My Diabetes Information Blogs
Independence
07/11/08
Living Well
July 4 marks the anniversary of our nation’s independence. We celebrate with barbeques and fireworks, and toast the spirit of rugged individualism that is our trademark.
However, I think we with diabetes run the risk of being too consumed with the concepts of independence and the individual. No single individual built the foundation of our freedom. Success was achieved by the unrelenting work of many people untied by the same goal. Essentially, the individual disappeared, allowing for the emergence of a greater force that enacted change. This perspective should be applied to our own care.
I know I am often my own worst enemy. If only I could somehow get out of the way, I might be better off. Yet, at times, I still think that I know my body better than my doctors, and appreciate the uniqueness of its reaction to food and lifestyle on a finer level than any medical degree could. This puts me in the driver’s seat, where I get to steer, and go as fast as I want, and change lanes at will. I am a fool, however, if I don’t allow my medical team to ride shotgun. My primary physician, endocrinologist, ophthalmologist, and nutritionist all have vital roles in my overall care. They are all working with me, so I will succeed in the long run.
Our culture often bestows credit upon people who stand alone with their unique talents. Athletes, celebrities, politicians, or the wealthy are examples. We want to be similarly applauded as an individual, not as a member of a team. But no matter how we try, we cannot separate ourselves from our vast networks of professional and personal support. We are wise to look beyond the glaring limelight and recognize the collective that has created the individual.
I will try to focus less on me in the future, and to remember the adage of the non-existence of “I” in team. Our country did not become this symbol of freedom overnight or through the actions of any one man. Our successful care should be considered under the same circumstances. Donne said, “No man is an island.” We stand, sometimes alone, but with the world as our shadow.
Eric Devine, 30, has lived with type 1 diabetes since he was 12. He lives in upstate New York with his wife and two daughters where he works as a high school English teacher. Devine is an avid writer and is currently seeking publication of two Young Adult novel manuscripts.