Perspective
My battle with cancer was (thankfully) short-lived and is now over, but my perspective on life has changed forever. During these last three months, since my final chemo treatment, my experience has had time to settle and sink in. I admit that there are times when I almost allow myself to forget; when I just bury the whole thing. But then I force myself to shake it back into my consciousness.
Why?
Because, what really matters in life? What is important? Is it getting angry at the driver in front of me, stressing about all the work I have to get done, or worrying about what “they” think of me? Are these important? It’s a question worth pondering. I try to remind myself just how unimportant those things really are in my life. I’m no self-help writer and I certainly will not tell you what is important in your life; that’s up to you to decide.
I survived cancer, with only a glimpse of the pain, suffering, and tragedy that so many other cancer patients, family and friends endure. I have seen it in my office where I work with a woman who continues to fight brain cancer and another woman who has just lost her husband to bladder cancer. My heart goes out to them. I feel such a deep connection to the disease and those who suffer from it.
What is so important to me, is that I have my health. I am so incredibly fortunate to have that. And I won’t allow myself to forget it.
November 4, 2009
I'm so glad that you have not allowed yourself to forget your struggles. You know one of the most important things is recognizing it and allowing yourself to feel all of those feelings buried down inside. One's health, physical and mental is the most important aspect of their life along with their happiness I believe. I can't explain how happy I am that you are cancer-free and that you continue to see the bigger picture in life and inspire others to do the same.
Much love,
Cassandra