Unicorns, Kindness & Magic: Life Lessons in the midst of a cancer diagnosis.
Greetings!
Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.” – Lao Tzu
I’m getting a first hand insight to healthcare in Sweden. If I can sum it up my experience in one word? I’d say kindness.
No one wants to hear the “C-word” after a doctor check up. Neither did my dad, but alas- here we are. The kindness we’ve seen and experienced from receptionists to doctors has been overwhelming.
Here are a few thoughts and reflections on my journey with dad’s cancer diagnosis:
Use your senses to be in the experience, to be present. While I was waiting for my dad at the Hospital of Lund University, I noticed a unicorn and a poster from Chicago Art Institute- reminding me that life is magical! No matter how difficult a situation is, there’s always beauty, aliveness and we get to create our experiences.
Practice living “here and now and in the present moment” because that’s all there is. It’s been 6 weeks now since I came here from the States - 6 weeks of what seems like endless appointments and lots of waiting. All we can do is take the very next step in front of us.
Be flexible. Life doesn’t happen on my timetable…nor when it’s convenient for me, or when it fits into my schedule. (Darn!) Going with the flow and learning how to pivot quickly is becoming a valuable skill.
Breathe. Bottom line: You’ll feel better. And you’ll live longer.
Family continues to be a complex, complicated constellation that fascinates me. I’m learning more about love, forgiveness and compassion. There’s always room for more. Even when you think you’ve reached max capacity. Oh, and patience! More of that too.
Lastly. Kindness is never wasted. Kindness makes a big difference and there’s no small act of kindness. Kindness can change a person’s life.
So, be kind. Love more. Worry less. Be present. Take one day at a time. And notice the unicorns…and other magical reminders that life is precious.
To Powerful, Positive Change…Cheers!