TO FIND MEANING IN PAIN
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Greetings!
I am very happy to inform everyone that my treatment of fighting cancer is going quite well. On Tuesday, I underwent a PET/CT scan to check for more cancer, especially in the area where the tumor was removed. At this time, there are no indications of additional cancer in my body. Although, my oncologist informed me that I still have to continue the current protocol of taking chemotherapy by way of subcutaneous injections to hopefully prevent another recurrence.
Also, he was somewhat concerned about my weight loss. As for me, I said to him "Doc, you may have concerns about my weight, but I am very happy to be able to fit in all my suits again" ;-D
With heartfelt gratitude and joy, I would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this time.
I know that fighting cancer can take a toll on anyone, especially on family, friends and loved ones. However, as for me, I endeavor to see all the blessings from this experience. In my Bible reading, He impressed upon me the following scripture verse:
"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing." (James 1:2-4)
Likewise, Viktor Frankl once wrote:
"Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way." (Man's Search for Meaning)
Both pain and meaning, as indicated in the above quotes by St. James and Frankl, respectively, are uniquely juxtaposed together to offer me an opportunity to grow in spirit and in wisdom - both priceless blessings wrought out of this ordeal.
So, as I continue to undergo treatment, my focus now is not primarily on my physical discomfort, but on the chance to grow into a better man, husband, son, grandson, uncle, nephew, brother, coworker, and friend to those around me.
Peace to you all.
ajh
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