The Part of Us Which We Do Not Feel

I think everyone has learned at one time or another that pain is an important feedback mechanism. Without it, we would injure ourselves greatly. One of the most destructive symptoms of Hansen's Disease (leprosy) is that body tissues begin to lose sensation. While there is tissue damage from the disease itself, the significant damage and ultimately major necrosis is brought about primarily from incidental or accidental damage. The chronicled evidence demonstrates that affected people attempt 'rid the body' of non-feeling tissues and appendages. This will often happen intentionally by a growing disregard for a part of them for which they do not feel.

It might be just as important to experience various kinds of emotional pain (They don't teach you these things as a kid). At least, it appears true. It isn't ALWAYS so, but often it seems: The strongest people I know, have endured the most hardship; the bravest - the most fears; the kindest - the greatest cruelties; etc. It doesn't seem to make obvious sense - but maybe it really does. Perhaps it sheds a light with which to compare what could be. I wish I understood all of this better.