Welcome back! This week, I want to explore the “what ifs”…something that has been given a negative image in our society. We hear not to get stuck in the what ifs. Don’t overthink. Don’t live in the past. Don’t fear the future.
Act NOW and think later.
Throughout my cancer journey, I have been plagued with “what ifs” almost daily. I am deeply religious and have a strong personal belief that nothing happens without a reason. God was trying to teach me something, I just needed to be quiet and listen to figure out what it was.
If you know me, being quiet is NOT in my nature!
After a few months into my new cancer life, I finally realized … what if I flip the script and ask “what if” in a positive light?
From “Oh No” to “Thank God”
What if Dave and I didn’t move to Texas when we did? Then I would have been facing at least a 90-minute drive for oncology care where we lived previously, in both Arizona and Michigan. I now live less than three miles from my oncologist and two hospitals!
What if I hadn’t gotten my last job when I did?” Then I wouldn’t have most of the friends that I have now, friends who have sat with me through chemo treatments. Friends who send me texts and cards for no reason. Friends who go with me to concerts and community events that my husband has no desire to attend!
What if I had my mammogram on time in 2024 instead of five months late? Then I might have had a false sense of security if that mammogram was clear, which it could have been, according to my oncologist. I may have delayed going to the doctor because, after all, my mammogram was good five months ago. For once in my life, my procrastination may have been helpful after all!
What if I quit my job and didn’t have a purpose for getting up and out of the house every day? Then I wouldn’t have discovered that my job wasn’t my true purpose in life, and it never should have been. I would have been robbed of the opportunity to join support groups, read books that spoke to me, and spend quality time with family and friends. And I definitely wouldn’t be where I am now, writing a blog and preparing to be a speaker!
So What?
A lot of what ifs … and now my response leans more toward “so what”?
God had a plan for me long before I knew.
So what if Dave and I moved over 1,000 miles twice in less than 2 years—with the second move including two cats?! So what if I was five months late for my mammogram?
So what if I had to walk away from a career that I invested 22 years of my life into?
I know now that I am exactly where I needed to be, when I needed to be here, surrounded by the most amazing people and community when I needed them most.
My Challenge to You
This week, I want to ask you to evaluate the “what ifs” in your own life. Take a look at the decisions and choices you have made over the years. See how they have shaped and formed you into the person you are today. Take a moment to write down what is important to you, what fulfills you, and gives your life purpose and meaning.
Go ahead … I triple dog dare you!
Until next week, remember to Go Forth. Be Exceptional!
