Talking about my history in my previous post didn't leave me with a sense of shame like it would have in the past. It left me with a sense of wonder. As human beings, we survive through the tough times. As I watched Maxine become sicker and sicker, I became used to the negative that life has to offer. It is extraordinarily painful to watch someone you love deteriorate with a mental illness. But what I didn't recognize at the time is the life lessons that Maxine and her illness provided me. It shaped who I am. It shaped my value systems. And as such, I can see the positive in the experience. Maxine became a gift.
Why am I thinking about this? Because I'm recognizing the gift in the life and death of Brittany Maynard. This courageous young woman made a choice to end her life when it became clear that she was facing a difficult death as a result of brain cancer. Having watched as a friend experienced the loss of her husband through brain cancer, I know that the horror of such a death is real. Brittany chose a peaceful ending to her life. One in which she protected herself and her family from the inevitability of a more protracted and painful end.
In the process, Brittany shared with us who she was in this world. This young woman lived with her focus squarely on possibility. As she completed her bucket list, and went to the Grand Canyon, her commitment to life was on display. I was awed at the strength and courage in a woman so young. Brittany Maynard had not reached thirty years of age prior to her death. She leaves loving relationships behind at her passing. Not the least of which is a loving husband. They took their vows a scant two years before her death.
So, what does this lead me to? It leads me to have some perspective regarding my own history. I'm here today. My depression hasn't killed me. Unlike many others, I'm getting a glimpse of the joy I can find in life. I have my daughter and loving friends. A roof over my head and food in my mouth. I'm still functioning in spite of health concerns. I can see outside to the pretty Tennessee sunshine. And I'm looking forward to a lovely walk outside later. I even have a job that I enjoy. Peace. Contentment. And the example of Brittany Maynard to prove that it is my responsibility to accept the things I cannot change. And to change the things I can.
What about you? Can you relate to this discussion? Let's talk!!
Why am I thinking about this? Because I'm recognizing the gift in the life and death of Brittany Maynard. This courageous young woman made a choice to end her life when it became clear that she was facing a difficult death as a result of brain cancer. Having watched as a friend experienced the loss of her husband through brain cancer, I know that the horror of such a death is real. Brittany chose a peaceful ending to her life. One in which she protected herself and her family from the inevitability of a more protracted and painful end.
In the process, Brittany shared with us who she was in this world. This young woman lived with her focus squarely on possibility. As she completed her bucket list, and went to the Grand Canyon, her commitment to life was on display. I was awed at the strength and courage in a woman so young. Brittany Maynard had not reached thirty years of age prior to her death. She leaves loving relationships behind at her passing. Not the least of which is a loving husband. They took their vows a scant two years before her death.
So, what does this lead me to? It leads me to have some perspective regarding my own history. I'm here today. My depression hasn't killed me. Unlike many others, I'm getting a glimpse of the joy I can find in life. I have my daughter and loving friends. A roof over my head and food in my mouth. I'm still functioning in spite of health concerns. I can see outside to the pretty Tennessee sunshine. And I'm looking forward to a lovely walk outside later. I even have a job that I enjoy. Peace. Contentment. And the example of Brittany Maynard to prove that it is my responsibility to accept the things I cannot change. And to change the things I can.
What about you? Can you relate to this discussion? Let's talk!!
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