I
realized I have been experiencing cognitive dissonance. What is cognitive
dissonance, you ask? This term describes internal conflict as we encounter
a point of view different from our own, and we question our own beliefs. For
example, you have wanted a silver Mercedes, since you were old enough to
drive. You work hard, and you say, "I deserve this."
Your
cell phone rings. Your best friend has cancer, and she gets laid off in 30
days. You place her needs ahead of your own, and you take care of her. The car
holds no value. You make that decision to put your emotional conflict in
balance. Perhaps, you decide to buy that car. Life is short, and you had better
enjoy it. I'm not going to waste your
time, and say that either choice is wrong because that choice is up to
you. Don't put yourself in limbo to
satisfy someone else’s beliefs. Everyone has a purpose. Each of us must determine what that is.
I may
have caused some cognitive dissonance among readers. I want to make it clear that my stance on
stem cell research is not evidence of dissatisfaction in my own life, or in the
lives of my friends with disabilities. I
am very happy with my life, and I am proud to identify as a disabled
person. I am glad to know people, with
disabilities.
The
true nature of my support to GUSU is yet to be determined, but I'll just keep
plugging away, until my role presents itself. I still stand by my initial
reaction to the Symanski story. Everyone deserves more choice in his or her
medical treatment. I’m not going
anywhere, until that happens.
Peace
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