Lord, when that thought came into my brain years ago about becoming famous—at 54—this wasn’t exactly what I had in mind. While there isn’t anything necessarily famous about my sit-chee-a-shun … I’ll make it so by virtue of how I handle it. And you’ll be there with me, every step of the way. I really, really believe that.
I’ve been diagnosed with diffuse large cell lymphoma, and that’s the last time I’ll use that word here. I won’t mention the “C” word. Wallowing, moaning & groaning will get me no-where. NOwhere. It’s 2010; advances in medicine are vast. Cures are common and in most cases, expected. I’ve had a week full of tests, and I stand to have a week or so more before that other “C” word—chemotherapy—becomes a regular part of my world.
I prefer to put my brain power and energy into the positive. Life continues. I’m gonna grow a set of cohones the likes of which many have never seen … not a pretty picture, but picture it, anywho. Give yourself a good giggle.
Here’s what I’ve learned. Take serious notes. YOU may need this advice.
1. All who keeping saying you need to stop and smell the roses—fercryinoutloud, stop talking. Do it.
2. If you’ve wanted to do something for a long time but say you don’t have time … trust me, you have time. If you continue with that useless litany, shame on you. It wasn’t that important after all.
3. Everything has a shelf life. Deal with it.
4. The idea that we should tell those we love how we feel ain’t just words. Go for it, every chance you get.
5. Laugh, laugh, laugh. Laugh you’re a** off, at everything. How can this be a bad idea?
6. Have faith. Believe. You are what you think. My God told me that, and God’s right. Always.
7. Life changes in an instant—in small ways or humongous ways. Be prepared and be flexible.
8. Learn from everything. Everything.
9. Prepare to be famous. For something. It’s coming your way.
10. Take your bra off as soon as you get in the house … an important “feel-good” moment.
I will not entertain negativity. I’ve no misconceptions of a walk in the park … but I’ll act as if I’m not only walking in the park, but stopping to smell those loverly flowers along the way. I’m enjoying the sunshine, and the Sonshine, and thankful for every blessed God-given moment. I am what I believe.
YOU are what you believe. Let’s be famous together … and tell the world about it. Find the highest mountain, have faith, start laughing—and make sure you always take your bra off ASAP for comfort.
Linda - my prayers & thoughts are with you always. They are all positive. You've certainly been a good influence on me in the short time we've known each other. What would life be without the Guac! I have one to add to your list (due to something that happened to me today). If someone says or does something that offends you, take the time to tell them & explain why. It may be a misunderstanding. Don't you owe it to both them & yourself? Keep it positive. (In my case, I'm still waiting to find out why this person is offended. I have no idea). Keep your thoughts positive & your head held high.
ReplyDeleteWhat a positive and uplifting post. Thank you for sharing this!!! I really do appreciate the opportunity to read it and reverberate over on my blog --- stay tuned. I'll try to let you know when I'm done.
ReplyDeleteLinda, my dear, I am at first very sorry to hear of your situation and secondly I will be sending you good thoughts and vibes like you never got snent before!
ReplyDeleteKeep that positive outlook and life will be so worth living and it will certainly get you through the rough times ahaed.
Pleae take care and know that I am thinking of you!!
MIke Barnu
Hopefully you can make sense out of the above spell check free post! LOL!
ReplyDeleteTake care,
Mike Barnum
Thx, all, for reading & commenting. And Ann ... you're right. That's an excellent bit of advice. There is that saying, so true, "Don't sweat the small stuff." And to follow up what you said, if you DO start to sweat it--not seeming so small to you--chat w/the other person involved. We all come to life from our very own platform ... & understanding is the key to making it work well.
ReplyDeleteLinda,
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry about your diagnosis but know you are strong and a positive thinker. None of us are guaranteed smooth sailing and you are so right about taking time to smell the flowers. I'll continue to send you positive thoughts and wishes for the best.
Take care of yourself.
Linda,
ReplyDeleteI am very very sorry to hear this. Please know that I am sending you positive thoughts and prayers- and if you need anything at all- please do not hesitate to call. Best,
Patti
Your positivity will contribute to your total healing. I saw it happen with lots of people who shouldn't have made it. I pray that your journey will continue to be filled with hope, and that the world will tap into this blog and be inspired. I'm going to do my part to promote it.
ReplyDeleteI love you, sister, and this is just one more reason of many tht you are a DIVA!!!
Beautiful post that is a gift to us all. Thank you Linda for your humor and for the kind of "life" insight I need to be reminded of every so often. I'm praying for you and sending much love and support.
ReplyDeleteLinda,
ReplyDeleteIf every word I said could make you laugh, I'd talk forever.