In defense of people who choose to die from COVID-19, or anything, in history


If you're like me, and enjoy TikTok, you probably have seen the videos that are very sad, about people who have died from COVID-19, which all follow the same pattern - lots of posts of denial, and anti-vaxxing, and then that person in the hospital with wires and tubes sticking out them, and then dying. And yes, of course, a lot of that is happening, and will continue to happen, but I want to focus on people who are keeping the faith and not hitting the panic button at the last minute. It takes tremendous strength, and people have been doing it as long as there have been people. I'll see if I can explain.

I live in Arizona, and I know that there are a lot of people here in the United States who, for various reasons, would prefer to die than deny their faith. And it could be a religious faith, or it could be just the faith in their convictions. These are the people who will see it through without any medical intervention at all. When they ask for thoughts and prayers, that's all they're asking for. Well, maybe something to ease the pain near the end, but no more.

And no, I'm not being sarcastic here, or asking you to try to figure out a hidden message - it's crystal clear, these are people with the courage of their convictions. And while not all of these people will be strong enough to see it all of the way through to either live or die, and accept that, many will, and as long as they're not hurting anyone, or filling up a hospital bed, I respect them. Of course, people will be hurt by their illness, or passing, but that's always been true, and has nothing to do with the current pandemic.

Now calm down there if you think that I'm comparing this to suicide - I'm not. But speaking for myself, I plan to die with dignity - not anytime soon, but certainly not hooked up to beeping machines, and tubes and wires. I made my wishes known, written and notarized, signed sealed and delivered. I follow my doctor's directions, and I'm vaccinated against COVID-19, but when my old body is ready to rest, I will rest in peace knowing that I've lived a full life, and been honest with myself.

So yes, for my friends who have chosen to defy the 'rona, I will send thoughts and prayers, because that's exactly what they want. I want them to go on living, of course, but I won't be showing up at their door with a ventilator, and twisting their arm.

I can't say that I really understand why people do the things they do, like going bungee-cord jumping, or eating sushi, or sitting all of the way through a cricket match, but if it's important to them, I'll defend their choice. Of course, they can't be doing this while getting in everyone's way, and most of these people know this.

If you really believe, and have the courage of your convictions, and are smart enough to not hurt anyone along the way, I salute you. And I sincerely send you thoughts and prayers.

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