Picking Up the Pieces

"It's not what you go through that defines you; you can't help that. It's what you do after you go through it, that defines who you really are." - Unknown

I love this quote.  I think it applies to all of us, no matter what you are enduring or what you have endured.  We all endure strife in our lives at some point.  What's that saying, "nobody gets out of here alive?"  But it's what you do with your life after the experience which defines you.  Do you pick up the pieces and help others through what you've endured?  Or do you wallow in a lifelong pity party and never recover?  Does the experience define you?  Or do you allow it to enrich the tapestry of your life?  Do you use it as a springboard to better yourself ~  to find you have more strength, more endurance, more spirit than you ever knew?  Do you use it to grow personally, spiritually, physically and to expand your life?  Or do you wither, weaken. grieve and wallow in your troubles?

As many of you know, I am a breast cancer survivor.  My disease changed me in so many ways, many definable and many so subtle that it's taken years for me to see the changes that this experience gave to me.  I am grateful for the lessons learned through that experience although I will never say that I am happy that I had breast cancer.  The experience has gifted me with understanding, courage and deep friendships for which I am ever grateful.  Sure, it's been a long journey (and it still is).  There have been potholes, tears, fears and grieving for what's been lost forever.  There are memories lost to a chemo-riddled brain and there's a body which has more scar tracks than a train yard.  There are lifelong limitations which plague me daily.  There is sadness for what is lost, what is lacking and what is missed.  But there's also gratitude for what is, what's come into my life which is good and for being here today and now.  Sure I could go on and on about the hell I've survived and I will share if you're enduring the same.  I don't want you to feel alone because I'm offering you my hand, my friendship, my understanding.

My blog is aptly named because I cherish The Presents of Presence.  I hold dear the preciousness of today for none of us is guaranteed a tomorrow.  I am filled with gratitude for this moment in time and I am determined to make the most of it.  I am blessed.  I know it and I want you to feel it as well.

What about you?  Do you feel that way about your experience?  Please share!

Shine On!

xo

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