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Sherman's avatar

Beautiful visualization, gratitude

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Sonya Lazarevic MD, MS's avatar

you're welcome!

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Modern Discontent's avatar

Thank you for sharing Dr. Lazarevic** Edit: I completely mispelled your name! I think I've done it several times I apologize! Talk about being bad with names. 🤦‍♂️

The Damar Hamlin situation was a rather fascinating one. I think it's indicative of fan culture and some idolatry, as it reflects how we view many athletes and actors relative to ourselves. It's why they tend to be used as a representation for many groups including vaccine critics who may perceive any harm done to athletes as being related to the vaccines now.

But even with that, seeing many people having a shared connection and coming together also reminds us of the human spirit and our ability to come together even if we may not agree. The past few years have certainly done a ton of damage to our shared connection with one another, and I don't think we're anywhere near repairing it. But it's also why I find the whole concept of "reconciliation" to also not be a big deal to me, because for those around me I would not want to dwell on those factors if it means that we all stay disconnected and relegate ourselves to online parasocial relationships.

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Sonya Lazarevic MD, MS's avatar

Oh no worries!

Fair point- that's in the mix... agreed athletes can be looked up to in a way that's unhelpful to them or the fan. Idolization lends to surrendering oneself to another, in a 'less-than' sort of way.

I've found it inspiring to watch athletes take a stand with composure and courage on an issue they feel is important to themselves (the political ones tend to place them front and center real fast!). Thats another hot topic (the vax and its effects) which hopefully will clarify with time. I've noticed newspapers like the WSJ publishing bolder articles on the topic. I suppose 'stay tuned' as that unfolds.

I appreciate your comments on shared connection. I believe bridging divides between neighbors, political sides, religious views, etc will take time.... what happened to tolerating a difference of opinion, or encouraging free will and autonomy? if people realize division serves others (and discord leans towards destructive patterns), vs unity/harmony doesnt serve others (but leans towards constructive/uplifting trends) we may collectively shift how we engage our world (at some point I may have to unpack that one!).

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