Hi everyone! Thanks for the great comments on the Cancer Doesn't Hurt post. I completely agree that cancer is terrifying -- my mother had it four different times before ultimately dying of it. My ex-boyfriend had a lung removed because of it (and no, he didn't smoke) along with a few rounds of radiation and two rounds of chemotheraphy. Countless friends of mine have suffered, either directly or indirectly from this blight. I agree with Charles -- the pink appliances are a way of "owning" it. And I don't want to own it. As for Mark, I like your ribbon, man! I used to wear a red AIDS ribbon when I worked in an AIDS hospice -- I think it gives people support. And like many people mentioned, I don't like the battle metaphors. So and so is fighting a brave battle with cancer. As opposed to another person who is fighting a cowardly battle with it?! For some reason, the language of cancer is all about fighting and war and winning. Why? Does this make people feel better? Nobody I know feels better for this metaphor because, as Will and Mark pointed out, is death ultimately "losing?" It's not a game of Pacman. As for Heff and Jodi, I always like pink, especially hot pink! Special thanks to my buddy Rob for the sweet compliment on the last few sentences. Check out his brilliant, spiritual, smart work! And for all those who are in the midst of cancer, whether suffering themselves or by loving people who are suffering, my deepest sympathies. I'll be back later today with a new post. Thanks again for reading!
11 comments:
I suppose the battle metaphors somehow are seen as increasing one's anger levels and that ups the fighting instinct. I have no idea whether it has any effect. I've never really thought much about those metaphors until you brought it up here. Interesting thoughts.
Michelle,
I agree with Charles...I think if I had cancer, I would also view it as a battle, even though it would be one against my own body, in a way.
A separate post for comment responses ? Ingenious !
Darling, are you cheating on Sissy Lynn? xoxo
Hey Michelle, Heff and I are recently divorced, so feel free to stop by my blog and give me some love, I am in desperate need of it since Heff cheated on me. Ha. jk
Did you know Jeff Fazio, an adjunct English teacher at MCC's Center Campus. Jeff had been confined to a wheelchair since the age of 17, following an accident. But that didn't stop him from living life with optimism and enthusiasm. He was never without his beloved service dog, Knight.
RIP, dear Jeff. You were a lovely and gentle man.
I was very upset when I wrote the above comment. Sorry I neglected to add that Jeff died on May 10 from complications following surgery.
The battle metaphors may increase the anger levels but aren't the best victories won in peace? Gandhi, Mandela, King thought so.
To anonoymous,
Thanks for letting us know about Jeff. I knew him as an adjunct when I worked at Center and I completely agree -- he was an incredibly sweet, kind, and gentle man. I didn't know he was undergoing surgery and am deeply saddened to learn of his death. I loved his helper dog Knight as well. Will write more about him today on the blog -- again, condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, dear Jeff!
I really believe in positive thoughts within oneself and those around you.The mind is a powerful thing and alot stronger than the body! Thought provoking post, you.
Excellent on the "cowardly battle". I mean really! Do you have any other choice? And is everyone always brave? My Mother I guess I could say faced hers with dignity. Oh dammit, now I don't know what I mean, LOL.
Wil Harrison.com
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