Open Dialogue

For Pat

Hard to believe it is December already. November just flew by and no posts. I made my annual trip to Atlanta and didn't write about it. But, I didn't log in to write about my trip (I'll have to do that another time).

Recently a friend passed out of this Earthly journey and into the next. She had cancer and reminded me so much of my dear friend Janet who passed on 15 years ago. They both faced the disease without letting it get the best of them.

Janet was one of the closest friends I have had in this life. I miss her and at times it is still hard to believe she is gone. She had a lot of faith and helped me find mine.

Pat was someone who touched my life. During this past year, I watched her get diagnosed with cancer and go through the treatment options. She had rectal cancer and made jokes about the surgery and what had been removed. She was a women with strong faith and I felt privileged to see her humanity. Particularly, during the times when the chemotherapy and pain got to her and she was angry about the disease that was taking her life.

She didn't stay in the anger long. She vented, felt bad, picked herself up, and plodded along. It was important to her to leave this Earth peacefully and show her children that she will be with them always in spirit.

I know she will be with me always in spirit. And, I feel so lucky.

posted by Susan @ 7:13 PM