Friday, March 12, 2010

Power of words

As a writer, words are pretty important to me. I believe in the magic of them, the beauty of them, and the power of them. Words have destroyed people and countries, and they've uplifted them too.
So when I was diagnosed with cancer, I decided to select my words carefully. It actually took me about a week before I could actually say the word cancer - for the first while it was the lump. And then I started thinking about the words that would describe what I'd be facing for the next year or so.
First up, cancer wasn't going to be a battle or a fight. It is a challenge and an experience. I didn't want to have any negative words associated with it. And as time has gone on, there have been many beautiful words that have become part of my cancer experience: hope, truth, faith, support, courage, honesty, strength and love.
It's incredible just how different you feel when you use positive words instead of negative ones. And it is just as easy to use brighter ones than darker ones. But it's also important to know that there's infinite meaning and depth to all words, and this can change depending on how they are used. I'll sign off this post with something I'd like you to consider. It's something Jeff, my father-in-law (melanoma survivor) said to me when I was diagnosed; ''Cancer is a word, not a sentence.''

5 comments:

  1. Go Pony Go!!! Remember the story of The Tortoise and the Hare. My thoughts are with you. Love Grandma Woolard

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  2. Your beautifully written insightful and thoughtful blogs are for EVERYONE. You write about life, reminding us of so many things that we tend overlook in our busy lives. Thank you! Sue

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  3. Hi Sunshine, I was catching up on your blogs today.That inner strength keeps on shining through as you tackle this head on. I thought you might enjoy a verse from old Dr. Seuss.
    I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind,
    Some come from ahead, some come from behind.
    But I've bought a big bat. I'm all ready you see.
    Now my troubles are going to have trouble with me.

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  4. You are so right…words are very important --- they express our thoughts, divide us, make us laugh and some words………are very hard to say and find. You are such an inspirational writer Simone please keep sharing your words and thoughts. Love u lots

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  5. True words of wisdom that can inspire everyone in any situation of life. You're brilliant!

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