I understand that you're on Medium for a different reason to the reason I am here. I am not here to influence people, to learn to become a writer, to gain support for an idea.

I am here for two reasons. The first is to supplement my $212 social security (pension). The second is a condition of my autism - if I don't write down what is going on inside my head, then it stays there, and I can't get rid of the thought, and I can't think of other things. There's a word for that, but I've forgotten the medical jargon.

I also think you misunderstand why people read. People don't read books, magazines, newspapers, etc. in order to discuss things with the author/writer. They read for their own pleasure, entertainment, and edifcation. I read for a good 5 hours ever day. I most certainly don't read to discuss things with other 'writers.' That's called social networking. Medium is not a social networking site. It is a content writing site. There is a vast difference.

I am truly greatful that you donated $30 to me. However, in the circumstances you need to withdraw it. I had no idea it was a quid pro quo. I would never, never, never accept money under those conditions. My own situation is too precarious. The minute the income from my writing stops. In that instance, I am out on the street.

I gave my daughter your response to me to read. Her first response was, "What, is he 5?" Your expectations are unrealistic, Lee. They are not in touch with the way the world really is. You don't donate to someone because you want something in return. You donate because you want to help them, and there are no strings attached.

Also, the world is a very harsh place. It is why I have had a horrendously difficult life. Two professional psychologists told me in my mid-50s that people with my level of abuse and disability don't survive beyond the age of 25, and that what I had accomplished is nothing short of miraculous. I have spent an entire lifetime on my own, simply trying to survive, pay the rent, pay for food. That's it.

You seem to feel entitled to help and support from other people. You're lucky that you have so much faith in the world. Or maybe it's because you are American, and Americans are taught from the beginning that they're entitled to things.

I was born and bred in Africa - that's a very different cup of tea. There is no place for luxuries in our world. If we can't get up when we're down, we die.

With regard to influence, I don't agree. I am not influenced by anybody. Most people are influenced by the loudest and most frequent voice. The difference in biology between leaders and followers is brain structure. I have the brain structure of a leader. I am not influenced although I do learn all the time.

I also don't attempt to influence other people. I think it's wrong. Nobody has the right to change someone else's mind. They do, however, have the responsibility to read and learn and make the right decisions.

I am truly sorry that there has been this misunderstanding between us. I wish you the very, very best of luck. You are young, and you have the ability. I am sure you can do this.

I wish you well.