June 4, 2023
“As my medicine goes drip, drip, drip.
I observed something important today that made me realize we have the power to be kinder and gentler and to help others make our world better and more compassionate.
I was at the cancer center receiving care. Everyone in that building is suffering or offers help for the suffering. It’s a place of the exhausted, nauseated, and traumatized, yet it’s a place where the happiness vibe is alive and well. I hear and see pure concern, enthusiastic encouragement, and laughter. It flows back and forth between caregivers, patients, and staff.
Really! This is happening at cancer centers! So, I was wondering, what if we busted that level of care and encouragement out of the cancer center and into our communities? Just think of the difference that happiness vibe would make. Let’s give it a try!” ~Annette Eberlein
Annette's Facebook entry in mid-August, 2021...
Annette died one year to the day after she wrote this. This was her way of looking beyond her own struggles, and noticing the grace and beauty found in even the most painful circumstances. When her cancer returned, her first thought was “why me?” However, as she thought more about the bigger picture, she changed this to “why not me? …and even “why is this happening for me?” Even while fighting this horrible disease, she felt so grateful for so many things, and continued to find meaning in helping and supporting others.
Today is National Cancer Survivors Day. It’s a day to reflect on friends, family and so many others that are living with a history of cancer and the ongoing challenges many of them face. I’m also thinking of the friends and family I’ve lost to cancer—you are in my heart and thoughts.
Please, live each day for the amazing gift it is!
