I have had 24 chemo infusions and 33 radiation treatments and also one blood infusion along the way. At the outset, daughter Jen said I should consider this time as my sabbatical. I am reflecting on what I have been learning during this sabbatical. A lot of it involves the letter "p," so that's my theme. What have I learned?
Prayer: Prayer has been a part of my life, probably since I was about three, when my Mom taught me simple prayers. I am still learning. I am learning to "pray big" and be specific. I became part of a local email intercessory prayer group (who has been praying for me!), and I have a special inclination to pray for those diagnosed with cancer.
Priorities: Life is short and I have so many interests. I want to choose wisely how I spend my time. Often, it's doing the "small things" and doing them well, knowing that even seemingly insignificant actions can and do make a difference.
Patience: I have a real sense that I am being healed, but I need to be patient. This may not happen overnight. And I am really thankful for Geo's understanding and patience with me during this time.
Parish: I am experiencing the value of being connected to the local church, not just being a member, but truly involved in so many of the opportunities that are available. I am blown away by the care and support offered to us by friends and local people in our town, and the Federated Church, and our own parish - the meals, the rides to medical appointments, the gifts, the cards, even encouraging texts on my phone. The support from our own local parish has been amazing. Even one of the college students came to visit me while I was receiving chemo (and - just for fun - did my nails). What I am especially beginning to treasure is becoming part of a smaller LOTW faith community within the parish who meets in homes a few times a month for prayer and fellowship and mission. Because so many have reached out to us, I do want to become more deeply and personally involved in some of our parish ministries.
Puzzles: I've always enjoyed crosswords, and I am very competitive. Now I look forward to them nearly every day, especially from Geo's WSJ and the Sunday NYT. They've helped me focus and get my mind on so many topics other than some nagging discomforts I may be feeling.
So there is so much of the Positive that is happening. The cancer diagnosis has slowed me down - a lot - but that is not a bad thing.It has been a time of re-evaluating and considering how life moving ahead can become even better and best. For this I am grateful.
Fitness Plan: What helped me with a diagnosis of cancer in 2016, and recovery during 2017, was looking forward to joining First Strides and becoming a runner. I am missing First Strides this year. Daughter Addie continues to inspire me with her running achievements. So my plan is to do another 5K before the year is over! YES!
#CancerBeGone
