November 1, 2022
By Anne Dabbs,
NCAN TN Chapter Leader, NET Patient
Some people are naturally optimistic. Others of us have to work hard at seeing our glasses as half full. Those of us living with a chronic disease such as Neuroendocrine Cancer often find ourselves needing to cultivate a new type of optimistic attitude.
As a popular saying goes, you can give an optimistic person a long stem rose and they will see only the bloom while a pessimist will only see the thorns. I doubt we can totally change our natural tendencies, but we can and we must find a mind set to address our disease with a resilient attitude.
“We don’t see things as they are. We see things as WE are.”
So very true. On the days that we are struggling, try to remember that your emotions may be just tied up in today’s particular struggle or set back. We all need a “pity party” every so often. Don’t be the last one to leave your pity party. Just do it, learn from it, and then let it go.
“Imagination manifests reality.”
Make sure you keep your mind focused on the diagnostic and medical facts of your disease and current health. Don’t look for trouble needlessly. Good thoughts vs negative thoughts can not share space in your brain 50/50. Make room for the good thoughts, the positive thoughts, and let them prevail.
“You learn everything you need to know about a person by the way they talk to you.”
Especially now, seek out and surround yourself with those who hear you. You know deep in your heart who asks sincerely “how are you?” and who is asking just to make conversation. Allocate your time and energy wisely. Keep in mind, however, that your words are a reflection of yourself to others. Make sure your words portray yourself as you want to be seen and heard.
“Survival of the fittest is all about evolution.”
So many things in your life have changed since your Nets diagnosis. They will continue to change. Now more than ever, we must be willing to close a few doors, pass on some prior opportunities, and evolve into a lifestyle that we never before anticipated. Try to stay centered on what lies ahead and allow only brief glances into your rear view mirror.
“Gratitude makes everything easier.”
Yes, even living with Neuroendocrine Cancer, there are many, many things to be thankful for. Some days we must look a little harder. Some days gratitude is a struggle. Every day is filled with thorns and roses. When the thorns seem to be winning and multiplying, oh so fast, look harder and deeper for the roses. Make peace with those thorns and allow yourself to treasure those roses. However small, finding them and acknowledging them is a triumph for your day.
Share some of your roses below. And if you find yourself struggling with the thorns, give us a call. We are here for you.
Find out more about how YOU can help the NET Community.
Disclaimer: NCAN blog posts are the opinions of its writers and are not intended as a replacement for medical advice. Please consult your Health Care Providers for individual concerns.
Recent Comments