One thing we know for certain is that we are going to die. But the thing is we don’t know when or how we are going to die. And because of that we are sometimes lulled into a false sense of thinking that we are invincible. Living as though we are immortal beings. But life has a way of reminding us that we are indeed mortal and often in a cruel and insensitive way. In fact, there is no other way, is there?
A week ago, my sister told me she may have breast cancer. She actually found the lump almost a month ago after watching a program on TV about cancer, right before Christmas. Can you imagine the anxiety and turmoil she endured without support because she decided not to tell anyone? Her reason, she didn’t want to spoil anyone’s holidays. That is the type of person she is, always thinking of others.
Since I heard this horrible news we have been in touch, my sister and I. She lives on the other side of the country from me making contact somewhat difficult but texting is an ideal way to keep in touch. As we talk I am amazed at her strength and how well she is taking this news. She went for her biopsy last week and because she lives some distance from a city hospital the results will take almost a week. I can’t imagine in this day of technology why there is this kind of delay. Surely there must be ways to get the test results earlier than having to wait a week.
Meanwhile, she waits. Waiting is difficult for anyone, especially if you are waiting to hear news about your health, and it must seem like time is standing still with plenty of time to think. My brave big sister has decided to be positive. She said that she feels happy to be healthy and alive. It struck me as an odd thing for her to say given her situation. But she quickly said," at this moment I am healthy, not experiencing any pain, and I am alive. I will be grateful for today." Of course, she also said that there are moments, burst of tears, anger, and bewilderment, which is understandable.
Healthy. We take our health for granted. Just imagine what it would feel like if it could all be taken away with one test, what a frightening feeling. Therefore, in this trying time I take comfort in my sister's outlook to be grateful for today. Being positive and grateful does not negate that we are human and prone to severe illness. It important that we take pause to enjoy life one moment at a time and being grateful for those in our lives.
She wants to live. She will live. She has to live. God, I hope she lives for years to come.
Healthy. We take our health for granted. Just imagine what it would feel like if it could all be taken away with one test, what a frightening feeling. Therefore, in this trying time I take comfort in my sister's outlook to be grateful for today. Being positive and grateful does not negate that we are human and prone to severe illness. It important that we take pause to enjoy life one moment at a time and being grateful for those in our lives.
She wants to live. She will live. She has to live. God, I hope she lives for years to come.
