the season of miracles
During the holiday season it seems that everyone takes a step back to reflect on the year that is drawing to a close. This year I will not only think about the sadness of the year, but also about the many blessings and miracles that surround me.
Katie was diagnosed with malignant glioblastoma in January 2013. As a high school senior, she looked forward to prom, senior trip, graduation, and college. Her life and ours was about to change forever. Katie endured biweekly surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. At the time, she was still going to Disney with her senior class (school nurse and mom in tow). She went to prom as radiant and beautiful as ever and walked in prom. Katie wanted to live as normal a life as possible, hence why she said “she loves the life you live”; Katie’s journey ended this summer after an 18-month battle.
Why does it take the tragedy of a young woman’s life to end in such a horrible way to awaken everyone around her to an appreciation of life?
My friend drove home after Katie’s funeral and told me that she was mad at all of our neighbors for not knowing the pain our family was in. Her comment really got me thinking. I am as guilty as anyone. Do we really know what is going on in another person’s life or what is their pain?
These past few months, after losing Katie, I have really tried to open my eyes to the people and world around me. There are little miracles happening everywhere if we can stop to notice. Notice the smile on the face of the old lady in the checkout line when you say “Good morning.” Keep an eye out for the good samaritan helping the old man to cross the street. How about watching a baby take his first steps? The “Make a Wish” foundation feels Katie and hundreds of children on amazing family trips during their struggles. Little miracles that put smiles on people’s faces.
In my professional life, I help potential franchise owners select and research the best franchise for their life goals. I hope that my life experience this past year has made me a better coach for my clients. I listen to them and try to really feel what they are going through. Only then can I hope to advise them on which franchise might allow them to balance their life and relationship goals with their career goals. Life is too short to spend it in an office building away from your family working for someone else who really cares about you or not.
I will miss Katie terribly this holiday season, but her words “Love the life you live” will resonate with me in everything I do and everyone I am blessed to spend time with. I wish the same for you!
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