Lessons on Living

As I previously mentioned, Ann, one of my co-workers and friends, has recently been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Ann has created a blog on CaringBridge and every day she posts to keep her family and friends up to date. In a little over a week, there have been over 1,100 visits to Ann's site, which is reflective of how much she is loved and also, I think, of the courage, grace and humor with which she is facing her current situation.

Every day I read what Ann has posted and there are lessons to be learned in watching this amazing woman create a community amongst all of the people who know her from the many chapters in her life. You see, even in the midst of this life-changing diagnosis, Ann is positive, focused on love and bringing people together. Here are a few of the lessons I have learned:

(These are Ann's words, not mine.)

• Life is learning about the world and yourself in that world.
• I like to think of being pulled along by joy rather than pushed by fear.
• Let your kites and your hearts fly free! No strings.
• No weeping, sobbing, tears, or deep sighs please.
• Jesus? I’m a fan of the man, but not a believer in the God. I like his message of love, peace, and generosity. I'd like it if more of his followers actually lived his lessons.
• I have faith that the power of love is stronger and longer lasting than the power of hate.
• You are like a strand of strong, beautiful pearls: each one on the string contributing to the wholeness of my life.
• Don't you think this is what a resume should look like? Not "look at what I've done" but "look at the people in my life?"
• Whoever said, “You’ll feel better after a good cry” was WRONG! I always feel worse. Now, a good laugh, a deeply belted out song – those will make me feel better!
• You also know that I am more comfortable with a half-assed plan than no plan at all. Make a plan! Who cares if you don’t know all the info? You’ll NEVER know all the info! Go. Do. Be. Make a list of things to do and then do them!
• OK, everybody. In Angie’s honor – go out there and do something that makes you want to shit your pants. It could be physical, or social, or emotional. What are you AFRAID of?? Do it anyway.
• “Sorry, this trumps your stupid little problems. Get over it! Get over yourself. Get over your fear. Realize that so much of what makes you nuts doesn't matter. What the f are you waiting for?????”
• This is the day folks! The one you have. What are you looking forward to? Do something that will build your capacity and resilience. (You never know when you’ll need it.)

Though her current situation has taken Ann out of the classroom, she continues to teach with every post and comment she makes on her blog. And I, for one, am thankful to be learning these lessons!