Mark Everett Kelly was diagnosed with Stage IV Rhabdomyosarcoma on December 12, 1990. He was given six months to live.
Wednesday, November 6, 2019, represents my 38th blog entry. I am going to use the next few weeks to express my views on areas I need to be critical of myself. I do this because I want to be better. I want to be a better son, a better friend, a better brother, and a much better fiance.
One of the most utilized ways of expressing one's hopes, desires, and encouragement is a meme. Whether you are on Facebook, LinkedIn Tumblr, Reddit, or Instagram, one can't go long without seeing an inspirational quote.
I should be careful about how I move forward from here because I understand memes are very personal, and a lot of thought can go into a posting. I must admit that I occasionally post them myself; however, 99.8 percent of my memes are scripture verses out of the bible. I'm not sure that makes a difference to many, but it does to me!
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WHY DON'T I LIKE MEMES
It's not that I dislike the sentiment, but only if you apply it. For someone who battled cancer and now fights exhausting episodes against Crohn's disease and Lymphedema, words of advice mean very little.
I have found that those who throw out memes like napkins at a pizza party do precisely the opposite. Words without actions mean nothing. NOTHING.
I've grown to resent talkers. I've been able to recognize someone full of crap. I was a slow learner and got burned a lot because I am naive in many ways. I wanted to believe people usually have good intentions and meant well. Meaning well doesn't cut it anymore with me.
MORE AWARE OF TROUBLE
Cancer taught me that I need to be self-reliant. No one is coming to save you. No one is coming to rescue you from food stamps or public housing. The world does not care about your disease, it doesn't care about your shortcomings, and it certainly doesn't care if you can't help yourself.
I know there are angels out there who care. I know that there are people who can't sleep knowing a friend or family member is suffering. However, those people are few and far between.
MEAN WHAT YOU SAY
I cannot speak for others; I can only speak for myself. Experience has given me a real heart for those suffering. I don't care if someone thinks giving money to people on the road is dumb, or you are a sucker. I don’t have any issue with those who choose not to. God doesn’t speak to all of us in the same way. However, with me I always think of Matthew 25: 36-40.
"I was naked, and you clothed me, I was sick, and you visited me, I was in prison, and you came to me.' 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' 40 And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'"
I apologize if I come off as a "Dougie downer." I care about results. Too often, we ignore the suffering of those close to us that need help. It sucks to be a burden. It is humiliating to be so ashamed of one's financial situation that you choose to stay home because you don't want to make others feel guilty. Those people don't need memes; they need help. Giving those people a scripture verse doesn't make you a better Christian. It makes you a phony.
I'm speaking to myself before anyone else. I'm guilty of being a total phony at times. I learned my lesson the hard way. People living with cancer and the side effects of treatments, don't need pandering. They don't need your pity. In most cases, they need your help but are often too ashamed to ask.
I'm sorry if this blog was overtly negative and judgemental. However, I'm the first one who needs to heed my advice. Those close to me need more out of me. I need to get my head out of my ass and stop feeling sorry for myself. I implore everyone to take an in-depth look at themselves and take a minute to appreciate your loved ones, family, and friends. Never be afraid to give. Even if you never get anything in return, it still says volumes about the person you are.
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BACK ON SPORTS RADIO
I now do a sports radio show every Tuesday and Friday from 8-11 AM EST. You can find all our shows, live and via podcast, here.
WHERE TO FIND ME
I can always be reached by email (CKMagicSports@gmail or LivingAsACancerSurvivor@gmail). Please see the links below to follow me or contact me on social sites. I welcome (need) more followers and supporters. Please don't be shy about sharing your thoughts.
NEED SUPPORT?
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