As I zipped through my social media this morning, I noted that two friends were posting that they were either NED or cancer free.
Good for them I thought. And then I, little miss Never Been Ned, reflected yet again on what it’s like to live not without, but rather with cancer.
It’s ok. Sort of like living through a pandemic.
Once upon a time I wished fervently that bad things wouldn’t happen. But they did. Again and again.
Truthfully we’d all prefer to simply coast but if we can figure out a way to ride into a stiff wind, well, we’re golden.
At least that’s what I tell myself. It’s the same attitude that has me taking the stairs versus an escalator or elevator. Both will get me to the same destination but one has the added benefit of a workout.
Rather than avoiding challenges, I seek them. That is because I am truly invested in becoming better, tougher, stronger, smarter.
COVID-19 is testing us all. This is not the world we once knew. It’s difficult to embrace a concept like social isolation, but also necessary. Not just for our own sake, but for the greater good.
My heart grieves for those who have been taken by COVID or lost a loved one. There is no way to spin this into a positive for some.
But for those of us who are primarily inconvenienced–well–there is the opportunity for a lot of reflection and personal growth here. We can demonstrate that we care about others simply by wearing a mask in public. And by shifting our focus to the small (and yet grand) things.
Like waking up in the morning.
xo
life and breath: outliving lung cancer 
Every morning when I’m about to go for my swim I think, “It would feel so much better to stay in bed a bit..” But…I do it and of course afterwards I feel better. I cannot complain as I’m here, Now, and while it sucks to be alone I often reflect on what you are experiencing and feel proud to know you and do what I need to do!❤️✊🏽
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Always appreciate following you and trying to acquire such a healthy perspective as you share. Thank you!