We tend to store personal stories in the recesses of our hearts—out of sight, but rarely forgotten. Some stories are easier to retell than others depending on the audience, the mood, and the setting. Though it’s never easy to find the right words, sharing these stories with others is sometimes better than sharing nothing at all. Our lives have changed dramatically in the last month, leaving us feeling empty and starved for a story that describes what we’re feeling personally.
The abrupt halt to our fast-paced, whirlwind routines have left us unable to tell up from down and day from night. As we sink deeper into this hibernation, with more time than ever to listen to ourselves, a message beckons from within. It’s a message that’s been screaming for our attention all along, asking for love, self-care, and nurturing. Over our lifetime, it’s been buried by vices and other toxic distractions. These are the rare moments in our lives when being attentive to our inner voice allows us to grow as a person and strengthen our roots.
Our personal voice is fragile, easily broken by negativity and doubt that swirls around us. It’s easier to buy into fruitless notions and fear than it is to fight back with uplifting mantras of self-worth and belief in our direction.
When I was diagnosed with cancer for the second time three years ago, my direction and routine were ripped away, leaving me adrift in an open ocean without a sail. Confronting fear is never easy, especially when the cause of it is seemingly invisible like a virus or a malignant tumor.
During my treatment, I struggled to process what I was fighting against. I fell victim to believing my body was turning against me. In those deep, dark moments of doubt, I eventually found a way to block the naysayer inside me and listen to my true calling. On medical leave from my job, and basically all of my life’s responsibilities, I had an abundance of time to reassert my voice. But, before I could lead myself out of darkness, I had to listen.
Now, as the whole world seems to be holding its breath and waiting in fear, I encourage you to find stillness throughout the day and be open to what’s screaming, or maybe whispering, for attention. Listen to whatever it is that’s asking for you to take control of.
With these thoughts in mind, I welcome you to listen to a podcast I wrote for The Dirtbag Diaries, a production of Duct Tape Then Beer. In this 15-minute short, I delve deep into my personal survival story and share the ways I was able to turn my life around in the darkest moments.
I hope my story provides you with inspiration to overcome the struggles you’re grappling with today. It’s never easy sharing a personal story, but now, more than ever, being personal with ourselves and others is what will lead us to brighter days in the future.
Until next time, peace and love,
From The Open Shutter Archive:
Grow Your Roots:
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