A Source of Comfort and Light

It's difficult to grasp that it has been a year since I've been told I would need a mastectomy. This year has seemed so surreal ... as if none of this has ever happened, but as I look at my body, I am returned to the reality that my life has drastically changed.

This process has helped transform me into a "unique butterfly" ... one that can share beauty, hope, light and compassion to those around her, especially the sick and elderly.

I spent the eve of that anniversary in deep meditation / prayer. I wanted to do something unique ... something I had never done before to celebrate this achievement. Yesterday morning I continued with the prayers during my hour ferry ride to San Francisco. The still waters were exceptionally soothing. The entire morning was full of celebrations: a visit to my alternative doctor, buying some sexy Victoria's Secret items (for me, of course), purchasing a decadent, gluten-free cake. Yet, there still was something missing ... something my soul yearned for.

During my ferry ride home I received a phone call.  A close friend was frantic because her step-dad, who is in hospice due to stage-4 cancer, called because his caregiver did not show up to the house that morning. I told her I would gladly keep him company.

For the remainder of the boat ride, I prayed for guidance ... to help Don Pepe experience some relief from him pain and to be a source of light.  I few times I even asked myself, "Why did you accept this job?"  And when I entered Don Pepe's room, I understood immediately my purpose for that day.

This kind man greeted me with a glowing smile, "Hola mija! How nice of you to spend some time with me." I looked around his room that had stacks of books, and on his bed was a book on meditation and healing energy. "Ah ha!" I thought to myself, "We have something in common."

It turned out that Don Pepe and I have several things in common (other than the cancer experience). We both love romantic music, Disney classics, volunteer work, great food, learning about other cultures and world theology/philosophy. After I administered Don Pepe his afternoon meds, I expected him to quietly fall asleep. I was in for a HUGE surprize! We talked for almost three hours non-stop. As a retired school teacher in Mexico and the USA, this dear man shared with me some wonderful stories about his students. I was touched when he remarked, "You know, mija, you remind me so much of one of my favorite sudents, Cecilia. I loved her cheerful attitude ... like yours."

The afternoon ended with listening to amazing romantic music by the great tenors of the world. That was the only time during my six hour visit that Don Pepe remained quiet.

I thought about something special I could do for him. Then I asked, "Do you like soda de pollo con fideos? (a Mexican chicken noodle soup)" He suddenly sat up, clapped his hands and smiled, "Can you please come tomorrow?"

I was there to help Don Pepe, but he helped me expand my knowledge of the beauty of Life.