Looking for the Silver Lining

Finding the silver lining is difficult when you're at the apex of a life and death situation.  Naturally we focus on the more fearful aspects first.  But we can't live long with an out of control racing heart.  Eventually we slow down and then we can choose to shift our point of view.  The ability to shift is important, because holding a positive outlook leads to a longer, healthier and happier life.  I'm not an advocate of falsely proclaiming life to be great when, in truth, it utterly stinks, as it sometimes does.  But there are almost always benefits to be found in a given situation.  It requires making a conscious effort to find them.  Sometimes it takes repeated efforts. 

I've started compiling an impressive list of positives that have come of this leukemia crisis/opportunity and I plan to continue adding to it, although much will take time and perspective to come to the surface.  I don't know if I'll ever be able to share it all.  Many of my positive outcomes are so personal and, despite the blog, I'm a private person by nature.  Perhaps, someday. For now, it's enough to say that having such a list helps me get through bad days.  In the long haul, looking for the silver lining redirects my energy and helps me set a course of action for myself. It reminds me that there is a reason we're going through all this.

And now, for the weekly clinic report, if you're not too bored by good news.  Roger gained back two pounds this week.  Aside from that, he didn't do anything newsworthy.  I think his docs are losing interest in his case.  That's alright.  In this environment, it's good to be boring.
--Candi