It’s actually pretty easy and yet difficult at the same time. Whatever you want in life, whatever dream you have, it’s a process, there is no overnight sensation, you better practice, you better be disciplined, you better have a plan. But do it right, make the choice to make it happen, follow that plan and you’ll get there. Just don’t forget to carry a critical element along the way, patience.
I am making progress, slow and steady. The book about the journey my wife and I have been on through breast cancer, It Takes Two. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story, is moving forward. The update is this, I have completed an interview with the head of a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the survivors of breast cancer. She and her staff help those whether they have a strong support system, or are forced to go it alone. Her insights, perspective and positive attitude are enlightening and inspiring. I am working on one to two interviews with breast surgeons and those who handle the reconstruction process. I think it’s important to have some expert points-of-view either in the book, or as a book “extra”, either in print or audio format. Those points still to be decided.
I had the honor of speaking to the group at the Relay for Life in Towson a few weeks back and read an excerpt of one of the journal entries, there was such silence, you could have heard a pin drop. I also mentioned the book in the works. I recently heard from one of the organizers how those in attendance are asking to be able to follow the updates and are anticipating the book launch. It’s coming, we’re getting there, and I will have more on those details soon.
A cover for the book is in production now, and I am looking forward to seeing the options available. I have also started going through the journal entries again, to make sure everything flows. As I read them, I can see the message, the story and know there is value for those going through the same journey, about to face the journey and those who know what we have been through.
Value is the key.
A journey shared, a life’s story can have value. Words have value. Words have power. It’s been demonstrated time and time again. Caring, gratitude, love and appreciation all harness power. I just finished reading the book, The Choice, by Og Mandino. The main character is Mark Christopher and his speech at the end of that book is uplifting and inspiring. Mark is an insurance agent who also becomes a great author and public speaker. Hmmmmmm. Here is an excerpt from that speech. I’ll leave you with these powerful words:
“Henceforth, I will take every risk and embrace every opportunity that may provide a better life for me and my family. I no longer believe that a rolling stone gathers no moss. Better to be in motion, even if the energy is wasted, than buried forever in a shady plot. That will come soon enough. I will despise myself later if I look back on my life and realize that I had the talent and the ability to do great things, but could not find the courage to try. I know what I can do, and I know how little I have done. I have frittered away opportunities like children at the seashore who fill their hands with sand and then let the grains all fall through their open fists. It is not too late for me. I can still fill my hands. I can still shape a future of success and happiness. I am capable of great wonders, and now I know that my achievements will never rise higher than my faith in myself. I have new faith. I was made in the image of G-d. I was not created to fail. Defeat? Possible. Quit? Never again!”
Until next time, thanks for taking the time.
Mark
You are an incredible writer.
Thanks for your kind thoughts Debbie.