The Moth Radio Hour: "Oreo, Heaven, and America’s Most Wanted"
Released on November 21, 2017
Host: Sarah Austin Janess

Episode Overview

In this engaging episode of The Moth Radio Hour, listeners are treated to four compelling true stories that span a range of emotional experiences. The narratives include a heartfelt journey into motherhood with a child diagnosed with Down syndrome, a humorous yet relatable struggle with Oreo addiction, and an extraordinary tale of inadvertently aiding the FBI in capturing America's most wanted fugitive. Each story is delivered with authenticity and emotional depth, offering profound insights into the human condition.

1. Bethany Van Delft: "Motherhood and Acceptance"

Recorded Live at the Moth in Boston, Massachusetts

Summary

Bethany Van Delft shares her poignant experience of becoming a mother to Lulu, her daughter diagnosed with Down syndrome. She recounts the emotional rollercoaster from the moment of birth, where initial fear and anxiety overshadowed the anticipated joy of motherhood. Overwhelmed by guilt and societal pressures, Bethany struggles with her identity as a mother, grappling with feelings of inadequacy and isolation.

Her turning point comes during a vacation in Key West, where a chance encounter with a compassionate woman allows Bethany to open up about her fears and insecurities. Through this interaction, she begins to see Lulu not as a burden but as a source of joy and hope. This shift in perspective helps Bethany embrace her role as a mother, fostering a sense of community and acceptance among her friends and family.

Notable Quotes

• "[...] When the time came, they told us to prepare for a very long labor, but no, I pushed for 20 minutes." (02:48)

• "I felt like somehow we had deceived our friends and family and that I should return all the gifts and apologize to every [person]." (09:15)

• "I told that mom, she's a child. This is her own kind. But I learned to never talk about what I was feeling again." (14:30)

• "Once I stopped fearing being this kind of mom, I realized that all moms cry a lot. All moms doubt their ability to raise this child. All moms worry about the future." (17:00)

Insights and Conclusions

Bethany's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of community support. Her journey from fear to acceptance highlights the importance of vulnerability and connection in overcoming personal struggles. By sharing her experience, Bethany provides solace and inspiration to others facing similar challenges, emphasizing that acceptance and joy can coexist even in the face of adversity.

2. Bill Burnett: "The Oreo Addiction"

Seattle, Moth Slam Series

Summary

Bill Burnett humorously narrates his battle with Oreo addiction, framing it as a more manageable vice compared to his previous struggles with hard drugs and smoking. His lighthearted yet candid account details the psychological tactics he employs to resist the temptation of Oreos, such as planning strategic grocery store visits and employing diversion techniques like pretending to browse the spice aisle.

Despite his efforts, Bill experiences relapses, leading to moments of self-deprecating humor and reflection. His story underscores the relatable nature of addiction, illustrating how even seemingly trivial habits can become significant personal battles. Through his comedic lens, Bill offers a humorous take on the challenges of overcoming addiction, while also acknowledging the underlying difficulties inherent in breaking free from habitual behavior.

Notable Quotes

• "I'm going to get the Oreos and take them home and not go through them real quick." (22:15)

• "I blacked out eating Oreos. I'm a blackout cookie eater." (26:30)

• "I got filled up with gratitude. I don't walk around in a state of gratitude, but for that one brief little moment of pure thankfulness." (27:00)

Insights and Conclusions

Bill's story serves as a humorous yet insightful exploration of addiction's pervasive nature. By comparing his Oreo habit to more severe addictions, he highlights the spectrum of addictive behaviors and the universal struggle to maintain self-control. His narrative reinforces the idea that addiction, regardless of its form, requires self-awareness and resilience to overcome. Through humor, Bill effectively communicates the challenges of addiction, making his story both entertaining and relatable.

3. Josh Bond: "Assisting the FBI in Capturing Whitey Bulger"

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Moth Slam Series

Summary

Josh Bond recounts an extraordinary incident where he inadvertently becomes involved in the FBI's pursuit of the notorious fugitive, James "Whitey" Bulger. As a manager of a hotel and apartment building in Santa Monica, Josh's neighbor, Charlie Gasco, is identified as the wanted man. Through a series of unexpected events, Josh finds himself assisting the FBI by providing access to Charlie's apartment and collaborating in the operation to apprehend him.

The story unfolds with Josh navigating the shock and ethical complexities of aiding law enforcement against a neighbor he had previously regarded as a kind individual. The culmination of the event sees Charlie being taken into custody, leaving Josh to reconcile his past relationship with his neighbor and the surprising role he played in the operation.

Notable Quotes

• "What does my face tell you?" ([28:30])

• "This is an old man who bought me a bike light one time because he was worried about me riding my bike at night without one." ([29:15])

• "I helped the FBI arrest the most wanted man in the country." ([51:32])

• "I have no idea. I'm sure someone around here who knows him will hear it." ([51:50])

Insights and Conclusions

Josh's story delves into the unexpected intersections of personal relationships and broader societal issues such as crime and law enforcement. His involvement in the arrest of Whitey Bulger highlights the unpredictable nature of life and the complexities inherent in judging individuals based solely on criminal identities. The narrative explores themes of trust, duty, and the moral ambiguities that arise when personal connections collide with legal responsibilities. Josh's experience underscores the profound impact that one moment of decision can have on both personal and external spheres.

Closing Remarks

This episode of The Moth Radio Hour masterfully weaves together stories that range from deeply personal struggles to extraordinary encounters with crime. Each storyteller offers a unique perspective, enriching listeners with narratives that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Through authenticity and emotional honesty, Bethany, Bill, and Josh provide profound insights into motherhood, addiction, and unexpected heroism, respectively. This episode exemplifies The Moth's commitment to showcasing diverse and impactful human experiences.

For more stories and information, visit The Moth's website.