and you cannot see the shadows."
(Helen Keller)
What a beautiful and very meaningful philosophy. To think that such a quote from a
woman, Helen Keller who never saw the sun shine. Perhaps her eyes physically did not
see the beauty of the sun's rays, her soul/spirit saw them. At a deep level that many of
us do not reach, she knew that seeing shadows was self-destructive and unhealthy.
Those of us who have heard the words, "You have cancer" wanted to retreat
into the shadows. We could not see the sun or rays of hope for a period of time.
For some of us it might be only for a few days, others months, and a few never step
out of the shadows.
When I was diagnosed in 2008 with ovarian cancer I went into a cocoon for a couple
of days grieving and adjusting to what was now my new life. I asked questions. I
researched. I prayed. I leaned on the shoulders of friends and let the hugs from them
and family help me to lift my eyes up to the sunshine.
In 2014 I was diagnosed again with two tumors, one in the lung and one in the pelvis.
I was shocked because I felt so good and had no symptoms. I was put on chemo-
therapy for two years. I continued to live each day to the fullest trying to follow
God's will.
The two tumors returned in Oct. of 2016. Two weeks ago I had surgery to remove the
abdominal tumor and will start radiation to the tumor in the lung.
etc. I believe we are to keep our face to the sunshine. Or, look up to God for strength and
guidance. I believe we are to learn from each experience and become stronger.
*I think of Mr. M., Mr. W., Mr. B. to name but a few, who have lost their wives
to cancer.
*I think of dear friends, Marilyn, Marsha, and Donna who buried their loved ones.
*I pray for those facing divorce.
*I rejoice for friends who found peace and joy though their world had been turned
upside down due to financial losses.
*I pray for friends who daily face health difficulties due to long term illnesses.
All of these people turned their faces to the sunshine and proved to
have the same strength as Helen Keller did.
Enjoy this video and let it lift your soul:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIucRL4iQTI&feature=player_embedded
My thanks to each of you who have been inspirational role models to me.
**Don't forget that anytime my book, Outshine: An Ovarian Cancer Memoir"
all proceeds go to gynecologic/ovarian cancer research**
8 comments:
Karen I'm so happy to hear your wonderful news and learn you're on the way to wellness again. What a gift, truly. You are a pillar of strength and a shining example of courage for so many. Wishing you wellness continued and sharing around your 'sunshine'. <3
"Keep your face to the sunshine" is a beautiful truth and image. Thanks for sharing that and the video. Very inspiring.
I'm keeping you in my prayers, Karen, and hope you weather the chemo without side effects. I'll think of you on my daily walks as I feel the sun on my face, and I'll send a little your way 😊 Hugs ♥
Debby, thank you for your support and good wishes. It helps any of us to know that there are those praying for us.
D.L. I also the thought the video was quite inspiring and amazing. Such talented young ones. No matter what life brings us I believe we do need to keep our face to the sunshine.
Thank you for your support and sending some sunshine my way!
Karen, you exude positive energy, and I truly believe that it bounces off all whom you inspire and returns to you. Thank you for sharing your journey and your brightness with all of us. I will continue to send healing energy your way. :-)
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