. He repeats her words back to her. "Help to bed." Gently, Karen guides him towards their makeshift living quarters behind the Chum Bucket's lab. His steps are unsteady, his legs moving as if they're not quite his own. "Goodnight, Plankton," she says softly, kissing his forehead. "Goodnight Karen," he murmurs, his voice a mimic of hers. As she pulls the covers over his frail body, his hand shoots out, grabbing hers. "Stay," he says, with the same urgency he used to demand help with his latest schemes. Karen pauses, looking at him with a mix of affection and worry. "I'll be right here," she promises, her voice soothing. She sits on the edge of the bed, her metallic hand in his tiny grip. The silence stretches out between them, filled only with the steady rhythm of Plankton's breathing. Karen's mind whirs with thoughts of their future, her fingers gently stroking the back of his hand. "It's going to be okay," she repeats, as much for herself as for him. Plankton's gaze shifts to meet hers, his expression unreadable. "Okay," he parrots, the word hanging in the air like a question. Karen's circuits whir with a mixture of emotions. She had never felt so protective of him. This newfound vulnerability in his demeanor tugged at her programming, bringing a warmth to her cold metal frame that she couldn't quite comprehend. "You're going to be okay," she reassures him, her voice a soft hum in the quiet room. "We'll figure out what this means for you, and for us." Plankton nods, but his gaze is distant, lost in thoughts she can't quite fathom. As they sit together in the silence, Karen can't help but reflect on the years they've spent scheming and plotting. Despite his single-minded obsession with stealing the Krabby Patty secret formula, he had always had a certain charm, a spark that had kept her by his side. Now, that spark seems to have faded, replaced by a vacant stare. Plankton's grip on her hand tightens, and she squeezes back, trying to convey comfort without words. She wonders what this new chapter in their lives will bring. Will he still be the same Plankton she knows and loves, or will he change in ways she can't predict? Karen destroys the safety vault and both of them are glad to have gotten rid of the vault. Plankton nods in approval. "You want me to tuck you in?" Karen asks. Plankton nods, his eye still glued to the ceiling. "Tuck in." Karen gently takes his hand, helping him. His body stiffens at first, then relaxes into the bed. She pulls the blankets up to his legs, for he remains sitting up. He watches her movements with a curiosity that is almost childlike. Plankton starts to rock back and forth, his legs moving in a rhythmic pattern. It's a behavior Karen has never seen before, but she quickly recognizes it as stimming - a common trait among those with autism. "Is this okay?" she asks. Plankton nods, his rocking increasing slightly in speed. He seems comforted by the shared rhythm, his eye finally closing as he lay down. Karen continues to watch him, his small frame lost in the overly large bed. She knows that this is only the beginning of a new journey, one she's not quite prepared for. But she's a computer. She can adapt. She'll learn and grow with him, just like she has always done.

CHIP OFF THE OLD TALKS vi (Autistic Author) "Plankton," she says firmly, her voice cutting through the tension. "Let's take a breathe." He glares, his antennae vibrating with agitation. But he does as she says, taking a deep, shaky breath. Chip watches him, eyes wide and full of tears. "Chip," Karen says, her voice calm. "Why don't you go to your room and play for a bit?" Chip nods, his eyes never leaving Plankton's face. He slips off the couch, clutching the rock to his chest. But doing so, Chip accidentally touches Plankton when he passes, and Plankton yelps in alarm when Chip brushes his shoulder. "Sorry," Chip whispers. Plankton flinches, his antennae shooting straight up as he jolts back from the contact. "I told you, no touching!" he snaps, his voice a thunderclap in the tense silence. Chip's eyes widen with fear and confusion, his lip quivering as he backs away, holding the rock protectively. "I didn't mean to," he stammers, his voice barely above a whisper. Plankton's antennae wiggle in an exaggerated fashion, his eye rolling dramatically. "Oh, I'm so sorry," he says in a high-pitched mockery of Chip's voice. "I didn't mean to touch you and make everything about me." Karen's face falls, and she knows they've taken a step backward. But she also sees the hurt in Plankton's eye, the pain that he's trying to hide with anger. "Dad," Chip says, quivering. "That's not fair, I..." But Plankton doesn't let him finish. "You know what's not fair?" Plankton spits, his antennae whipping back and forth in fury. "Is having a son who thinks he knows everything about me!" Chip's eyes fill with tears as he stumbles back, clutching the rock tighter. "I just wanted to help," he whispers, his voice breaking. Plankton's in a sarcastic imitation of Chip's movements. "Oh, the great helper," he says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "You think you can just fix me with your questions and your pity?" Chip's eyes fill with hurt as he watches his father mock his innocent concern. Karen feels a mix of anger and sadness, but she knows she must tread carefully. "Daddy," Chip says, his voice shaking as he puts the rock down, "I'm sorry if I made you mad." But Plankton isn't listening. He picks up the rock and with a sudden, violent movement, he throws it against the wall. It shatters into a hundred pieces, the sound echoing through the room. "Son, I’m sorry if I made you mad!” Plankton's sarcastic tone cuts through the silence like a knife, his antennae flailing wildly. Chip flinches at the sudden outburst, his eyes wide with shock. "That's what you want, right?" Plankton continues, his voice rising. "To fix everything? Sorry doesn't cut it," Plankton snaps, his antennae trembling with rage. "No, Dad," Chip says, his voice barely audible, "I just wanted to understand." But Plankton isn't done. "Oh, I'm sorry, little genius," Plankton says, his voice thick with sarcasm. "Is that what you want to hear?" Chip stares at him, his eyes brimming with tears. "No," he whispers. "I just want you to be okay, I love you!" But Plankton's anger is a living, breathing thing, swirling around him like a storm. "Love isn't enough, Chip!" Plankton yells, his antennae quivering with rage. "You can't just love away my problems! You don't get to decide that for me!" Karen's heart is in her throat, but she forces herself to speak calmly. "Plankton, please," she says, her voice shaking. "You're scaring him." Chip nods. “I just…” But Plankton's fury is unrelenting. "You think a simple game of 'I love you' is going to make everything okay?" Plankton interrupts, his voice a roar that shakes the walls of their tiny underwater home. Chip's eyes fill with confusion, and he takes a step backward, trembling. "But, Dad," he whispers. "But nothing!" Plankton's antennae whip around, and he stands, his whole body vibrating with anger. "You think you can fix me? You think you can just love me and everything will be fine?" Karen tries to interject, but Plankton's rage is like a tidal wave, crashing over everything in its path. "You think you gotta have the last word just to show how great and special you are Chip. But in the real world No means No so BACK OFF." Chip's eyes widen, and he stumbles backward, the shattered rock on the floor a stark reminder of Plankton's outburst. "Daddy," he whispers, his voice trembling. Plankton's antennae only stiffen further. "I'm sorry, Chip," Karen says, her voice a thread of calm in the storm. "Let's go to your room, okay?" Chip nods, his eyes never leaving Plankton, who's still standing with his antennae flailing. Karen can see the hurt in her son's gaze, and it breaks her heart. She helps him off the couch, and together, they navigate the shards of rock on the floor. As they leave the room, Karen casts a sorrowful glance at Plankton, who's now slumped into the couch, his antennae drooping. The anger seems to have drained out of him, leaving behind a tired, defeated creature. In Chip's room, Karen helps her son sit on the bed, the soft glow from the glowfish lamp casting a warm light on his tear-stained face. She sits beside him, her hand gently rubbing his back in comforting circles. "You didn't do anything wrong, sweetie," she whispers. "Daddy just has a hard time with his feelings." Chip's eyes are glued to the floor, his chest heaving with quiet sobs. "But why?" he asks, his voice cracking. Karen takes a deep breath, trying to find the right words. "Sometimes, when people are upset or scared, they don't know how to show it," she says gently. "Daddy's just trying to deal with his own stuff, and it can be hard for him to talk about." Chip nods, his eyes still on the floor. "But why does he have to get so mad?" he asks, his voice trembling. "It's not that he's mad at you," she says softly. "It's just that he doesn't know how to express himself without getting upset." "But why?" Chip asks, his voice muffled by the pillow he's buried his face in. Karen takes a deep breath, her eyes misting over. "Daddy's brain works differently, Chip," she says, her voice cracking. "Sometimes, when we're sad or scared, we get mad instead." Chip lifts his head, his eyes red and wet. "But why doesn't he just tell me he loves me?" he asks, his voice a broken whisper. Karen sighs, sad but understanding. "Some people show love in different ways," she says. "Daddy might not say it out loud, but he does it every day. Like when he takes you on adventures or when he makes you laugh." "But why can't he just say it?" he asks. Karen's throat tightens. "Sometimes, it's hard for Daddy to say the words," she explains gently. "But that doesn't mean he doesn't feel it." Chip sniffles, his eyes never leaving hers. "But why can't he just tell me?" Karen sighs, her hand still rubbing soothing circles on his back. "It's complicated," she says. "Daddy's brain is like a treasure chest with lots of locks. Some days, the right words just can't find the key." Chip looks at her, his eyes searching for a simple truth amidst the complexity. "But I want him to feel happy with me," he murmurs. Karen nods, her voice soft. "And he is, sweetie," she says. "Just in his own way." They sit in silence for a moment. Then Karen stands, her movements slow and deliberate. "Let's leave Daddy alone for now," she suggests. "He needs some space to sort through his feelings." Chip nods, his eyes still glistening with unshed tears. Together, they leave the room, closing the door softly behind them. As they walk down the corridor, Karen's thoughts are a tumult of emotions. She's angry at Plankton for his outburst, but she also understands his pain. He's been dealing with his condition alone for so long, and now he's forced to confront it with their son's innocent curiosity. They enter the living room, and she can see Plankton sitting on the couch, his antennae drooping. He looks up as they come in, his expression a mix of guilt and defiance. Karen takes a deep breath, trying to keep her own emotions in check. "Why don't we watch a movie?" she suggests, her voice gentle. "Something to help us relax?" Chip nods, still sniffling, and Plankton's antennae perk up slightly. It's a small victory, but it's something. They settle on the couch, Chip curled up in the middle with a blanket. Karen chooses a movie they've watched together before, a silent gesture of comfort and familiarity. Plankton's eye is on the screen, but his antennae are still twitching with leftover anger.

A JOURNEY TO AUTISM i (Autistic author) "I've waited long enough, I better go check..." Karen says to herself. Sheldon Plankton, her husband, left earlier to attempt to steal a krabby patty but he hasn't returned. Worried, she makes her way to the restaurant across the street. Meanwhile, Mr. Krabs grabbed a fry pan and swung it at Plankton. The sound of metal hitting flesh echoed through the restaurant, and Plankton crumpled to the ground. Mr. Krabs, his eyes bulging with triumph, looked down at the tiny, unconscious form of his arch-nemesis. "Gotcha, ya tiny troublemaker!" he cackled, waving the fry pan above his head like a trophy. The Krabby Patty recipe remained safe, but Plankton's not. Karen heard the thud from the hit and went in. Her heart skipped a beat as she saw Plankton sprawled out on the floor, unmoving. She rushed over. "Plankton!" Karen gasped, her voice trembling with fear as she knelt beside his tiny frame. He was out cold. She gently touched his arm, hoping for a response, but there was none. The fry pan lay a few inches from his crumpled body, a silent testament to the battle that had just taken place. The restaurant's usual chaos was replaced with a tense silence that seemed to thicken the air. Mr. Krabs, still clutching the pan, looked at Karen with a mix of pride and wariness. His victory over Plankton was clear, but he knew that this wasn't the end of the feud between them. Karen's eyes filled with tears as she picked up her husband, cradling his tiny body in her palm. His antennas were limp, and his single eye was closed. She clutched him tightly, desperately. "Wake up, Plankton," she whispered, her voice filled with urgency as she lightly shook. But Plankton remained unresponsive, his tiny body as lifeless as the seaweed that clung to the ocean floor. A cold fear gripped Karen's heart, turning her blood to ice. She had seen her husband in many predicaments, but never like this. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she gently cradled him, his normally active form now still and heavy in her hand. The Krabby Patty recipe was the last thing on her mind; all she could think about was Plankton and the love they shared. The warmth of his body was fading, and with it, her hope. "I'm sorry," Mr. Krabs said. "This is just business." Karen's gaze snapped up, anger replacing fear. "This isn't just business, it's personal!" she exclaimed, her voice echoing through the restaurant. "You can't keep doing this to him!" Mr. Krabs took a step back, his claws clutching the fry pan tighter. "I didn't mean for it to go this far," he mumbled, his proud stance wavering. Ignoring his words, Karen rushed to the door, cradling Plankton in her hand. She had to get him to the hospital. The local doctor was known to help all creatures, regardless of their intentions. The Bikini Bottom Hospital was the only place she could think of. The emergency room was a flurry of activity, with fish and crustaceans of all shapes and sizes waiting for their turn. The bright, sterile lights reflected off the polished floors, and the smell of disinfectant stung her nostrils as she raced in. She didn't care about the stares or the whispers that followed them; all she cared about was getting Plankton the help he needed. The receptionist, a sluggish sea star, barely looked up from her crossword puzzle. "Name?" she drawled. "Plankton," Karen replied, her voice shaking with urgency. "He's been attacked." The sea star's eyes widened, and she dropped her pencil. "Oh my!" she exclaimed before hitting a large, red button that read "Emergency." Immediately, the doors to the back swung open, and a team of medical professionals rushed out. The doctor, a stern-looking octopus named Dr. Manowar, took Plankton from Karen's trembling hand. "What happened?" he asks, tentacles moving swiftly to check for vitals. "Mr. Krabs...he hit him with a fry pan," Karen managed to say between sobs. The doctor's expression softened, his tentacles moving more gently. "Bring him to room three, we'll take care of him," he instructed the nurse, a concerned look crossing his face as he examined the unconscious Plankton. Karen followed closely, her heart racing as the medical team whisked Plankton away into the depths of the hospital. The stark white walls and the beeping of machines filled her with dread, but she held onto the hope that Dr. Manowar could save him. The doctor's tentacles worked swiftly, hooking up monitors and administering a series of tests. Karen watched, her own breaths synchronizing with the rhythmic beeps. The hospital room was small, the walls lined with various medical instruments. The sterile smell was overpowering, but she focused on Plankton, willing his tiny body to stir. Dr. Manowar muttered under his breath, his expression a mask of concentration. "Karen," he said, turning to face her, his tentacles stilled. "I need to run some more tests, but it doesn't look good. Your husband has a severe concussion and potential internal damage." Her heart dropped, and she felt like the ocean had swallowed her whole. "What...what can you do?" she asked, desperation clinging to every word. The doctor's expression remained steady, his eyes never leaving hers. "We'll do everything we can. But you should prepare for the worst." Karen felt a wave of nausea wash over her. She couldn't lose Plankton. He was her partner in crime, her confidant, her soulmate. "No," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "You can't give up on him." The doctor nodded gravely. "I understand how you feel, but we must be realistic. Let's give him some time." The nurse led Karen to a small waiting area outside the room, where she slumped into a chair. The clock on the wall ticked away the minutes, each second feeling like an eternity. The muffled sounds of the hospital - the beeping machines, the rush of footsteps, the hushed whispers - only served to amplify the deafening silence in her heart. "Your husband is a miracle. The tests came back, and his injuries are less severe than we initially thought." Karen's eyes widened in disbelief, then flooded with relief. "What does that mean?" Dr. Manowar's tentacles unfurled as he spoke. "It means we can treat his injuries, but he'll need to rest for some time. However, during our examination, we noticed some unusual patterns in his behavior and brain activity." Karen felt a sudden knot in her stomach. "What do you mean?" "It seems that during the impact, Plankton's brain has undergone a significant change. He's showing symptoms consistent with a condition known as acquired Autism." Dr. Manowar explained, his tentacles folding into a comforting gesture. Karen felt the world spin around her. "Autism?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper. "What does that mean for him?" Dr. Manowar sighed, his tentacles waving gently. "It means his interactions and responses to his environment may be different now. It's permanently irreversible but you can help by creating a calm environment." Karen nodded, trying to digest the information. "What can I do?" Her voice was small, trembling. The doctor's eyes softened. "Give him space, patience, and support. It'll be a journey of learning for both of you." The doctor's words hung in the air like a fog, thick and impenetrable. Karen felt a weight settle in her chest, heavier than any she had ever known. The thought of Plankton being different, of not knowing how to communicate with the person she loved most, was almost too much to bear. But she swallowed her fear and nodded, determined to do whatever it took to help him. "Thank you, Dr. Manowar," she whispered, her voice hoarse with emotion. "We'll get through this." The doctor nodded solemnly before excusing himself to attend to other patients. Karen was left alone with her thoughts, the beeping of the machines the only company. She took Plankton's hand in hers, feeling the coolness of his skin against her own. "Plankton," she whispered, her voice shaking. "You're going to be okay." She wasn't sure if he could hear her, but she needed to say it. To believe it. To feel the words in the air between them. "I know you can't understand me right now," she continued, her voice barely above the steady beep of the monitors. "But I'm here. And I'll always be here for you." Her eyes searched the room for anything that might bring comfort, but all she found was the cold reality of hospital life. "When you wake up," she whispered, squeezing his hand slightly, "things might be different. But that's okay. We'll figure it out together." The words sounded hollow in the small, sterile room, but she hoped they would reach him somehow. As the hours passed, Karen's mind raced with questions. How would this change their lives? Could they still scheme together? Would he even remember their love for each other? She pushed the thoughts aside, focusing instead on the gentle rise and fall of his chest, a sign that he was still fighting. Suddenly, Plankton's single eye flitted open, looking around the room with a dazed expression. "Karen?" he croaked, his voice weak and unsteady. "Plankton!" she exclaimed, her voice a mix of relief and hope. He was awake! "I'm here, my love."