Thanks to Mike C. – letter from a Skyline Resident
Re: “Dr. Abe Bergman treated Seattle and the nation” [Dec. 13, Opinion]:
The editorial recognized Dr. Abe Bergman’s formidable achievements as a child advocate but failed to pass on his oft-repeated advice to all those who advocate for the politically powerless.
He was my principal mentor and often included these aphorisms in a talk, or when giving advice to colleagues and residents:
1. “All is not hopeless if we stop acting like bleating sheep.”
2. “Individuals can be more powerful than bureaucratic organizations.”
3. “Stop moaning and groaning about the fate of kids and learn how to be effective: Build coalitions; work with media; consult lobbyists.”
4. “The greatest battles are waged against those supposedly on our side.”
5. “Work on issues you care about, that are important, where a solution is possible. Pick the right goal: You seek a world where no children starve, I seek a world where fewer children starve.” (Attributed to Albert Camus.)
6. And what I believe was the core of his perspective: “Indignation without action is froth!” (Attributed to William Gladstone.)
Edgar K. Marcuse, M.D., MPH, Seattle, emeritus professor, pediatrics, University of Washington
A daughter of Dr. Bergman’s was a high school friend of our daughter’s. I spoke to him about a trip the kids were taking with his family. Tears well as I recall discussing our son. He said: “Where there is love, the child will return.” Happily, it was true for us, while not so for many parents of children with more severe mental challenges.
Readers, please click on the link to Abe Bergman’s opinion piece on Western State Hospital in the tribute Jim has forwarded. Where there is love, may we guide DSHS to showing families some respect!