Comments on: The big picture

By: letitia

letitia — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:52:58 +0000

I thought this post was poignant when I read it a few weeks ago. I even posted it on the corkboard above my laptop so I would remember to think about it.

And then this weekend, I learned that someone very close to me has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is meeting with her surgeon today to know what her options are. I’m terrified for her but also hoping for the best.

I wanted to share this only because I wanted to let you know how even more meaningful your post is to me now. Thank you!

By: Leslie

Leslie — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 19:25:41 +0000

Thank you for an excellent post putting things in perspective. I hope your friend’s surgery is successful and she has a speedy recovery.

By: Katie Morton

Katie Morton — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:30:42 +0000

I truly hope all goes well with your friend’s recovery.

I just wrote a post on focusing on what matters. Your post here just made me go back and re-read it to make sure I’m airtight.

By: Amber

Amber — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 01:09:50 +0000

My prayers go out to you and your friend. I had brain tumor surgery just a year ago. I’m a teacher and missed two months of work last Spring and had radiation in the summer. I’m lucky that it wasn’t cancer but was shocked when told it was a big as my fist and I’d had it 10 – 20 years!!

It was the scariest year of my life but also a very blessed and humbling one. So many people prayed for me and helped me — and many made me laugh too. And yes I learned to appreciate life, friends, family and the little things even more — we just never know what tomorrow will bring so enjoy today, and be with those you love.

By: Anne

Anne — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:13:46 +0000

Two of my Christian gf’s had brain tumors. They discovered them a year ago. One died (peacefully in her sleep) last week after major surgery, chemo and prayer. One is doing great, after major surgery, chemo and prayer. You just don’t know God’s plans. You’re right, carpe vitam.

By: Nine

Nine — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 07:00:08 +0000

Thank you for this post and I hope your friend will be able to make a good and speedy recovery.

When I read this post it felt like a punch in the solar plexus. A friend of mine recently heard that he has an aggressive form of cancer. He has been in treatment for the past few weeks but is now home once again. Most likely he does not have much time left. Hearing this news and going to see him made me realise how life can change from one moment to the next.

Ever since I heard the news I have tried to enjoy every single moment of every single day. When something or someone annoys me, I deliberate and decide whether it is worth my energy and time to be annoyed. Most of the time I decide that there are better things I could be doing.

Whatever happens (we are still hoping for some kind of miracle regarding my friend’s illness) my friend shows me that it is better to enjoy every moment than to regret later that I rushed my life.

Thank you again for this post. And I wish you and your friend lots of strenght and good luck in the recovery process!

By: schmei

schmei — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 05:16:19 +0000

Thank you for this post. I’m keeping your friend in my thoughts and prayers.

Someone I love dearly who is pregnant with a very much anticipated baby just got some scary news about complications, and I’ve been carrying my worry and prayers for her and her husband and the baby around with me this weekend, too.

You’re so right. You never know what people are going through… but we’re all going through life, so the only certainty is that it’s not all easy.

Sending prayers and good thoughts to your friend. And to you.

By: gypsy packer

gypsy packer — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 20:14:21 +0000

Take care of yourself and your friend. Wishing both of you a good outcome.
Thank you for the reminder that some people, like volcanoes, vent under stress.

By: Claycat

Claycat — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:34:10 +0000

Erin, I’m so sorry about your loved one! I will pray for her speedy recovery.

Kaz, I pray that your husband gets well quickly and makes it to the birthday. I’m sorry about your son’s teacher as well. You are having a struggle! Take care!

By: Jo

Jo — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 20:54:16 +0000

Life can change in an instant. It changed for a dear family member of mine, and I’ve been so aware of that ever since.
@ Kaz in Oz – wishing you strength and comfort and hope.

By: SimplyJo

SimplyJo — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 16:57:38 +0000

Sorry I meant to add – please take care of yourself Erin through this also. I was 36 weeks pregnant when my family member was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour and I neglected my own health. It seemed so insignificant in comparison. As I said I wish you all the very best…

By: SimplyJo

SimplyJo — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 16:22:44 +0000

As someone who knows exactly what you are going through I had to post this comment. Tomorrow I run a half marathon in aid of Brain Tumour UK raising money toward research in this country which is much needed. I wish you and your friend all the very best during this challenging time. It is so wonderful to hear about the reputation of the hospital she is being treated in over in the US. You are so right in your post – my moto now is ‘Don’t sweat the small stuff’. All the very best…

By: irsihbell

irsihbell — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 14:23:19 +0000

“Tell your friend that in his death, a part of you dies and goes with him. Wherever he goes, you also go. He will not be alone.”
I love this, it’s possibly one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard.
Through all of these stories of pain and sorrow I hear such positivity and strength and beauty. I am in awe.

By: Lou

Lou — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:12:54 +0000

@ Kaz in Oz. What a pile-up of awful events! I do hope you catch a break soon. Meanwhile, you’re in my prayers.

By: Claudia

Claudia — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 05:16:49 +0000

This is a great post, and so true. Since I found out that my mom has cancer, priorities have shifted, and I find myself being more forgiving and kind. Good luck to your friend.