A dreadful similarity

Inspiration

By Charles Towne

Historically, certain ethnic people abandoned those of their people that were too old or feeble to care for themselves.

Though seemingly cruel and indifferent I can understand this treatment that seems to have been practiced by certain indigenous people.

In the far north family members were occasionally abandoned in the wilderness due to the fact that if their care fell to a relatively small tribal group that care could create a burden of survival for all involved.

During the cold of the winter, some of the northern tribes were known to take the elderly and infirm out into the wilderness and let the cold solve the problem.

Today, in modern society, as difficult as it might be to accept the truth of the matter, abandonment of the sick and infirm is still practiced.

You might well ask how can I make such an insensitive statement?

Well, as Dezi Arnez would say, let me “splain” by using an illustration.

My sweetheart, Nancy, by the testimony of her family, was always a good wife and a wonderful mama, then she became ill with M.S., and time passed. Then, after several years, Nanny began slowly showing signs of another disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a nightmare affliction causing confusion and bewilderment to all involved.

Due to the disease Nan’s family, mother, father, and son abandoned her. They didn’t know how to cope with the quirks of the disease.

Over nearly twenty years I have learned.

I am still learning.

Charles Towne is first and foremost a Christian. An octogenarian, author, journalist, wildlife photographer, naturalist, caregiver, and survivor, his life has been and continues to be, a never-ending adventure filled with possibilities never imagined. He has adopted the philosophy that to Live fully, laugh uproariously, love passionately, and learn like there is no tomorrow, is a formula for a long and joy-filled life.