Growing Gratitude
This time last year, I reflected on my first year living with cancer and chose to be thankful. I resolve to do this annually, as a reminder of the beautiful blessings that flourish all around me.
It is now been two years of living with cancer. A cancer, that when diagnosed, I was told would be chronic, slow and “inconsequential”; unfortunately it turned out to be unprecedentedly speedy at overwhelming my system. Yet in the midst of this whirlwind journey, I take time to be grateful. To position my heart in a place of thanksgiving. In order to flourish and thrive, I plant seeds of gratitude.
For 2024, here’s some of what I am so very thankful for...
Treatment
For treatment, full stop. In some countries, I’d be dead by now.
For a clinical trial, with drugs I wouldn’t have access to otherwise, being available just when I needed it.
For my nurse who is so kind, attentive and considerate.
For my doctor who takes time to answer all my questions, of which there are many!
For treatment drugs that have had but a few side effects and still allow me to function in normal life.
For a very smooth start to treatment with none of the serious risks.
For free access to a psychologist when I desperately needed one.
For people persistently advocating for better treatment options in New Zealand.
For my restored health!
Care & Connection
For all the support and inspiration I get from my husband to look after myself. To sleep, to eat well, to play, to retreat. For all he does to hold up our family when I am weak.
For the childish faith and contentment of my children. Despite all the cracks I see in the foundations of this world, all is well in their world. This gives me hope.
For loving parents and parents-in-laws who feel this journey deeply too.
For the genuine check-ins and touch points from the bros.
For friends and community that load us up with generous helpings of aroha (love), prayers and nourishing food.
For each text or call from near or far that offers heartfelt care, hugs, promises, encouragement and love.
For the wonderful people who have come around our boys to sow into their lives through friendship, fun, work and mentoring opportunities. I am so grateful for a community raising my children.
Thriving in Life
For getting up on my skis this year and racing down the mountain with my boys.
For our family’s fervent dancing at Anton’s big birthday, celebrated at womad.
For time with my Grandma, and other older people, capturing their Recollections, their stories; it is such an honor to sit with someone and hear their life legacy.
For moments of special connection, heart to heart, with precious people.
For my blog and vlog (which recently won an award!) and all the opportunities to encourage others through my story. I am so grateful for people’s precious and powerful responses to what I share.
For God providing our daily bread. Being sick takes it’s toll on finances, yet our basic needs are always met.
For music, praise & worship. On my worst days, their soothing sounds lift me off the floor.
For a marriage of almost 20 years... for living life with Anton through all the seasons!
For wonderful children, who are growing into great young men.
Growing Great Things
Although diagnosed with cancer, what I choose to live with is Courage, Love and Legacy. I think gratefulness is a legacy that can be sown, even in the harshest winter seasons. It’s one of those seeds that can still sprout and grow even in the hardest, driest, rockiest of soils. And when it’s in blossom it stands out, especially in an arid environment. People are drawn to it because they wonder how it came to be there. They can’t help but smile at it, because there’s an alluring beauty to be found in the bright boldness that declares “there is great things at work and I am not going to be dragged down!” As crazy as it can sound, sometimes I’m even thankful for my diagnosis because of the precious perspectives on life and love and priorities it has gifted me.
Courage, Love and Legacy | Points to Ponder
As this year draws to a close, turn your thoughts back over the last 12 months.
What has been good?
What has brought life?
What blessings have you experienced?
Where did you discover delightful surprises?
Make your own list of all that you are grateful for. As you do, feel your spirit lift and life sparkle.
Again my friend, this is the most beautifully written & inspirational cancer journey… Agreeing w/Jill, this could be a wonderful book… Be well, my friend… Wishing you everlasting love, happiness, & continued remission—indefinitely.🧡
Have really enjoyed reading your very vibrant posts Kylie. I feel you should put them together for a book. You have had a very alarming condition but you have coped with it in an amazing way. Have a happy Christmas and my prayers will be with you for a lovely summer.
Love Jill