[2023-02-11] Saturday Synopsis #30
Each week, I look back at my posts from one and two years ago, marveling at where I was then and where I am now. For instance, a year ago this week, I rang the bell at the Irving Greenberg Family Cancer Centre to mark the completion of radiation to treat perianal skin cancer. And two years ago, I began taking a maintenance drug as phase 3 of my treatment for ovarian cancer.
3 Ideas From Me
It's so easy to take our loved ones for granted—to assume that they'll be there tomorrow, that they'll be available to answer our questions, and that they'll have the mental capacity to remember their stories when we do ask them. Don't wait. If you've been meaning to talk to a loved one—a grandparent, a parent, an aunt, an uncle, a sibling, a cousin, a friend—make a point to do so. Start a routine, such as a daily call (if time permits), a weekly chat, a family Zoom, an email exchange. Record the conversation, if your loved one is comfortable, or do as I did today: jot down some notes after the discussion.
We don't always hear the stories of people who thrive after dealing with cancer or who find greater meaning in their lives despite some new physical limitations. These stories are important. They give hope to others. I am lucky to have connected with a woman who had ovarian cancer years ago. Every day, she embraces life. Every day, she sees beauty in the world. Every day, she lives. I want to follow in her footsteps. I'm not the same after cancer. I think I'm better.
If you're going through s**t and fretting over your lack of control, it might help to change your perspective. Look for the things you can control and take pride in the things you are learning. Your wisdom may be just the thing someone else needs to get them through a similar s**tty situation in the future.
2 Quotes From Others
When expressing themselves in writing, people are actually creating an artifact—a symbol of some of their thoughts and feelings. People often can write what they find difficult to speak, and so they explore deeper truths. This process of expression through the written word can build trust and bonds with others in unthreatening ways, forging a path toward a more aware and connected life.
~ Jeremy Nobel, doctor and public health practitioner
Something I’ve learned is that you have to take moments everyday to pause & be proud of yourself. To focus on the things you’ve done well. To focus on all of the things you’ve overcome & conquered in your life so far. Focusing on the good always brings more of the good into focus.
~ Lisa Lisson, FedEx President
1 Question For You
The best job you've ever had?
