Today, by complete happenstance, in the most unlikely of environments, I was with three remarkable women. All of whom have cancer in one form or another. We shared our stories with deep empathy, compassion and humor. Yes, humor. It was comedically absurd, actually. Especially considering that we were all together this time last year and had no health concerns whatsoever.
As we were talking and laughing, I found myself in awe of and inspired by these women. None of whom is defined by their disease, but all of whom have taken cancer in their stride and learned from it. I believe each of us sees cancer as one chapter in our life. Because that is what it is. One chapter.
We all have chapters in our life. Some are hard to read. Others easy. Some chapters are joyous. Others sad. The important thing to is learn, grow and keep on reading!
Words cannot describe the Silver Lining that my brief, unplanned conversation had today. The timing was impeccable – as it always is.
Our dignity is not in what we do, but what we understand.
– George Santayana
Hi Hollye,
It's good to have those moments when friends can help us to laugh, even briefly, about the situation and help us to think beyond ourselves. During chemo, this lightness probably can't be sustained, as you don't have the distance on it yet. Be careful and allow yourself to feel it all exactly the way it is. There will be plenty of time down the road where you will begin to learn from it & look back on this chapter. Cancer is a very,very tough lesson. I've been cancer free for nearly two years and doing well -definitely better, but take it slow and go easy. One day at at time.
I love that description. Keep writing and we'll keep reading and vice versa. xox
Hollye, true words of wisdom and light. You're an incredible woman. All my love!
xoxo C
Hi Hollye,
I have meaning to e-mail you for a while. I am so sorry to hear about your FBC. I was always inspired by you and the way in which you embraced life and de-mystified death and worked to make the end of life better for so many children. I continue to be inspired by your beautiful nature and open and honest way of approaching life. I hope you continue to experience SL every day. You are a blessing in this world.
My very best,
Chris
You are inspiring Hol and your sense of humor is one of the many things that makes you such an incredible person! xx
So glad that you had the chance to share with the other women. I always found it was so helpful to be with those who have experienced my "chapter" (I like that word)as they truly know. My sister has thyroid cancer, but she has very few people who she can share with. Sounds like some amazing women..all of you!
Thinking of you every day…N