Last night we went to family reading night at the kids' school. It was a fun event full of hands on activities and magical stories. I think books take you to another place-I guess that's why I'm a library junky. But, amidst the enchantement and fun last night was a subtle reminder of why Cancer bites.
One of the hands on activities of the night was frying up Green Eggs and Ham...in ode to Dr. Suess. Such fun...until Grace burned her hand on the griddle. The thing is, Grace didn't make so much as a fuss about it. After the kids filed out from the activity, Grace mentioned very quietly that she burned her finger, but said "I'm alright, it doesn't hurt much."
When we were getting in the car to return home, I noticed her face changed and she burst into tears. She said, " I just feel so awful, and my finger just burns, but I didn't want to tell you because I didn't want to have to leave the fun...I ALWAYS have to miss everything because I'm sick!"
It was like a punch in my gut. I realize that she misses a lot of school, a lot of birthday parties and a LOT of events. But, the remarkable thing is that Grace handles it quite demurely and sweetly, so it's hard to understand the gravity of it weighing on her. I guess it's a good reminder to us that her struggle is so potent, and so challenging, yet in the face of it all she is controlled and purely good.
Lance Armstrong shared in a battled with Cancer. He said, "I take nothing for granted. I now have only good days, or great days." Grace seems to get that life...moments...are precious. I wish Cancer didn't have to teach her that, but I'm sure humbled by what she's taught me in the face of adversity.
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3 comments:
I am typing this with one hand to say that your daughter impresses me on a daily basis and makes me want to re-think my priorites! She is incredible and strong and beautiful....tears are rolling down my face....
I couldn't agree more with the comment before me! She is amazing, and makes me think of my priorities. We are so blessed, and she is so strong! I hope there are many fun days ahead without burns! She deserves it all!
Bless her little heart. She is so wise way beyond her years, and although it's great she is learning from this, I can't wait until she can put the sickness behind her, and never miss another thing!
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