Tuesdays with Morrie

Morrie and Mitch have a very unique relationship. Morrie is able to regain a sense of life though the lessons he teaches to Mitch although he himself is dying. One of Morrie's most important lessons to Mitch is his theory of life and love. Morrie recites a quote by his favorite poet, W. H. Auden, to explain "in the absence of love, there is a void that can be filled only by loving human relationships." All Mitch has to do is listen to what Morrie has to say. He must also show him love and caring during his last few weeks in order to lessen the burden of Morrie's impending death. To me this is also the role of a health care provider. Once the healthcare provider has provided the necessary medicines, and made the patient comfortable, the only thing left to do is to listen. Do not treat the patient as just a patient, they are human beings as well. All people need love and caring in their lives in order to be complete. Problem is many healthcare providers lack this knowledge, or have simple put it to the back of their minds. Simple listening to what someone has to say can brighten their day. That applies to anyone from the age of 2 until 222 or older.

Morrie and Mitch have the "perfect" relationship for health care provider and patient. Although there is nothing Mitch can do to improve Morrie's condition, what he does is enough. Every Tuesday, Mitch brings Morrie a bag of food. Mitch has remembered that second to dancing Morrie's favorite hobby was eating. Remembering small details such as this one, is caring for Morrie. Holding his hand during some of the lessons is also providing Morrie with a sense of love and caring. Without Love life would cease to exist. Love is what motivates people to live. Once there is no love life will perish. For a patient love is a valuable commodity.