July 15, 2024

For the vast majority of human experience in all places and times, people recognized that the physical and spiritual are intertwined. Physical existence was infused with a spiritual reality as well. People, families, and the universe weren’t just collections of matter. There was a spiritual reality to everything.

Indeed, as a Christian I believe there is more than just the physical world. The universe is sacramental and reflects the glory of God. And importantly for our purposes, the body and soul are a unity, and both are good. We are made in the image of God. We are not biochemical automatons that can be adjusted on demand.

This simple belief is at odds with the dualism and materialism that is pervasive in modern western society.

Here is another simple belief I want to share:

It is natural and good for people to educate themselves about their bodies and pathways to healing.

Often people are actively discouraged from attempting to heal themselves and their loved ones. At worst, they are openly shamed for even trying. Instead we are told: “Ask your doctor”.

I want to acknowledge right now that many people do not have access to a doctor. The phrase “your doctor” is meaningless for a hefty portion of American society. I have spoken to too many women who can’t get a medical appointment or can’t find what is termed a “provider”. As a military spouse, I have spent years trying to figure out how to make medical appointments for myself and my children. We are “new patients”, and in some places there are almost no providers accepting new patients.

Then, people who don’t have doctors, providers, or insurance despite all their best efforts are ridiculed when they have no choice but to go to the ER. I’ve had this experience too. No one deserves this.

For anyone who may be in this situation, I acknowledge your pain, fear, and frustration.

Further Reading

“Half of U.S. military bases in the country are in ‘health care deserts’ ” NPR. June 17, 2024.