surviving cancer 101: lesson 3

39

The Master views the parts with compassion,
because he understands the whole.
His constant practice is humility.
He doesn't glitter like a jewel
but lets himself be shaped by the Tao,
as rugged and common as stone.


excerpted from Tao Te Ching, Stephen Mitchell translation


3. the importance of amulets and talismans

Who can say how long talismans have been around protecting us? "Pliny was the first to record their use and register the term amulet, meaning "an object that protects a person from trouble"), a close cousin of the talisman which is essentially an object designed to bring good luck to and protect the owner." (Wikipedia). Pliny may have recorded their use but my guess is that humans have been carrying talismans for as long as humans have been running into trouble - since Day 1, in other words. Who knows what was the first thing to frighten us? When we decided things fell into good and evil camps? Did we first use our talismans to ward off carnivores, protect us from each other, prevent the loss of a child? 

I think amulets and talismans are universal - they're in all sorts of cultures - cultures where languages, religions, customs, have no common denominator, no common thread. I think its natural to have superstitions, to think that something can give you that extra edge. I never felt like I needed an edge until I got married, until I found something so precious the thought of losing it would take my breath away. My husband and I started collecting our talismans once we started dating. Our amulets are mostly rocks and shells that just have a lucky feel to them - a shape, a glint, something that makes them stand out. I carry a few of these with me whenever I go into the hospital or go to Houston for tests. They feel good in my hand. Sometimes when I really feel like I need some extra medicine, I'll bring a small ceramic dog we bought from a beggar in a restaurant in Mainz. I have other talismans - from my brother, my stepdaughter, my mom, close friends.

I like having them with me. They humble me and remind me that I'm not alone.