I’m often surprised at how similar us humans act after getting a cancer diagnosis. Many go through: freaked out, giving objects away, end of life planning, enlightened, etc. One thing I’m not sure if I had/have in common with others, is my television viewing preferences.
In the beginning, (vague because I’m not exactly sure when this took place) I was unable to watch any kind of program on television. I felt it was a waste of my time. If my time was limited, why would I spend it in such a non-meaningful way? Every moment was to be perfect, meaningful, and fulfilling. (Read: exhausting, draining, and far too much pressure to put on oneself.)
In the middle, I began to watch programs with SW. I’d giggle how we were spending my, presumed limited, time watching bad shows or movies. It was funny to me. I’d chuckle, then get right back to snuggling since our one television is located in our chilly basement.
Now, I am very okay with spending my time watching television as long as I am entertained. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t watch a lot of television. And by ‘television’ I’m lumping movies in there too. I am very selective on what kind of program I watch. For the most part, I prefer light and funny. I stay clear of shows like Breaking Bad. I’ve toyed with the idea of watching Big C but gosh, I don’t think it is a good fit for me.
The Big C is fantastic. Do watch it! I know after diagnosis is I felt I should live every minute to its best – but I just can’t keep it up. Too tiring. So so etimes living to the best is just doing what we want to do, when we want to do it.
I agree, VERY tiring to make every moment perfect. I do really like getting to do what I want. Sort of feels like I’m a kid again.
Take good care, Gail.
Kim! Interesting entry ‘cancertainment’ drew me to TV. Previously I was a one mini -series at a tme kind of person, Sopranos until it ended then Sons of Anarchy. Cancertainment opened my interest in ‘Breaking Bad’. Just finished getting all caught up on past seasons through DVD’s from local library..
I usually like the HBO and Showtime series. I’m just not sure about Breaking Bad… I have been tempted since it pops up as recommended on Netflix.
you’re absolutely right, my mom has shown the new signs of being anti tv and/or only wanting to view things that make her laugh/happy which is completely understandable.
as an aside, “Scandal” is a great show – i recommend it highly!
Scandal- I’ll have to try it. The goofy flicks I watch are suspended for a few months. I’ll have to check for it online…my tv still has rabbit ears.
I don’t have cancer but my sister does, she is in the hospital now. I get what you are saying about TV. I feel at times it is a waste of time, but I do get drawn to a few shows. My husband got me to watch “Duck Dynasty”, please do not laught Kim, you know I live in the SOUTH ! No horrible lanuage used, they believe in their faith, and I think Ms. Kay has her family right where she wants them. I limit my TV to 2 – 3 shows a week.
Usually on weekends I don’t watch at all. My sister and I do enjoy music, I have purchased her SIRUS radio for her bedroom, that is where she is most of the time, if not at our Mom’s. I read a lot. I like movies, but my husband and I go to sleep watching, our attention spand not what it used to be. (telling my age) Oh, BIG BANG THEORY, I still watch. I agree with other posts, do what makes you happy and you feel good, spending time with SW and SMILE, it makes the day a lot getter for everyone.
Sorry to hear about your sister in the hospital. I hope your able to see her.
You noticed I left off what I do watch- most people would laugh! Goofy, funny, often with a syfy element. I’m a dork and okay with it. 🙂
Wish you well Diane!
Funny, I was just thinking about this over the weekend as I motored through a “Homeland” marathon to get caught up on season two. It was gross outside (grey, damp, and cool) and I didn’t feel so bad about my time in front of the TV. You won’t find me there most days, but sometimes it is kind of nice to indulge in some fiction (especially Damian Lewis-based fiction) for a while. Then again, I’ve felt like this about the TV since before my cancer diagnosis, so I’m not sure it changed my habits. I steer clear of the cancer-based shows, though.
I’ve never been a huge TV watcher either, but I have noticed a big change in content preferences. I’ll have to look up “Homeland” when I need my next TV fix.
Hope the gym is still treating you well.
Comedies for sure, my son in law downloaded the first 2 seasons of Modern Family for me and Big Bang Theory. It helped to laugh. But now I must make a deep dark confession…The Walking Dead, someone always has it worse than you!
I know lots of people who are fans of Walking Dead. They do seem to have it pretty bad off!