I find it rather telling...

[x_maker]

...how the perceptions of responsibility go around here. After a night's thought on the subject, I came to this conclusion. While the appropriate teachers and staff are bound by ethical considerations and vocation to look out for our best interests, it stands to some argument as to who should decide what those best interests are. In Amanda's case, it was the choice to risk her own health for something she obviously thought was worth it. Argue the priorities all you want, it was still her decision to make, proven by the simple fact that she did it.

Conversely, I get asked to rush to the medlab to assist with a technical matter, and spend the better part of eight hours running simulations on the computer software and burying myself in schematics and test data. When I've got two roommates upstairs who nearly ripped each other to shreds a few days ago, and could possibly be doing the same right now, I don't know. Now, much like Amanda - I like using my power to help people. So far, it doesn't give me any nosebleeds or migraines or what have you. I think my record has been staying up working for fifty-three hours, but that's another matter entirely.

The point is, it's my choice to do so. I don't consider myself obligated in any way to use what I can do to be of service - I do it because I choose to. If there was the possibility of harm, that would affect my decision - but it would still be my decision. To try and dictate when and where it shouldn't be used, I see that as no different than slapping someone in chains - because you take away that aspect of choice.

It's no secret - I don't like the inhibitors. I detest "the Box". I hate the concept of image inducers. But I know that in the first two cases, they are sometimes medically necessary. In the latter, it's simply a matter of fear and vanity, and a choice that's up to the individual to use. But imagine telling someone "If you're going to go out in public, you MUST use the image inducer". What does that tell them other than "You're not fit for going out as you are. You are not good enough."?

Despite everyone's favorite buzzword of "equality" - the simple fact remains that we are not equal with those generations that came before us. Our powers do define us, like it or not. The same way that a basketball player being tall defines who he is. To try and take away our choice as to their appropriate use is no different than putting mutants' names on a registration list, or mandating separate lunch counters and drinking fountains.

I am a mutant, and I will not be ashamed of it. In the outside world OR here. That gives me an edge, an advantage, a natural gift that makes me unique. And because it is mine, the choice of how to use it is mine - and I will deal with the consequences or merits that result. While I appreciate the ability I have here to refine it and train it more than I can express - in the end, I will not surrender my freedom as to how I use it. But I suppose that's a choice everyone has to make for themselves.

If anyone wants to think more on this, I have some great books to read on the subject.

Comments

[x-mirage.livejournal.com]

I am not only defined by my powers. I was Red before I was a mutant. I'll always be Cheyenne first. There is so much more that makes me me and you you than just our powers. They are a part of the whole. and if you think you are only your powers then I may as well still believe I'm some stupid girl needing a husband. because I am more than that as you yelled at me one day and you are right. and you are more than just "the maker" Hahkota.

[x-polarisstar.livejournal.com]

You are cordially invited to my philosophy class, John Henry. I find your rhetoric as stated uninformed and immature. You are welcome to change my mind.

[x-madelyn.livejournal.com]

I'm not arguing with your right to choose what to do with your powers, Forge, or for anyone else - hell, that'd be arrogance of unimaginable scale for me, considering I'm powerless myself. But there are always factors involved with choices, and sometimes the reasons for a choice are almost as important as the choice itself.

Part of the reason Amanda was taken off healing people is because she was literally draining herself dry to do it. To the point she was seriously endangering her health on minor matters that would heal just fine on their own. The other was that we were concerned with her perception of herself, and the perception others had of her, as nothing more than a healing machine. That was a bad reason for her to choose to help, which is why we stepped in.

Helping is good, but why you're helping is sometimes more important. And what it costs should always be considered.