X-Message-Number: 19007
From: "George Smith" <>
References: <>
Subject: Re: Precautions
Date: Wed, 1 May 2002 10:24:20 -0700

In Message #18999 Raphael T. Haftka also asked in "Subject: less than
optimal suspensions":

... "I assume that some of us have given some thought and have taken action
to reduce the chance of problem when we are suspended. Possibly cryonicists
with short life expectancy due to age or illness. I would appreciate if
anybody is willing to share information on the precautions they are taking."

Here are the precautions I have taken in order of importance:

(1) Signed up for cryonic suspension.

(2) Let all of my friends and relatives know that fact (including a
practicing funeral director).

(3) Always wear my medical bracelet.

(4) Promised myself I would not try to out guess the future and that I would
maintain an optimistic perspective on cryonics working.

In other words NO HUBRIS.

More than any other single thing I have found to support longevity and
optimal health, keeping an optimistic attitude on this issue has been the
most important thing I have done after the first three steps mentioned above
were taken.

Optimism allows me to not allow depression or despair to become a mental
habit which might lead to blindness in regard to other positive steps I
might be able to take.

The indulgence in the assumption of being able to assume there are KNOWABLE
"odds for success or failure" is not only logical nonsense but can lead to
the deadly results of depression by assuming "low" odds.

As my physician once explained it to me, "Health is a corridor from birth to
death and we can slow our advance toward the end of the corridor to some
extent."

Cryonics is a door at the end of the corridor.  By not assuming the door is
locked, but that it is open, my perspective on life is shifted toward an
overall more optimistic and, I might add, health enhancing perspective.

I would NOT prefer to be "dead right" (and buried 6 feet) rather than to
WIN.

"Winning" seems to be enhanced by assuming the door is open.
"Losing" seems to be enhanced by assuming it is probably locked.
HONESTY is to admit that no one knows yet.
INTELLIGENCE seems to dictate the value, therefore, of assuming it is open.

Whatever other steps others might suggest taking, these four seem to me to
be pretty fundamental.

Just my opinion,

George Smith
CI member and Immortalist

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