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So, I’ve been doing some thinking about the nature of monsters and stuff. What makes something a monster? Fangs? Claws? A physiology that directs you to eat rotting flesh and suck the marrow from old bones? I used to think these were pretty solid quantifying points, but now, not so much.
It wasn’t Kermit’s little speech about the hard line I’d drawn. It wasn’t Erin telling me I had moved like a vampire. It wasn’t Aurum’s little test.
It was Dr Nolan and Tony Rollins.
You see, being a monster isn’t a matter of physicality. It’s a state of mind. It’s the result of the choices we make. Mercy didn’t choose to become a vampire. Neither did Martínez. Tony Rollins’ dog didn’t ask to become a werewolf.
Yet, I’d made the decision to laugh off Tony’s claims about his dog. I’d chosen to abandon Nolan without giving him the tools and skills he needed to deal with the reality of his suspicions. They both died because of the choices I made.
Tell me I’m not the monster in this equation.
But, I think I can live with it.
What’s that quote by Nietzche? He who fights monsters should watch his own arse lest it become monstrous? Good advice, but a touch too late for me. So, I’m going to do the best I can and try to make better decisions.
And if the better choice is to be the monster, then so be it.
Afterword
In the end of this story, Erin decides against a blood transfusion. She had her reasons, but for a lot of people, it’s not an option.
Transfusions are an integral part of medicine and is a very safe procedure. They’re not only used in traumatic circumstances. All lot of transfusions are given to patients with blood cell disorders. For these people, receiving a blood transfusion is absolutely vital to their life.
A single donation of blood can be used in three different ways. It’s divided into red cells, platelets and plasma, all of which are used in a variety of circumstances and all are very important. One donation can save three different lives.
Sadly, blood and blood product stocks are more often than not very low. Something that can be easily remedied.
I encourage everyone who is capable to donate blood. It doesn’t hurt, it doesn’t take long and, generally, you get a biscuit and cuppa at the end. Not to mention the feeling of having helped someone else in desperate need. Trust me, everyone involved in the process from collection, through processing, to administering and finally, receiving, will be eternally grateful.
Cheers, L.J. Hayward
About the Author
L.J. Hayward lives and works on the Gold Coast, Australia. As a pathology scientist, she’s spent a good deal of time around blood and supposes it’s only natural she chose it as a cornerstone of her writing. Don’t worry, she’ll get over the obsession soon. Maybe. You can check up on her progress on her blog, Plot Happens or visit her website.
Sneak Peak
A sneak peak at
Demon Dei
Night Call: Book Two
Coming Soon