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This entry is a little late in arriving. Much preoccupation with the physical world is my only excuse. Yesterday, Attila and I sat in front of the television set watching the images of the earthquake southwest of Seattle, Washington, USA. Only one person died, 28 were reported injured at that point. Someone we know flew to Seattle on Tuesday to visit her children; we assume she is safe. Apparently, stronger earthquakes have been felt on the West Coast of North America. This quake measured 6.8 on the Richter Scale. That seems quite strong enough to me. Images continue to arrive, portraying the human distress that has resulted from the flooding in Mozambique. These situations involve an element of human solidarity in the face of overwhelming non-human forces. I have less fear of natural disasters than I do of human force and violence. The former involves human cooperation, the latter a disintegration of humane concern for others.
Some experiences offer opportunities for growth. Such an adventure is mine this week. I will undergo a colonoscopy. Since family members have died of colon cancer, screening for problems seems well advised. I have been dreading the procedure. The last time I experienced this degree of fear was before giving birth. The rewards of childbirth tempered that fear. The rewards of a colonoscopy are somewhat obtuse. I will need to restrict my diet to fluids for twenty-four hours before the test. In addition, the evening before the test, I am required to drink two small bottles of a clear liquid with a mission. My conscience will not be my only clear element. It does not bear thinking about really. I have had need to call the hospital for advice on preparing for the challenge. I wonder about the hospital staff who administer this test day after day. They seem quite friendly and happy in their work. Perhaps the knowledge that one is saving lives sweetens an otherwise unspeakable occupation. I prefer this theory to the one that hints at masochism. |
RECIPES :: Cast Worldly Distractions  Some cloud, some sunshine. By the Easy Chair The Telling by Ursula LeGuin Airwaves Chopin Piano Concertos Nos. 1&2 Budapest Symphony Orchestra |
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