This week has been a better week overall. I still had quite a swing in my energy levels. Some days I got up and I felt really good, almost “normal” and other days I got up I needed to go back to bed! It’s a good thing that I don’t have a lot of plans these days or more precisely I have very flexible plans. I go with the flow, eat when I am hungry and sleep when I am tired. If it wasn’t for the stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis, it’s a really good life. lol!
Eating and sleeping is usually not how I deal with life’s problems, but in this case, I am happy to be flexible. 🙂 I have had an extremely busy and stressful year, taking some much needed rest is just what I needed for my body and soul.
I have always loved languages and cultures. There is so much wisdom in words. In Chinese, the character for busy looks like this. There are two particles. On the left is the symbol for heart. On the right is the symbol for death. Busy literally means death of the heart. Before my cancer diagnosis, my calendar was filled to the max day and night everyday of the week. I didn’t seem to find a way to clear my schedule to have some time to myself. How quickly things could change! It’s all in perspective!Â
Helena,
First of all I’m glad you had a better week. You just made me feel happy. ..now I guess I’ll go rake them leaves. Though they do look nice scattered around.
Secondly, I am not one bit surprised that busy means “death of the heart.” Sometimes we get so busy (wow, It’s going to bother me anytime I use that word now – might be a good thing🤔). Anyway, we spend so much time doing things that we’re supposed to do (jobs and other responsibilities) that we don’t set enough time aside for ourselves and our loved ones. We are actually working against what our hearts desire. Of course you always have those people that say they “really love” their jobs. I’m not buying it! Well maybe that’s not the same love. Ok.
I don’t even want to compare my week to yours, but I had what the average person would call a very stressful week at work and I let it pour over into my personal life. NO, I didn’t do anything crazy but I treated people differently and had a bad attitude…basically my heart was dying. I’m going to try to control that more from now on. Thank you for your insight. You have taught me more than just tai chi over the two plus short years I have known you.
Leaves!!!
I just want to thank you for the invitation to your dinner party. Alex and Pat are wonderful friends. I find quality people who are kind, genuine and loving are the best people to surround yourself with. I hope the energy spent during the dinner was a positive catalyst to let you realize how much you are loved.
You have given so much to others, now is the time to give yourself the same love and attention. Your words … eat when you are hungry. Rest when you are tired, are wise remedies for your soul.
The world will turn without you dearest Helena, and it waits with open arms to see you recover from your cancer so we can all see that beautiful smile again.
I am sure you are very proud of David. This is a heavy load to carry, but you have given him your all. I am sure he is proud to respond with kindness to your needs.
Best wishes, and happy dreams,
Your student, Elaine
I’m with Denise at the tree farm being very “busy.” We both loved your analysis of the Chinese symbol for busy. Now we are curious about the symbol for “stress.” We have cleared out the living room so we have room for two people to play tai chi. That helps to keep the stress at bay. But most of all we are glad that you are feeling better and that your pain is under control. And we remain hopeful that you continue to feel stronger and better everyday.
Thank you, Sam! Yes, getting better everyday. I will do one on stress later… once I am not stressed out, just kidding! 🙂
Dear Helena,
Onward and upward is a positive outlook for all. I am glad to hear that you are following the “tao” of life in taking things as they come. This kind of resilience will serve you well in navigating the arduous journey ahead.
I wish you, David and all your family have a happy Thanksgiving season.
Thank you so much, Phyllis! Happy Thanksgiving to you too!!
So glad to hear you are feeling more comfortable. And thank you for helping others with your generosity in sharing your experiences and thoughts. I’ve been thinking a lot about your explanation of the Chinese character for busy.
Love and best wishes