Sorry if the truth offends you.
I do think there were clear points that I made about
a person with diabetes being able to do whatever
anyone else does.
But I also made the common sense point that one
does need to use some common sense.
It does shatter our egos if we have to admit that
some things are not ideal for us to do.
But, putting other people's lives at risk,
just because we want to prove something, is foolish.
I'm sure there are exceptions to every rule,
and one can find diabetics doing most everything,
including drinking, partying to excess, and let's not
forget, complaining about poor diabetes control.
But, I know that I will never get in the ring with
Mike Tyson, or marry Brittney Spears in Los Vegas,
or anywhere, and I don't feel bad about those things at all
!
I do not think it a question about being limited in terms of what
we are capable of trying. We can try anything, as can
most anyone. But some choices are not good choices.
Many people pointed out reasons why the military might be
a poor choice, and the guy came back with an
equally poor alternative. I do not think it is offensive
to suggest that there are better choices, to explain why,
and to point out at least two possible things that
could work for him.
I think that our society has a problem with the word
can't.
We are told from childhood never to say "I can't".
The real truth is that there are many things that some people
can't do. And, admitting it, puts one ahead of the game,
not behind.
As far as scuba diving goes, I heard a Red Cross swim instructor
promote it to diabetics over 40 years ago at a camp for
children with diabetes, where I got my Jr. Life Saving.
I can also understand the problem that might occur if
one got low while under water, but if someone said
that diabetics should not do that, I would take exception
to that. At the same time, I don't think the Coast Guard
would hire me, and rightfully so.
!
Quitting may very well be for losers. Risking the life of other
people, is a whole different situation. That is what sounds harsh to me.
