Chris

Chris will start chemotherapy a week after we get back from our Motorcycle trip in early August.  This week he is getting another bone scan to determine how extensive the cancer is. 

Chris is worried about being treated differently now and worries he will get deferential treatment.   I told him he was a dumb ass.   Getting the best seat, the shady spot, the first cold beer, gives us all the illusion that we are doing something for him in his time of need.  I told him to accept these gestures with quiet grace and appreciate that his close friends are attempting to help in the only way they really can.   We all realize that we cannot carry this weight for him.  But by being there, we will lighten the weigh he has to carry periodically. 

So a couple of things for you here.

There are times you have to carry weight and there are times when you elect to carry weight.   In both cases you will always have to bear the weight by yourself.  Not even the best meaning, well intentioned people who love you will understand how heavy that weight is.  BUT, allowing them to reach out to you, to accept the small graces they can offer can most certainly lighten the load from time to time.  The weight will always be heavier if you elect to carry it without allowing other people to attempt to help.  Never make it heavier than it has to be and if you can let someone lighten your load and theirs.

Always assume things are bigger than you.  Having this perspective will always allow you to excel in the toughest of circumstances.

Never underestimate the power of saying your prayers.  Get in the habit of asking for the wisdom to see the already considerable gifts that have already been given to you.

Love Dad