Traffic is flying past me on the busy highways. What’s the urgency when we are supposed to be sitting on our sofas? People are willing to take risks whether driving or interacting. Parties, travel, get togethers show that many are ignoring recommendations. Why? We are weary and change isn’t coming fast enough- even though today’s approval by FDA (thank you Chief Steve Hahn, MD also a radiation oncologist) happened at warp speed.
Beatrice was in today for a check up and is detailing her own plans. “Hey Doc, I’m 80 years old. I have cancer and they tell me to stop living for my own good! How do people think I got to be this old? It sure wasn’t by being a wimp. Damn if I’m gonna sit out this Christmas- it may be my last!” I remind her, “Beatrice, you are at a high risk”. She smirks, “Yeah so’s driving in Jacksonville!” True.
Covid really complicates things in the center and patience is required. But for Beatrice I give in, “Go live your life. Wash your hands, wear a mask and don’t engage too much”. She pretends she hasn’t heard me, “What? don’t drink too much?” When did we get to the point when we allowed others to decide how we live- not for the first few weeks or months, but almost a year now! After I describe how to be safe and try to stay outdoors, I need to consider adding, “Please live your life and if it is shorter because of your freedom of choice accept that”.
Beatrice teaches me in her senior wisdom. “Doc, everyone cannot be saved, not from the cancer or an infection. You can just do your best and we do ours, but at least we decide”. I don’t push people to get treated for cancer and I don’t punish them if they decline today then come back in a year to get them out of trouble.
Overreach is everywhere and it is not good for us, our children or our country. It has become a virus in itself. Power grab has become infectious. We are sick of being protected from becoming sick. Today I say, honor your free will. You can certainly stay sheltered. If you wish, however, put that ugly Christmas sweater on (along with your mask) and go live your life. We don’t get a second chance and there is no re-gifting time lost.