November 24. I went to the cancer support group on Monday. I wasn’t in the mood to be there. I’d just been told the day before that a dear friend had passed away. I was heartbroken and grieving, and it had nothing to do with my cancer and everything to do with hers. She was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer a little over a year ago.
But I’m glad I went because there was a takeaway…thankfulness. Everyone who was there had a chance to say what they were thankful for during this Thanksgiving holiday season.
Her passing away made my cancer seem smaller and less significant. For a few hours she occupied my every thought. Every tear held treasured memories of our shared times. I still have moments of grief, but I will always be thankful.
When I count my blessings, I count you twice. —Irish proverb

I’m glad you went to your support group. Shirley would have wanted you to go…:)
Shirley was an incredible person. How lucky were we to have known her and called her friend! Love you Lana! xoxo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sweet Lana, your reflections of Shirley are beautifully expressed. I feel for the loss of your friend. I imagine she knew how special she was to you.
Thank you for sharing at this particular time.
I know you have an appointment coming up soon. I am very thankful to have you as a friend, so full of love and compassion.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lana, that’s a lovely turnaround, thank you for sharing! It’s tough to get to remembering the great things about a person (or pet) who’s passed, when you’re awash in grief for what you’ve lost.
Love you,
Carole
LikeLike
I’m so sorry, Lana for you losing such a good friend. David is right, you do have a knack for expressing yourself, actually when describing Shirley, It would be the words I would use to describe you. Love you dearly
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think you may have missed your calling Lana. You are a really good writer. Being able to capture one’s feeling in prose is a gift, and you have it. It’s never too late. Get started on that novel.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lana, I’m sorry for the loss of your friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, Shirley memories: your brief comments arepowerfully and emotionally packed with humble love. Beautiful.
LikeLiked by 1 person