Hi, I'm _____, and you are?

Experienced today what it must feel like to be both *invisible and unrecognizable -- curiously, neither response was "offendable," (I know, not a word, but I wanted the "ble!"). I've known, of course, that the outward change in my appearance - as in nearly no hair and sporting hats - would evoke some sort of a reaction in the folks I encounter. What I didn't know was how I'd react to those reactions.

On a smiley note: Rover loves her grandpa!

I think I now know at least two of my reactions:
1) with empathy, and
2) gently challenging

I never want to be preachy, or pushy, or sanctimonious about anything. But helping people get comfortable with those of this world who are being treated for the CBitch is important. On the flip side, experiencing their reactions is a humbling and constructive life-lesson for me.

Heavens, I'm tired.


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*From the LJ Dictionary of definitions:
Invisible = "That person over there is obviously going through some health problem. I don't know how to respond, so I'll just avoid making eye contact."