Thankful Thursdays

Today marks R U OK Day, and it made me think about something that has been on my mind for a while… the act of asking.

I listened to this great audio yesterday talking about cancer psychology and the influence that mindfulness has on the patient’s wellbeing; but not only on their wellbeing… also the wellbeing of those affected by a loved ones diagnosis. Today, I want to highlight that it is not uncommon to experience physical disease or illness and also see mental illness closely aligned for a patient and their loved ones.

I heard recently that cancer is a “we” disease, and I completely agree. Although  cancer is experienced by the patient physically, its emotional trauma affects many within that patients immediate, and often wider circles. When something so traumatic as one’s health comes into play we often only treat the disease or the illness itself and forget about the emotional impact that this has on the patient, and their loved ones. Often many are left feeling helpless, hopeless, lost, unsupported, fragile and unable to function in their daily activities; and often many are too afraid to ask for help when they are already dealing with so much.

I spoke recently at the Melbourne Melanoma Forum about how I go about ensuring I don’t get swallowed into this place and the things that I have in my life that lift me up, what I focus on… but what I didn’t go into detail was what I do and how others have played a huge part in my life with cancer. And more specifically what impact cancer has had on my loved ones. This I may never really know truthfully.

What I am truly grateful for on this particular day where we highlight  “conversation” is how important and beneficial it has been for me to have so many beautiful souls asking how I am. They are such simple words but they mean so much. I am a bit of an over sharer at times and often leave some people lost for words but it is in those moments that I realise just how important conversation is and living in your truth really are.

But do we take the time to ask those who care for us the same in return?

Asking isn’t just limited to words, asking is inviting, it’s spending time together, it’s the quiet moments where there is nothing that needs to be said. It’s the shout outs  and the giggles, it’s the notes that you care. Asking is being! Asking is showing up. Asking is understanding without judgement.

Often the life of disease and illness is a lonely one. It can result in social isolation, the inability to travel or participate, it can mean financial insecurity, disability and a lack of understanding in a world where disease and illness is all too common. It also means a whole lot of TIRED. So when you are talking with your friends today and every other day remember the importance of asking… because it often leads to a grateful heart and a shared moment where you aren’t alone.

Are you okay?

What are you thankful for today beautiful Naked?

Need more tips?