Mortality By Connie Michaelis, Marketing Director I’m reading a brilliant book entitled “Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande, MD. His premise states, “Medicine has triumphed in modern times, transforming birth, injury, and infectious disease from harrowing to manageable. But in the inevitable condition of aging and death, the goals of medicine seem too frequently to run counter to the interest of the human spirit.” This is not an easy read, but a very gripping look at life and death. Through a series of stories about his patients he paints a vivid picture of the dilemma of measuring quality and quantity of life. The dilemma is centuries old. Take time to reread Leo Tolstoy’s novella, “The Death of Ivan Ilyich”. It is the same universal theme concerning the real meaning of life and does one wait until the bitter end to discover what it is all about? As Ivan Ilyich’s health fades, he realizes that his time is limited; his ambition and vanity disappear. He simply wants comfort and companionship. But almost no one understands—not his family, his friends, or the stream of eminent physicians that offer more ‘cures’. Being mortal is the realization and eventual acceptance of the temporal nature of life. No one escapes this truth but most of us live in denial. If one is fortunate to live to old age it offers time to reflect and prepare. Maybe we are not sure what the Promised Land is, but it is promised for sure! Much of what we provide at McCrite is comfortable living along with a compassionate staff. It is a wonderful thing to be surrounded by neighbors and friends that can appreciate your life perspective. Our staff is constantly working at making life sweet and relaxed. Ivan Ilyich may have had no one that understood, but we all understand that life is fragile and precious. Nothing should be taken for granted. When you have questions about Great Living call the experts at McCrite Plaza 785 267 2960.
Posted on: Thu, 18 Dec 2014 19:02:44 +0000