I started this entry on a note of frustration, as I have been in a bit of funk for the past few weeks. I was going to write about it, not in any sort of depressing way. There have been moments of reprieve, but, the frustration keeps hitting back.
Things took a decidedly different tone after my first paragraph. There was a gift bag at my doorstep that I hadn’t seen earlier in the day. It’s common for that to happen. The gifts in the bag were extremely thoughtful, as always. The generosity of everyone around is very humbling! I have people I have never met praying for me, and sending me things to keep my spirits motivated.
These things are such blessings. It’s not the gifts (they are wonderful and some things took a lot of thought and time), it’s the people and the thoughts behind the gifts. The fact that so many people have taken the time to let me know that I am in their thoughts is just so very humbling.
There are many things that I still cannot do, and the chemotherapy causes depression. It can be hard being at home and seeing things that you would like to do or fix… Through the frustration and bouts of the “blahs”, there have been many blessings. The biggest being my family and friends. Both have come to my rescue on several occasions.
Take tonight, for example. Thankfully, the very thoughtful gift lifted my mood. I would have been just fine with that, and I would have been content to just do a little writing. Instead, I got a call from a great friend in Texas. We talked, and laughed, and talked, and laughed some more. We talked about the past, the present, and the future. She is coming for an extended visit this summer. I cannot wait!! The only soreness I have tonight is in my cheeks and belly from laughing so hard for one and 1/2 hours.
It’s easy to get caught up in circumstances. I remind myself that I am not my circumstances, they are just temporary. Recently, I had some friends come by for a visit and lunch. They are sisters and have been dealing with a huge loss. We laughed and encouraged one another to stay strong. They too, are able to see a restful or peaceful moment amidst all the chaos that can be our lives sometimes.
I am a very blessed lady! I am so thankful for the people I have in my life. I am also thankful for the ones that God has looking after me, that I have yet to meet. I see the blessings when they show up at my doorstep, bearing smiles and what will undoubtedly be a great time. Phone calls and cards from treasured friends are also great medicine for this girl’s soul. Even with cancer, life is pretty damned great. I know who is in my tribe and that is the real blessing.
Much love,
Jody
“Talk about your blessings more than you talk about your burdens.” – Unknown
This Thing Called Life 