Now I have gone through all of my treatments, I am in remission and just had clean scans. My hair is getting back to its old texture and growing into a style. I am so blessed that I found the lumps in stage 2 and that I am cancer free. I am exercising more than I have in a long time. I am trying to build a new creative life. I still have so much more that I want to do in this life and I am glad that I have been given another chance.
I do have a few lessons that I learned from cancer:
1. Stop and Smell the Flowers...
It seems so small, but I used to run around so busy like most people that I did not stop to smell the flowers unless they were sent to me in a vase! During chemo my life slowed down to a snails' pace so I could actually take the time to enjoy them. Now as I get busy again and I see a pretty flower - I think "I would like to stop and take a whiff..." and then I say "remember the lesson" so I stop for that instant and enjoy and I have learned that everything I wanted to get done still gets done, but I had that moment....
2. Don't Worry About Everything -Just the Important Things...
3. Make a Memory Each Day...
I am trying to make a memory each day... I have to say they are not all good memories, but I am trying. I am also a planner - so I guess this one is to have fun each day but make some kind of a memory... none of us know what is in store for us so we may as well try to make some pleasant memories as we go along.
4. Balance...
It is good to have balance in our lives, yet it is hard for many to achieve. I think when you go through cancer or something traumatic you learn that it is a must. I also think it is a work in progress. Something to continually strive for.
These are my lessons for now, I have more but these are the only ones that I have painted so far... So please anyone reading my little blog please take a moment today ...If you are over 40 and have not had your Mammogram this year call for the appointment. If you are 20 and over do a self breast exam -SBE -(if you do not know how to do one visit http://www.komen.org/ and you can learn) infact even if you are younger than 20 you should start to do a monthly BSE. You must know yourself so you can tell if there are any changes. Your greastest risk factor is being a woman. Early detection saves lives. You are your best advocate. So go smell some flowers, don't worry, make a memory and find some balance!!
4 comments:
Thanks for the recovery wishes MB and thanks for sharing these lessons. They sound pretty simple buts its pretty amazing how many of us still don't do them.
To add on to you Make a memory lesson, After reading "Chasing Daylight" I'm trying to make and savor "Perfect Moments". =)
CONGRATS on your 2 year survivorship!!!
Jess
I reached your blog from the comment you left on my sister's. CONGRATULATIONS on celebrating your 2nd Year Survivor Anniversary! Your lessons and paintings are inspiring and beautiful! We can all benefit by following them.
Congratulations on reaching your two year mark. I am just a few weeks away from mine as well.
Self breast exams and self testicular exams are essential in detecting early changes to ones body. After all, who knows you body better than yourself.
Congratulations again.
Just came over for a little visit to see your blog. I love you pictures. They are beautiful.
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