A Silver Lining

The Winter Here has Been Quite Dreary weather-wise. So I thought I would share something beautiful that happened while my husband was sick. A silver lining, if you will.

Everything Happened Quickly

When my husband was diagnosed with brain cancer, it happened very fast. One day he was having trouble talking, and within hours we knew the possibility of brain cancer was there. Four days after arriving in the hospital, he was given last rites in case he died during brain surgery.

It was overwhelming and scary.

Here Comes the Good Part

But something else was happening, too. Friends, family, neighbors and acquaintances were showing up with emotional and physical support in the form of caring messages, meals, help with driving, and more.

Not only was this so helpful from a practical standpoint, it lifted our spirits enough to face what we were dealing with. And we knew we were not alone, no matter what happened. I cannot say in words how grateful we were to each and every person that showed up in some way to support us. It was an amazing and beautiful thing that sustained us for the two and a half years my husband was ill.

Don't Go it Alone

If you or someone in your family are dealing with a serious illness or loss, consider being open to receiving the love and care of others, however it shows up.

And don’t hesitate to ask for help. If you are not in the habit of advocating for yourself by asking for help, start now and get comfortable with it. Most folks are happy to and want to help. They feel good about alleviating some of your difficulties. (I know some of us were raised to act strong and turn down help, but this just isn’t healthy in most circumstances.) Ask doctors, churches, and other community organizations where you might find support if you are not familiar with your area. You literally cannot do this alone.

Reach Out

If you know someone going through an illness or difficult time, don’t underestimate how the smallest and kindest gestures can really help their reality. Consider reaching out in a way that makes sense for you -whether it’s a text, phone call, practical help or simply being present. Anonymous help works, too. No action is too small!

We are Stronger Together

It seems when we or others are facing big challenges, it gives us a reason to build community and strengthen bonds between people. “We all need to stick together in this life” someone said to me in passing recently. I couldn’t agree more.