Friday, September 5, 2008

What I Learned from the RNC

Like most "cancer bloggers (Is that what I am)," I try to avoid the political. Just the same, it's no secret that I'm a proud liberal Democrat. I came out with that on my first post in February 2007 when I admitted that it would be easier to make a case for starting a liberal Dem blog than penning yet another "cancer journey" blog.

With that in mind, you may be surprised to learn that this Blue State lib was moved to tears at part of John McCain's nomination acceptance speech. When he described his broken arms, inability to feed himself, and dependence on his fellow prisoners, I lost it. I can't compare my illness to his experience, but I can relate to the feeling of utter helplessness.

And then he spoke the words that I think I've been struggling to find. "I was beginning to learn the limits of my selfish independence." Thank you for those words, Senator McCain. (And I will even refrain from saying anything snarky about the rest of your speech.)

5 comments:

Wendy S. Harpham, MD said...

I, too, was inspired by McCain as I struggle to live as well as possible within the limits imposed by aftereffects of cancer treatment. Here is a recent blog post about living within limits: http://wendyharpham.typepad.com/healthy_survivorship/2008/08/no-left-turns.html

With hope, Wendy

Susan C said...

That's a great article, Dr. Wendy. I'm still trying to find the balance between pushing too much and pushing too little. Thanks for sharing the link.

Nancy said...

I agree with Susan. Great article Wendy and also the poem is superb. It's all so true. Susan, glad you are feeling better and putting on some pounds. I think I found all the pounds you have lost!! Keep on healing... love, n

Anonymous said...

Tip o' the day:
TexMex Trail Mix from Target. Every handful is about a billion calories and it tastes so good. I had to sample for you to make sure I remembered correctly.

Susan C said...

AH, I'm headed for Target tomorrow and will look for that TexMex trail mix. Thanks for the tip!