The Sprit of My Path

We each find our own path with those we hold dear. Sometimes others can walk ahead and clear the way. Some can walk by our sides and help us along. Some can walk behind and cheer us on.

My take is that one of the best parts of the wonder of the journey is that I get to observe and learn along the way.

Part of what I've learned is that we've each got our own way of processing life. Mine seems to mean that - for the most part at least - I decide on a path and walk it, making changes as I go; not making a big deal about each obstacle on the journey, but considering it and doing what I can with what I've got.

I've learned to adapt and bend rather resisting and breaking. And I laugh when I read that line, for it's truly an acquired skill, and one born of necessity and over decades.

Now that's not to say I'm a Pollyanna. And yes I know I'm a "glass half full" person but with a twist of sass. That's likely a combination of how I was raised and how I'm hard wired, with a generous dash of life experience thrown in.

But what happens when one of these "big things" comes up along the way?

and believe me they have come up before just not so dramatically as my cancer diagnosis

First I think and process what I can before I react too much.What could be happening? What could I do?

• Perhaps a tree that's fallen in my way may have fallen ON me had I been there a bit earlier. That realization can change my view of it, bringing new discoveries and insights.
• Or it may just present an opportunity to sit down and figure out how to cross the obstacle
• Or it might lead me to take another path around it that will bring me to a wonderful new place.
• I might actually need the help of others, and that's something I'm learning to make the best possible use of as well, and hopefully with grace and gratitude.

Some have wondered if I'm fighting cancer or embracing it as part of my life. Perhaps they are seeing some of my reserve and introspection as acquiescence.

The truth is that I do not welcome Cancer any more than I welcomed fibromyalgia syndrome, or very ill children, or an early divorce. But realities are realities.

I do however welcome each day - not with a battling spirit perhaps - but with spirit nonetheless.  I welcome each day and each year, believing that it brings more opportunities to both enjoy the path but also to expand my vision and my experiences.

To those who want to show me a more enlightened path on my journey I thank them for thinking of me and wish them well on putting that to work in their way in their own lives; not being unduly influenced by my approach or too much upset by it.

No one can walk our walk for us or see it from our eyes. I'm at peace with my progress thus far and look forward to the rest of the road.

Comments

[Charles]

Susan, you are awesome and an inspiration to others on how to live. I'm so glad to have someone like you as a part of my path.

[drmiggy]

I loved every word of this post. Thank you for the inspiration!

[Dayngr]

Just remember that you are allowed and entitled to feel everything you are feeling, no matter what that may be at any given time. There is no need to apologize or feel bad. You'll have highs and lows and both are ok. Try to focus on the positive, that will get you through but it is ok to feel all the many different feelings and stages. Your friends, family and supporters will be here to cheer you on and keep you inspired as you go. You are not alone.