One of the aspects of living with cancer is the sense of perspective it gives us. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. By that I mean it causes us to re-evaluate what we’re doing. To pause, reflect and check. We can call it the value of Acceptance and Letting Go.
We need to let go of some things and to encourage others. Ideally it wouldn’t be cancer that is the stimulus, but it is in my case, and I’m sure in some others cases too.
Cancer is a jolt, it can stop you in your tracks, it can derail you, but it might offer something unexpected too. If cancer striking means we can’t maintain the status quo of our lives we can either shut off and hope for the best, or, if we can accept what is happening, whilst not necessarily being happy about it, we might get knocked about but perhaps we can deal with it better and move towards a recovery sooner?
We know we can’t go back in life, much as we might like, so how do we go forward in the best possible way?
Acceptance isn’t about giving in, it’s about a new beginning and playing an active role in what happens next. Slowing down, is a pretty good start. Taking stock of what you’re focused on, what you ‘re doing and how you’re doing it. Give yourself permission to slow down in order to heal, and ask for help where you need it. Perspective can help us to see that our current situation is a work in progress, just as everyone’s life is a work in progress of course. Cancer is an obstacle put in the way, but we can keep evolving, that’s the nature of things.
Acceptance is saying this is the beginning and what I’m going to do next is.........whatever is right for you. It’s a chance to make a commitment to take care of yourself, while facing your challenges. That’s taking care of yourself mentally and physically, recognizing what you can do, what you can’t do, and being realistic with yourself, to have the best possible chance of living well and encouraging recovery.
