I wonder why you project your desires on Ms. Schiavo. I understand people who want to have some power over their lives and see that as a position of strength, but why do you assume that was her position? You assume that others actually have power over their lives. Those who are wise understand that power is an illusion, and some of us even see the realization of powerlessness as an incredible blessing...
However, I find it interesting that you assume that she would want exactly what you now think you want.
I wonder why you project your desires on Ms. Schiavo. I understand people who want to have some power over their lives and see that as a position of strength, but why do you assume that was her position? You assume that others actually have power over their lives. Those who are wise understand that power is an illusion, and some of us even see the realization of powerlessness as an incredible blessing... However, I find it interesting that you assume that she would want exactly what you now think you want.
Good morning, DadsGirl and everyone.
I apologize for not being clearer in my previous posts. I did not intend to project anything onto Mrs. Schiavo; I don't believe I actually did. I do, however, operate from the presumption that everyone would like to have power over their own lives in at least some areas. Every person I have ever known has had that desire. And, yes, I believe that non-disabled people have power over certain areas of their lives that disabled people do not--different areas for different people, of course; I know, for example, that my wife can do some things that I cannot. I understand that not everyone has power in every area of their lives at all times, but I have never known a person who did not believe that having more power, more self-determination, if you will, is better than having less.
With specific reference to Mrs. Schiavo, I read the court documents that determined that she would not want to continue her existence under the circumstances she was then in. That is the basis for my belief that she would have wanted to discontinue life support, bolstered by my own experience and the expressed wishes of others I know. I hope that makes my position clearer
I have to go to an appointment in a few minutes, but will try to return and answer some more posts later. Thanks to you all for your thoughts..