Journal entry by Al Negstad — 19 minutes ago
"The terror of sickness and old age is not merely the terror of the losses one is forced to endure but also the terror of the isolation. As People become aware of the finitude of their life, they do not ask for much. They do not seek more riches. They do not seek more power. They ask only to be permitted, insofar as possible, to keep shaping he story of their life in the world--to make choices and sustain connections to others according to their own priorities." Atul Gawande, Being Mortal, pp 146-7.
Having navigated a year in the land of grief I can see the truth of this statement by Gawande. Even as my life is shaded by the sadness of the absence of presence,I have found meaning in the living out of my choices. There is so much I'd love to tell Joanne about the people whom I see and the things I am doing. But, I am grateful that I have the agency to choose and do so much of what I want. It's not the same as if Joanne were by my side, but, still it is meaningful and satisfying. In many ways connections to others have been enhanced this year for two reasons. First, I can no longer ride Joanne's coattails and must rely on my own initiative, and, second, family and friends have intentionally been more attentive and active in reaching out to me.
This is evidence for my repeated assertion: I am blessed!
Blessings,
Al
Picture: Joanne doing what she loved.
Having navigated a year in the land of grief I can see the truth of this statement by Gawande. Even as my life is shaded by the sadness of the absence of presence,I have found meaning in the living out of my choices. There is so much I'd love to tell Joanne about the people whom I see and the things I am doing. But, I am grateful that I have the agency to choose and do so much of what I want. It's not the same as if Joanne were by my side, but, still it is meaningful and satisfying. In many ways connections to others have been enhanced this year for two reasons. First, I can no longer ride Joanne's coattails and must rely on my own initiative, and, second, family and friends have intentionally been more attentive and active in reaching out to me.
This is evidence for my repeated assertion: I am blessed!
Blessings,
Al
Picture: Joanne doing what she loved.
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