To the Editor:
Well, well, well, look at Mr. Hirsch feeling all “exhilarated” about losing his vision. I mean, can you believe it? The man is actually enjoying being blind. Meanwhile, us mere mortals are struggling to adjust to our sudden loss of sight.
I’m not saying I envy him or anything (okay, maybe a little), but I would’ve appreciated a warning before my vision started going haywire. One minute I’m minding my own business, the next I’m seeing more flashing lights than a disco ball and struggling to see a darn thing.
Nowadays, I’m stuck with a magnifying glass that barely helps me read my beloved New York Times. And don’t even get me started on writing checks (as if anyone still uses those).
Oh, and let’s not forget about the walking. Suddenly, I’m navigating the sidewalks like a toddler learning to walk for the first time. It’s like my eyesight is playing a game of hide-and-seek with me.
Recently, I’ve had to hire an aide to take me on errands because driving is no longer an option (at least, not if I want to avoid a pile-up). And if you’re brave enough to catch me typing this letter, you’d see that everything on the screen is nothing but a blur.
To top it off, there’s always the worry that this could happen again. Honestly, I’d rather be worried about what’s for dinner tonight. So, no Mr. Hirsch, I cannot join in on your “exhilaration” over losing my vision.
Sincerely,
Ruth Messineo
Woodland Park, N.J.
Opinion | Lights Out: Seeing the Funny Side of Blind Fury and Hopeful Hysteria
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