Topic of Cancer.

[captainsblog]

I know, the calendar and the culture are pointing decidedly to "thankfulness" right about now, but two friends from two completely different circles of life passed along news today that's making that a bit harder than usual.  One, I knew over 30 years ago, and not so well, but through friends-of-friends and the added binding of Facebook, we've renewed contact and had more than our share of laughs over the past few weeks. Tonight, not so much: Steve's son goes in for a biopsy tomorrow.

Another friend's mom is even further along in her diagnosis, and well on her way to some very aggressive treatment. Kim's mom had to travel this road to recovery once before, and thought she had it beat, but a seemingly unrelated condition earlier this week revealed some Very Bad Things in a number of very bad places today. There's the certainty of radiation and chemo in her future, but I've just as certainly been witness today to dozens of prayers and hugs and offers of help and heart from a circle of her friends including three people here she's never even met (and more than a few of you).

It's harder for me than for some to put that all aside and give thanks anyway. And yet I do, as we all must when faced with the inevitable, the inescapable, even the incurable (which hopefully none of this actually is). It makes pettiness over money, or perceived slights, or magnified misunderstandings, all seem very, very small.

Love what you have. Love WHO you have, while you have them. Give thanks, with a joyful heart.  As I do for each and every one of you.

Comments

[troubleagain.livejournal.com]

Well said, sir. My best wishes for all who are suffering the losses, the disease and all.

[headbanger118.livejournal.com]

As always, you have come right to the point and hit it spot on, Cap'n. My heart has been worked quite hard today, and I have finally had to admit that I can only lay this at the feet of God and be all that I can for my dear friend.

Most of what we worry and argue about in life is trivial. Most of what we insist on is petty. People are what is important. People and our relationships with them. Every day of every month of every year I grow more aware of this.

[(Anonymous)]

Ass one more to your prayer list,Eleanor and Ray. Leslie had a biopsy last Friday and won't know for another week. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.

[bluesilverkdg.livejournal.com]

It was so good to talk to you today, Ray. I was actually feeling OK by the time I'd gotten out with Terri and had some food (my first of the day.) Earlier, I was in a decidedly more hysterical state, but I've just decided mom needs me to be brave, and I am. Your prayers and love, and those of soooo many others have really helped tremendously. I think you don't know how much people care until you need them, but that's when it's often most important. Thank you again.

She looks fantastic this morning. They actually let her take a shower and get out of bed to walk around the room for a minute. Just that small thing perked her spirits unbelievably. We're a strong family and we WILL get through this, but I'm amazed at the support outside of the family that we're getting. It does my heart good. :-)