The expression “everything happens for a reason” annoys and upsets some people because it suggests that our path is predetermined and that The Fates or God is in charge of our life. The idea that my beautiful, perfect, angelic mum is terminally ill with cancer, is meant-to-be is frustrating and unfair; but the reality of it is that we have no control over our outside world. So I choose to think “in everything I have to find my own reason”. Instead of asking “why did this happen to me?” I ask myself “What positive thing can I find in this?” By focusing on the positive of any situation (and trust me if you look hard enough you’ll find it) I help keep myself positive and happy.
I still remember what the lady at Wellspring said to me when we went into to get some help after mum's initial diagnosis. I told her that I was upset because this massive unfairness in our lives has changed me indefinitely and that I would never be the same again. She told me that we have not changed as a family nor have we changed as people...we are still the exact same as we were before all of this entered our life...the only thing that has changed has been oursituation...I wasn't planning on sharing this picture but it's just how we felt at the time. We've had lots of laughs since this time....
The good wouldn’t be as sweet without the bitterness of the bad. You go through the tough times to strengthen you for the excruciating ones to come. It’s in experiencing these tough times where you will truly be able to live with gratitude for what you have that is good.
“Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet.”
~Bob Marley
I love you guys ker, thx for sharing with your full heart on your sleeve again... Just even being able to be one of the people that your mom shares her heart and smiles with us truely an honor...again your determination to find the good in all is your strongest quality.. I admire you both, xo
ReplyDeleteErin
Its a beautiful picture, very raw and honest. I'm glad you were able to share it. You are wise beyond your years, Keryn. I'm trying to take a page from your book.....its a sad time, and sometimes very difficult to find the good. I really really admire you.
ReplyDeleteI think what you are doing is a beautiful way to celebrate and support your amazing mum. She is one of the sweetest, kindest people I have ever met and she is so proud of you and Ryan. Whenever she talks about you her face lights up. We are all thinking of Nancy, you and the rest of the family. Even though it must be so hard to remain strong, if anyone can do it, you can. With fondest love, Kate x
ReplyDeleteRemeber Keryn you and Ryan and all the rest of us will aways have your mum in our heart.
ReplyDeleteThis photo made me cry...so full of extrordinary love & pain all at the same time. Thank you for sharing. I admire your family for always finding the positives in life. This quote reminded me of you: "Everyday may not be good, but there's something good in everyday". And this one is great too: "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference - Winston Churchill". Love you all & thinking about you always, Pam xoxo
ReplyDeleteIt breaks our hearts (the Olins Family) to hear that such a wonderful person is in pain. I will never forget all the fun times we all had together growing up. I'm not a spiritual person but I believe everything happens for a reason, we just don't see it right away.
ReplyDeleteLots of love from the Olins (Ainsley, Britty, Chris, Dan, Mum and Dad) family