I Suppose This Means I'm Mortal, Too

[CorpPunk]

I've been approaching old uni professors of mine about recommendations for grad school lately (that's another story).

Yesterday I got a letter from my favorite English professor saying it was great to hear from me and he'd love to write me a recommendation, but that he's had a stroke and probably isn't the best choice. His writing isn't what it used to be, he wrote, and he "sometimes has trouble with complex sentences." This, from one of the foremost American Lit. scholars in the world, a man who used to enter Middle English pronunciation competitions for the fun of it (and win, too).

Apparently I've gone soft in my old age--I find this terribly upsetting. I think "devastating" is a more accurate word. Would it be insensitive to send him a book I had a hand in, that relates to his former research (but is not an academic book)? It's the only thing I can think of to express my gratitude for his kindnesses to me in the past, but I can see how it might be...well, insensitive.

[Delilah]

Apparently I've gone soft in my old age--I find this terribly upsetting. I think "devastating" is a more accurate word. Would it be insensitive to send him a book I had a hand in, that relates to his former research (but is not an academic book)? It's the only thing I can think of to express my gratitude for his kindnesses to me in the past, but I can see how it might be...well, insensitive.

Go for it! I'm sure it will make him very proud!

[smiscandlon]

Apparently I've gone soft in my old age--I find this terribly upsetting. I think "devastating" is a more accurate word. Would it be insensitive to send him a book I had a hand in, that relates to his former research (but is not an academic book)? It's the only thing I can think of to express my gratitude for his kindnesses to me in the past, but I can see how it might be...well, insensitive.

Go for it! I'm sure it will make him very proud!

I agree with D.

Good teachers thrive on the accomplishments of their students.

[Black Alice]

I think so too - he answered you and only said that some of his faculties were impaired so he'll still be able to appreciate the gesture........

...........go for it - you'll only dwell on it if you don't

[andymackem]

I would. It's a nice gesture, and not obviously pitying.

Softie

[CorpPunk]

Softie

Tell me about it. It must be hormones or something. I'm going to go watch an instant coffee commericial and cry myself to sleep now.

I hate myself.

[andymackem]

It's when you start laughing at episodes of Will and Grace that you know it's all coming to an end.

I find listening to My Dying Bride puts me back on course.