curlygirl's Cancer Blog
July 15, 2008
| Be Specific | Views: 984 |
Several years ago, Tim and I went on vacation with my Dad and his wife in the Utah desert. All week, my Dad talked excitedly about a hike we would be taking on Thursday through a nearby canyon. I had a really bad feeling in my gut about this hike and I spent all week praying that it would rain on Thursday. When we awoke on Thursday, it was a gorgeous, sparkling day, so we packed up a little food for lunch and went off on our canyon hike. Once we were in the canyon, it started to sprinkle a little. Then, before we knew it, we were caught in an honest-to-goodness flash flood. Really, this is completely true. What should have been about a 3-hour hike turned into a 9-hour adventure that we were truly lucky to have survived.
What did I learn from this? When praying, be specific. I put in a request for rain on Thursday, and I got it! I should have been more specific about the timing…
I mention this because, for the past several months I have been feeling like what I really need in my life is a sabbatical. I was praying for some sort of big change in my life that would allow me take a time-out and turn my energy and attention to the things I really value in my life. Obviously, breast cancer was not what I had in mind! When am I going to learn to be more specific?!
Although… Of course, I would never wish to get cancer, but so much of my prayer really has been answered. I sure have had the opportunity to turn my attention to the important things in life! I’m reminded every day of the wonderful, loving family and friends I have. I have the opportunity to slow down and enjoy my home, my garden, my cat, and my husband. I have the mental space and energy to write for my own pleasure. I am learning to truly relax into life and see it for what it is, not what I want it to be.
I know that things are unlikely to always feel so easy during treatment. For now, though, I will revel in the opportunities that have presented themselves to me. If last week was any indication, a big store of positive thinking will help to make the rough times more bearable.
12.17.08 - 
Auntie Carole 
Thanks for your support -
So true. My Mom always told me that everything happens for a reason. Sometimes we know the reason but many times we may never know.
God be with you. Stay positive.
My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Hugs,
Joyce
Kathy, you are really amazing. Your ability to find the message in the madness is inspirational. Reading through your entries, I’m sure you’ll be back in the swing of things in no time! And in the interim, if you need anything heavier than a folded t-shirt lifted, call anytime.
Om shanti,
Mary