I want to tell you a story about [insert person] who, as a child, [insert hardship].
Growing up, [an official authoritarian figure] said [something negative] about the outcome of this person’s life. Optional: But [insert name of person who has to love afore-mentioned person] said [don’t give up and/or dream].
But [perseverance example] and today [famous person]!
◊ ◊ ◊
So some years ago, I’m in the hospital at age 43 with a foot-long scar from heart surgery and a distant cousin sends word of an inspirational story. Somebody (just my age!) had (just what I had!) and today he’s (rich with a huge penis!)
And I’m finding out I have to take nine pills a day for the rest of my life and can only go “one” on the treadmill right now and I think:
Eff you.
It was the first time I laughed after heart surgery. So — thanks.