Learning from others

Since my diagnosis I've had occasions to compare "life" with many who have been touched by cancer in one way or another and I've learned so much from them.
One close friend, in particular, has been especially good for me in her honesty regarding her own cancer journey. We have shared and compared challenges and we have both been able to find moments of humor along the way. Recently she passed a book on to me with a lovely inscription inside the cover, with the hope and expectation that it will be inscribed again and passed on to someone else who will appreciate it as we have. The book chronicles the lives of some very special women who have triumphed over their cancers and who have become better people for their experiences. I have been touched by their hope and their courage.
"I've changed my way of looking at life. I don't take things as seriously now. I love making people around me happy. I've lost the need to be in control. I never used to be emotional but now I cry...." (Julia). I think Julia is on the right track.
"Because of the experience, I've gained a lot of peace in my life. I just don't get as worked up about things as I did in the past." (Deirdre). Me, too, Deirdre!
"......let people into your life, let friends help you. Let them get you a cup of tea, even if you don't want one. It will help you feel less isolated and it will help them love you." (Deirdre again.)
"I don't just want to survive cancer. I want to put it behind me." (Kellee). I'll second that, Kellee!
And this one particularly touched me. "An interesting dynamic is that my husband is continually asked about me and I feel it's unfair that my disease has captured the spotlight and so colored his relationship with others. He's a patient person but [I'm sure that] he would rather discuss far more controversial topics [than those that] force him into my shadow." (Jo). I'm a little sad about that , too, Jo.
"So my advice to you is to trust yourself, trust God and let others into your life. Let them take care of you, and this, too, shall pass." (Georgia Ann). So beautifully spoken, Georgia Ann.
And these are only a few of the gems found within the pages of this beautiful book about the hope and courage of a few of many strong women who have met and are meeting their challenges well.
My prayer today is that I will never stop learning from others.