Constipation

Now that I have your attention with my indelicate post title, let me explain that cancer patients are universally beset with either constipation or diarrhea.  Dang, I can never spell the D word right!  Thank you spell-check!

Constipation usually is a result of trying not to live in pain.  It seems most painkillers will cause it.  I try to eat a lot of fruit and thanks to some lovely ladies this week who sent me an Edible Arrangement, I had some FANTASTIC fruit to eat.  J  But even lots of fruit doesn’t cut it sometimes.  And thus, it’s on to Phillip’s Milk of Magnesia.  I remember a Gallagher bit about constipation.  He was making fun of the products that promise ‘no cramping’ ‘stool softening’, etc.  Gallagher said that when he is constipated, he wants a BOMB!  Amen brother.

Now, let’s get past that fascinating subject and on to a strange time in the hospital at the New Year.  I had several visitors, amazingly all at the same time.  One of the hospital’s admins came to see me, as well.  She was perturbed because I had no religion listed on my paperwork.  I just find it easier to leave it blank than to have to explain that just because I am pagan, I don’t worship your devil-figure.

So, she just came right out and asked me, and being under the influence of some interesting drugs, I told her, “I’m a pagan.”  You would have thought I told her I was a commie baby eater!  She got pale, started to back from the room, when one of my visitors told her, “But she’s a GOOD one!”  Oh my gosh, I cracked up.  Anyway, we never saw THAT admin person again.

 I’ve always thought that spirituality should be between you and your chosen deities.  You can have a more personal relationship and communication that way.  But I understand the need for a community-based spirituality.  You have like-minded people, willing to support you, and give you comfort in troubling times.  My sister is a Christian Minister, and a more loving woman you will never find.  She writes incredible prayers, and I know how much she loves me.

In the books about coping that I am reading, there is an emphasis on spirituality being a boon to your coping mechanism.  I find it soothing to write prayers.  As a pagan, you are free to express your devotions in the most simple or the most elaborate means.  I like to keep it simple.  Especially since the brain tumors. :D

Love and hugs to all!