Previously on as The Diabetic World Turns (spins)
Lady X had inadvertently singled me out.
So I forgave Lady X for her insensitivity because why would I let anger ruin my day? She does not have diabetes and doesn’t understand what it’s like for me – and never will.
Forward to present time April 8th, 2011 at 1:15 PM and 20.5 seconds.
My work
A friend who we will call Lady J, the arch nemesis of Lady X, had a birthday the day before. At our weekly staff meeting, Lady J brought in bagels with some various things to smear on them. Considering it was her birthday, it was a very gracious gesture on her part.
45 minutes prior, I was heading into a staff meeting when another co-worker who just found out it was Lady J’s Birthday ran out to get a cake.
Back to the present: we all sing “Happy Birthday” as the cake is carried into the room. Somehow Lady X ends up with her hands on the cake. So she is cutting pieces for everyone and is passing them around.
Don’t read ahead. It will be here soon enough.
She looks at me and pauses for a second. Lady X says, “Should I cut you a small piece?” I see her, and I am about to say no when the most surprising thing happened.
She corrected herself and said, “Wait! I should be asking you what size piece would you like.” I nearly fell out of my seat. After working for two years with Lady X, she finally got it.
I just replied, “Thanks. I will have a regular size piece,” which Lady X cut and then handed the plate to me with a pleasant smile on her face.
Bet you didn’t see this one coming! Well, neither did I but I am jubilant to see she is learning that I can handle my issues and is respecting my diabetes and me.
In the end, all “diabetic police” mean well but they don’t realize the damage they can do on many levels But I have to say – they can learn.
To get help or for more information on Diabetes-Focused Psychotherapy go to Eliot’s website or set up a free 30-minute phone consultation.
Eliot LeBow, LCSW, CDE, is a diabetes-focused psychotherapist. His private practice, located in New York City and is also available via Skype. LeBow, who has been living with type 1 diabetes since 1977, treats the many diverse cognitive, behavioral, and emotional needs of people living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Medical Disclaimer:
All the advice included in this blog is therapeutic in nature and should not be considered medical advice. Before making any changes to your diabetes maintenance program, please consult with your primary physician or endocrinologist.
It is very frightening for others who have a little knowledge but don’t know how you manage yourself.
I have been Type 2 since 15/2/16 & had my first hyper. My diabetic bro advised me to sort this out but since then hubby been ‘advising’ me. I know this feels to him that he is helping me but in fact it makes me feel as though I am being watched. I have just sorted my Dad out with this & now it’s starting again all because he is ‘worried about me’.
I help couples living with diabetes figure out how to provide healthy support. If you feel you would benefit from couples diabetes education please reach out here: http://diabetictalks.com/potential-clients.html