Yesterday’s maxim (44) was written out of sympathy with people struggling with health issues - neck down and neck up.
Yesterday, it took two adults to get me off the bathroom floor and to a bed. I didn’t fall, I just sort of gave up trying to stand at the sink. It was an episode; I am okayish now. I think my MS was providing me a trailer of what my future looks like. And I suspect my walking days are numbered. I do not mention this to provoke pity. I am not pulling out a violin. As it was happening, I was like, “Huh, I wonder why this is happening.” I don’t care—I really don’t.
However, I talk to disabled students all the time—on three different campuses—and my heart breaks and it makes me angry. Because, they’re some of the loveliest people you could ever meet. Sociopaths, the avaricious, the powerful, and the pathologically self-centered: they seem to be god’s chosen people. They materially get what they want, and there seems to be two middle fingers for everyone else—including and especially these kind and gentle students of whom I speak.
But do not pity them and do not feel sorry for them: they are strong and tough as they come. I just wish they didn’t have to be.
That said, if you are struggling with anything, remember: it does not define you, it is not cause for embarrassment, and it is not your fault.
