Time and the Unexpected

I went to the Cross Cancer Institute today for what I thought would be a few tests and much waiting around.   Unexpectly, the technicians took me early, and I was home 60 minutes sooner than I had planned....and yes....the Cross Cancer Institute is a hospital.   Today was a day when the system worked with great efficiency.  

Being at home now, away from the schedules of work, I am slowly learning to value time differently.   How am I spending my time?  How do I wish to spend my time?  Following is an interesting perspective on schedules, survival, healing and time:
http://www.dreamhealer.com/news/thoughts-my-arctic-trip

Hopeful Harp

Yesterday I had my chemotherapy.  While in the chemo room, I heard the most beautiful soothing harp music.  It was my friend Bev Ross...one of the few certified harp therapists in Canada.  How serendipitous.  I had a wonderful visit with Bev and she played for me.  It helped me relax at a time when I was having difficulty relaxing.  Music can be very hopeful.  I have been trying to add some music to this post unsuccessfully and may have added a picture instead.  Suggestions welcome.

Who Says Learning Statistics Is Not Hopeful?

I have heard from several people that learning statistics is very challenging.  I don't know a lot about the statistics you learn to complete graduate work but I will tell you what I do know. 
- 2 months ago I was taking 60% of my prescribed pain medicine.
- 1 month ago I was taking 50% of my prescribed pain medicine.
- 1 am currently taking 40% of my prescribed pain medicine, which is 20% less than what I was taking 18 months ago when I first got out of the hospital.

These are the statistics I am learning.  They feed my hope and they keep me grounded as I go back to the Cross Cancer Institute for more tests this afternoon.

Beginning a Blog

I started this Blog to write down some ideas about living with hope.  Hope has been a welcome companion when I have been at the end of my rope.  It has helped me hang on when the rope was wearing thin.  How do I strengthen the rope and, in doing so, strengthen my hope?  One way is to focus on those things for which I am grateful.   I am grateful for warm clothes as the weather gets colder, warm food to eat, a warm bed in which to sleep, and a warm smile from a friend.  All of these things at one time or another have helped me strengthen my hope.