This is dedicated to those of you who have struggled with illness or other disruptive life events like changes in job status or family issues.
When I was diagnosed with cancer five months ago, many very special people told me to give myself some grace during that time. I said thank you and carried on. It’s what I do. I asked for a little help, but not too much. I didn’t want to be a burden on others. It’s probably what you do too – right?
Along the way, I dropped a few balls. I missed a few deadlines. I did a little less, but still tried to keep up. Tried to keep delivering. As a small business owner, professional, mother, wife, sister, caregiver, it’s what we do – right? We try to keep going without anyone noticing.
I started feeling guilty. I wasn’t keeping up. My testers and editors were finding more issues. A few complaints showed up in my mailbox. I dealt with them swiftly and with many apologies. I was starting to get down. You have been there, I am sure. You start letting things get to you more than usual. And you deserve it right. You should have done things differently. You are kicking yourself.
Then, I remembered what others had said in the beginning. Give yourself some grace. What exactly does that mean?
I decided to look it up. Goodness knows there are enough answers on the internet. I found a wonderful article, which I will paraphrase here.
- No one is perfect. Pick happiness over perfection.
- Try to laugh instead of cry. Laughter is wonderful medicine.
- Set boundaries. Get better at saying NO and meaning it.
- Forgive yourself. You are probably your strongest critic.
- Change your mindset. Try finding silver linings instead of falling skies.
- Practice gratitude. Count your blessings.
- Be kind to yourself. Do something nice for you. You deserve it.
- Stop comparing yourself to others. The internet only shows you the extremes – people’s perfect moments or worst disasters, not their everyday lives.
- Celebrate the little things. Count the small VICTORIES. They add up.
- Let go. Put your negative feelings in a bubble and let them float away. It is a good mental exercise.
Why am I sharing this?? I know I am not alone in my struggles – cancer survivor or not. Small business owner or not. Wife, mother, daughter, sister… whatever label we use. We all struggle. We all need a little grace.
So today, I am going to practice a little gratitude. I am thankful for all of you who have been patient with me and shown me kindness, especially this year. You are wonderful and have really made a difference.
I am also going to celebrate a small victory. Today, I rang the bell.
Some of you know what this means. For those of you who don’t, it means my treatment is over. I have beat cancer.
It still means I have some preventative medicine to take. I still have to try to live a “healthy lifestyle”. I still need to be diligent about self-exams and mammograms. And so do you…
Thank you for everything
Wonderful news! Love that you got to ring that bell! Continued prayers.
Thank you so much!! I am truly blessed to have so many people like you in my life
I am so happy that you got to ring that bell loud!! Also, your “working with grace” message hit home with me with some things I’m going through right now. Thank you for that message, and please know…I ABSOLUTELY LOVE YOUR PATTERNS! Prayers to you and yours!
Thank you, Sandy!! I hope you are giving yourself some grace too. That has been the hardest part… letting go. If there is anything I can do to help – just let me know.
oh but this is wonderful news. congratulations. hope you rang the bell loud and hard (smiles and hugs)
I rang it with enthusiasm!!! 💗😁
Such good news. You continue to be in my prayers.
Thank you so much!! This has been such an extraordinary experience. It has been tough, but knowing so many people like you are out there for me makes it easier. 😊
So very proud of you my friend! I want to be just like you when I grow up (again – I’m waiting for the rewind button to work).
You do know that growing up isn’t all it’s cracked up to be 😉 you are such a wonderful friend and have helped me so much in this journey. 💗
I heard the bell when my husband was cleared from further treatment and the room appluded. Great news and stay well. Get out, ride a bike, pick some of the neighbors flowers (tee hee), have some fun.
Joan those are great ideas! Especially the flowers… my garden has been a little sad this year! 😉
Congratulations on ringing the bell! Glad this part is over for you! Mat the days ahead be easier and full of health, joy, laughter, and love!
that bell is ringing with joy, what a wonderful moment. and thank you for sharing your list, I’m working on it and having it in writing is perfect. i hope you will continue to “give yourself a bit of grace just because you’re human and deserve it.
We are all working on grace and hopefully we can continue to help each other. We all rise together.
Such AMAZING news, so happy for you! Wishing you continued health.
Thank you, Lorri! This has made me stronger in so many ways.
Keep positive and smiling.
Kathleen – Sending smiles your way!
So happy for you! I remember the day I got to ring the bell 🔔 GREAT! Stay strong and take care of you! Remember you are important and loved!
Sister survivor – thank you. That sound is so sweet!
Way to go. Glad you are in recovery. One day at a time works give yourself space.
Thank you, Jeanie! I am leaning more and more to be in the present. The rest will work itself out.
Sending love and light ♥ You are an ispiration to us all.
Thank you so much 🌞
Thank you so much 🙂