The past few weeks has been tough in first finding out my sister had cancer and yesterday waiting for the results of her surgery.  To our relief and gratitude she is now cancer free.  During this period, our family has heard from many other folks with illnesses.  It’s almost as if we’ve become a member of that club, albeit reluctantly, putting us in direct contact with those who are ailing or suffering.  I also notice that health issues are more of a constant converation topic between those I’m in contact with who are mid-life plus.

How does one have the capacity to take it all in and not blow a gasket?

While I felt myself on a rollercoaster ride with my emotions over my sister, I also felt it was an opportunity for a deeper connection and strengthening of myself.  Not the stoic kind that doesn’t feel any emotion, but rather a healthy resolve to feel what was needed and not let myself get crushed by it.

There is plenty of hurtful or painful experiences one can witness, be informed of, or even find oneself in the middle of at times.  You will pass through them.  How quickly and flawlessly is up to you.  Will it be a heavy weight that drags you down or will you be able to rise above it?  The choice is up to you.  If you’re a generally healthy person, you have as much capability of this as anyone else.

It’s important not to become a victim of your (or other people’s) circumstances.  Say no to suffering and count on a return to happiness and appreciation which you can expedite with your optimistic attitude.  Life isn’t cruel by nature, but it is a challenge that sometimes means you’ll crash against walls and you can either tear them down, go around them, or just take the bruises and move on to what’s next.