What a lovely time of year to recuperate in New England! Since survival is about focusing on life and its inevitable cycles, it behooves me to see the amazing beauty in every season, even as the vibrant life of summer gives way to the glory of autumn transition. I'm not sure why this 70 year old body is able to heal more easily than many. Clearly I came into this adventure with physiological strength not available to many. But there's so much more to it.
I was able to walk around our across the street parking lot five times today - getting stronger as I write. I do have down days - yesterday was a kind of "blue" day, with unusual exhaustion and lack of initiative. But a part of survival is allowing oneself to visit those places, to recognize the emotions, and move on. Like the Buddhist meditation advice when trying to clear the mind, allowing those emotions to pass by like leaves in the stream - acknowledging them but observing as they pass on.
I think I am able to do this because I stay engaged with so many folks. I believe a community of support is essential - a community that supports the condition but doesn't just view me through the lens of the big "C". We cancer survivors are the same people we were before diagnosis, with just an overlay of consciousness about mortality and the need to appreciate each day, each season.
In addition, involvement in creative activities has been such a large part of this process for me. And I say to those who say "I'm not creative" - everyone is creative - everyone can express themselves creatively through their strengths. So I continue to move towards re-entry (thanks Buzz Lightyear - to Infinity and Beyond!) with applause for all who are my supportive family! xx
