Expression: Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose
Meaning: the more things change, the more they stay the same.
Literal translation: the more it changes, the more it’s the same thing.
Disturbing Yet Familiar Story are a reality of rescuing lost stories. In some sense, each story has these familiar seven elements. This is true of the Bible, myths from around the world, and yes, your stories. It is both reassuring and unsettling that this structure does, indeed, exist.
Why? Our stories are personal and real, and, in some sense, give meaning to our existence. Yet, I find the existence of this underlying structure somewhat reassuring that, in the end, justice will prevail.
The Long Resolution
When I first read Eunice Hunt Tripler’s memoir, I knew it was special. A hidden treasure. I wrote a BLOG using it as an example of why people must tell and/or write their personal story.
Then a year later, Jack Dempsey of the Michigan Civil War Association (MCWA) read the BLOG and contacted us. He was researching Eunice’s Husband, Dr. Charles Stuart Tripler. As he and my husband collaborated, the MCAW decided to devote an entire book about Eunice Tripler and her role in the Civil War. We took a road trip to attend in person the book launch on the occasion of Eunice’s 200th birthday.
This was to be followed by a book devoted entirely to her husband. That book is now ready.
The Author
Jack Dempsey is an award-winning author of works on the Civil War and Michigan history and culture, and a member of the Society of Civil War Historians and Society for Women and the Civil War. He served as:
- Chairman of Michigan Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee;
- Vice-President and President of Michigan Historical Commission (2007-2018);
- member of Michigan World War I Centennial Commission;
- board member of several heritage-focused nonprofit organizations.
A trained lawyer, Jack approaches research for his books examining the facts.
His Sword A Scalpel uncovers the invaluable work of Dr. Tripler, his contribution to the Civil War medical corps, and, indeed, the medical care within the US Army for years to follow. It debunks many myths about medical care during the Civil War and reveals an injustice done to the reputation of Dr. Tripler.
In this book, he aptly untangles the grudges, misinformation, and politics that marginalized Dr. Tripler and his work – until now. The pattern of the Disturbing Yet Familiar Story of what goes wrong when politics governs health care is hard to miss.
His Sword A Scalpel is available now on Amazon at His Sword A Scalpel. The family is deeply indebted to Mr. Dempsey for giving these two family members a voice.
Two Lessons
First: Your story matters. It may take a while, but your voice will be heard. Write yours down.
Second: There is nothing new under the sun – the plus ca change……
Proceeds as author help fund the Michigan Civil War Association in erecting Michigan’s first-ever monument at Antietam National Battlefield. Born in Detroit, a graduate of James Madison College at Michigan State University and George Washington University’s National Law Center, he first became fascinated by the Civil War in the 3rd Grade. He lives in Plymouth Township, Michigan. Check out jackdempseybooks.com for events, news, and other information.
Nancy, thanks for your BLOG and emails – all very interesting. I love the book recommendations. I like reading about the Civil War, WW1 and WW2. Have read a lot about WW2 as Dad was in that one – Air Force, shot down and a prisoner of war. But all of it is interesting to me. Thanks again.
Thanks Sue! Love to know you are taking time to read- it means a lot