Join Michael Eselun, certified interfaith chaplain for the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, as he explores a common coping strategy — "It could be worse " — for dealing with life challenges like cancer.
For both cancer patients and their caregivers, Eselun noted, embracing an “it could be worse” frame of mind is often presumed to snap them into “an attitude of gratitude,” so the burden doesn’t seem so heavy. As one contemplates the universe or even one's understanding of God, this attitude might seem to balance out one’s perception of the scales of justice and fairness. But what are the implications? What does it say about our view of suffering and the suffering of others? And what is the cost of clinging to “it could be worse” as a way of getting through our challenges?
Eselun will address these issues and more on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 7-9 p.m., at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center Auditorium, Room B130 (B Level). The event is free. Parking is available for $12 at the medical center and in Parking Lot 8.
Learn more about Eselun at his website.
