At this point Barrett, I need to ask if you understand occupation?
Ron,
Well, I've read through the posts about "occupation" in the archive and can say without hesitation that I agree with everybody. Of course, this does not mean I actually understand the whole issue or have anything more to contribute specifically. I'm only hoping that by saying this that I won't be asked to take sides.
Back to the movie. For many (certainly me) one very striking scene is the one revealing the transformation of this pudgy, soft, pasty executive into a lean, mean fish-spearing machine. Perhaps it's my roots in PT that draws my attention. Surely without the effort it took to become like this our hero might not have survived, and you get there through repetitive, largely mindless work-including what it takes to acquire the spear throwing expertise. So I think it's fair to say that the principles of PT assist in survival-and here I'm using the "remain alive" definition of the word.
Of course, there's more to life than merely surviving. I feel that when this man writes on the package that it "saved my life" he acknowledges the gifts occupation offers us. Without the avenues of art all of our strength and physical skill means little, and, after all, the man doesn't write "This package saved me from starving." PT kept him strong enough to survive, OT saved his life. I think many who have received both services might agree.
Finally there is this from the OT literature-specifically AJOT 25 (July-August 1971) "Occupational Therapy-A Historical Perspective Legacy of Moral Treatment 1800s-1910" by J. Sanbourne Bockoven: "...occupational therapy is based first and foremost upon respect for human individuality and on a fundamental perception of the individual's need to engage in relation to his fellow man.
To me, this definition doesn't bear much relation to PT as I see it practiced today, and that concerns me. I'm grateful that the OTs understand its potential and work to make that perception a real part of recovery.
Barrett L. Dorko, P.T. <http://barrettdorko.com> Also <http://rehabedge.com>
_______________________________________________ To unsubscribe, visit: http://otnow.com/mailman/listinfo/otlist_otnow.com
The OTnow Mail Archive: www.mail-archive.com/[EMAIL PROTECTED]
===============================================
