Dear Bruce,

Two nights ago, I went for my late evening walk and read your comment. It was so touching—it brought tears to my eyes. I had to then close it and take the time to internalize and reflect upon your counsel and received your kindness with my whole heart.

I had no idea you had experience with cancer…and your family. Thanks for the transparency in sharing how each of you truly handled it in your own personal way…but I admire that each of you knew who to lean on and I gathered: there was a hopeful/fighting spirit in each of you. I wonder if you both were influenced by your dad and how he handled…

I’m so happy you have each beat it—I can imagine what a huge gift that is. But to me it also speaks of the love you each carry for life—and how you acted upon your diagnosis.

Thanks for reminding me there is indeed truth for my friend’s reaction and mine.

That singular event would have easily been so dismissed and forgotten had it been isolated and I’ve learned since —weeks of reading and digesting these comments….its her. A flood of comments and behavioral responses she’s shared all came flowing to my memory as I opened this hurt—and I’ve come to some conclusions. If anything—I now see my friendships in a clearer light as well as how I must carefully consider how I approach —and how much time and mostly “heart” I invest in those around me.

I felt dismissed in such an awful way—my human defensive nature has kicked in. Yet I still want to be me.

What a generous kindness you shared with your compliment—thank you.

Truly.

You’ve all helped me heal and grow—and so onward I keep marching! 😊 hope you’re having a great week!

Keep well Bruce!💛🤗