A co-worker and friend found out last week that she has a serious form of skin cancer on her shoulder then yesterday found out she also has breast cancer. The breast cancer is invasive so she will be undergoing a mastectomy and has decided she will have both breasts removed. She had also accepted a new job just days before receiving all this news and will be leaving her employment here on Thursday. I feel so bad for her!
She has been planning to retire from state service in 5 years. She and her husband purchased land in New Mexico and they plan to build a house there when they retire. Her medical issue reminds me that we never know what may be around the corner. We plan life times but never know what may happen to alter those plans. You just have to live one day at a time. But that's what life is about, being fully present in the moment.
As a friend we sometimes struggle to know what to say to someone dealing with a crisis or grief. I've learned over the years that it isn't about saying the "right" thing. In fact, words aren't even that necessary. Just being present for a person and willing to listen or just sitting quietly with someone. I can't remember the words spoken to me after my father's death but I remember every person who was there.
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1 month ago
4 comments:
Yes, there is so much wisdom in your words.
As your previous post also illustrates, we never know what's gonna happen. But, truer words were never spoken: "Just being present for a person and willing to listen or just sitting quietly with someone. . . "
I'm so sorry your co-worker has this unexpected battle to fight. Life unfolds in totally unexpected ways, moment by moment, and we have no choice but to face them. But it's so much easier if we have someone to turn to when we need a steadying hand. As you say, it's being there for someone that counts.
Hugs from Deb in Canader
You are right you just never know. I have seen friends face unexpected illness and I think why am I waiting to retire? It comes down to money...
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