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For years my weekend has included, when possible, watching the Andrew Marr Show for its political and cultural coverage, and it was a surprise and pleasure yesterday to see him as a guest on his own programme after months away following a stroke. His appearance was brief, but his comments on the legacy of Margaret Thatcher were well articulated and insightful; even more revealing were his comments on his illness, caused by overwork and an over-intensive session on his rowing machine which precipitated a major seizure which almost killed him. The resulting paralysis on one side can with time and physiotherapy be remedied, and he will work again, to the relief of the many who esteem him highly. For him, though, life will never be the same again. This was a man who was at the peak of success – the foremost journalist of his day constantly on radio and television and producing books; someone who kept himself super-fit through running, cycling and gym–type exercise; a likeable family man who exuded self-assurance and also modesty, and who was trusted by his audience. In his recent weeks away other broadcasters have taken over his shows and done well, and while those who know him have been concerned for him and wished him well in his recovery, we have become accustomed to his absence. It does not mean we are not glad of his return, rather it means he is not irreplaceable, and when someone reaches the top of his profession, it is good to be reminded of this sometimes. Andrew Marr seemed to have everything, and worked hard for it, so hard, as he may be the first to admit, that his life was badly out of balance as, perhaps, he tried to be the best in every respect until his body told him to stop. Now he has the chance to resume life more moderately but no less successfully, and indeed he may achieve far more by doing less. And therein lie lessons for us all. Claire Montanaro is a spiritual teacher, channel and blogger with special interest in esoteric philosophy and the world in transition. Loves nature and wildlife. Author of “Spiritual Wisdom”.]]>
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I am a spiritual teacher, channel and writer with a special interest in esoteric philosophy and the world in transition, who loves nature and wildlife. My aim is to help your human and soul journey through spiritual wisdom, spiritual connection and the raising of consciousness.
Such a comforting, emplowering outlook. I do hope Andrew Marr sees it too. X
Thank you, Rebecca. I expect he will see it, and I hope he is not offended!
A similar case in point, Claire, is that of U.S. Senator Mark Kirk. Elected to office in Illinois in 2010, in January 2011 he suffered a stroke while still in his early fifties (something that is medically unusual). After more than a year of a good deal of physical therapy, he's now back in Congress. Already politically moderate compared to many of his GOP Senate colleagues, I recall seeing an email from his office when he returned to the Senate, in which he remarked on just how life-changing his experience had been. This included having to work through his own bouts of melancholia (an old psychological term for depression that is more descriptive in this instance) along with getting some very expert care in Chicago, IL, for his medical condition. What is particularly germane here is that he said in remarks in that email broadcast to his office' subscriber list is that he no longer was as ambitious for awards that seemed so petty to him now.
My own impression is that, as with Andrew Marr, the experience of having a stroke has changed him for the better. And that is where the comparison between Mr. Marr and Senator Kirk is most apt, in my opinion.
Such an interesting parallel, William, thank you.