RH♥︎M

Re-Humanization HeART movement exhibit May 2025

I invite you to join the movement for another exhibit 2026

https://www.createwithlynda.com/post/the-rh-m

5/14 portraits

What choice?

My healthcare career of over 20 years shaped me into someone who respects science while maintaining healthy skepticism. My own health challenges taught me to research thoroughly rather than blindly following advice.

The last few years felt like living in an alternate reality. I kept hearing "trust the science," which felt off to me. Having navigated my own health journey and working in healthcare, I've always trusted science but recognized it evolves. With the COVID vaccine, nothing felt right to me, despite listening to experts on both sides.

The choice should have been personal, but for many, it wasn't. Some still say, "You always had a choice," but consider what that "choice" meant:

• Risking the career, I worked years for

• Facing shame or ostracism from peers

• Losing the job supporting my family

• Missing visits with aging parents or grandparents

• Not hugging friends or supporting them through hardship

• Being unable to visit sick or dying loved ones

• Missing important life events like births, weddings or funerals

• Giving up simple joys like sharing meals with friends & family

• Losing social connections with friends

• Not dining out or going to a gym or swimming on a lake

What kind of choice is that?

The dehumanization wasn't just policy—it was how people suddenly viewed each other. Complex individuals became reduced to simplistic labels, with questioners branded as dangerous regardless of careers following scientific principles.

Despite everything, I'm grateful for what I've learned. This experience opened my eyes and made me a better critical thinker. I've become more discerning about information and less willing to accept authority without question.

While growing more cautious about what I hear and read, I've grown more compassionate toward individuals. I understand everyone is on their own journey, and others' opinions reflect their story, not mine. I prioritize understanding over agreement in relationships now.

Pain has its benefits. The suffering taught me to see others—and be seen—as fully human, with all our complexities. Though I wouldn't choose to relive these years, I'm grateful for the clarity they've given me. I now move through the world with more purpose and authenticity, recognizing that our greatest growth often comes through our deepest challenges.