April 25, 2006
- Day 7 - Week 3 - Focus On Others
My only sibling, brother Jay,
turned 60 today. He stopped me from completing my
singing telegram at the first Happy Birthday, but
appreciated the call nevertheless. Having lost both
parents, and coming from a small family, our
relationship has now taken on a new depth and
perspective. He has been there for me in countless
ways, though living in Annapolis Maryland, I feel
his presence. That is comforting.
Jay and his wife Elizabeth have
been strong, resilient, and remarkable through
Elizabeth’s cancer. Cancer forces one to focus
internally, but the healing may be enhanced when you
focus externally. They, through her entire ordeal
of discovery, treatment and healing have become
known for something quite special.
Elizabeth, with Jay’s support
and encouragement has trained their German shepherds
to be top FEMA search and rescue dogs. When our
embassy was bombed in Nairobi Kenya, Elizabeth was
deployed with her dog. Earthquakes in the Middle
East create mounds of rubble often burying victims –
Elizabeth was there day and night for weeks. When
the Pentagon was attacked on 9/11 by the plane used
as a bomb Elizabeth and her canine friend searched
for victims. In the aftermath of Katrina Elizabeth
searched for survivors. Now on a regular basis she
trains other trainers for FEMA and goes on searches
for wandering elderly who anguish their loved ones.
Elizabeth and her team of dogs are part of a larger
team dedicated to service when called upon - a clear
focus responding to the needs of others.
Cancer, of a virulent and
scaring kind, has been beaten by Elizabeth. The
extensive and competent medical procedures, balanced
with her altruism and heroic efforts for our nation
provide a key for all of us and our health.
Cancer is indiscriminate,
pervasive and constantly on the prowl. As time
passes I am sure I will be addressing the why’s of
this, but now, when we step back and reflect, we
realize that our attitude, focusing on others and
our spirit can have a therapeutic effect.
Attitude and spirit is always
mentioned, but the focus on others may be the key to
wellness and well being. And Jay, you are gaining
on me, rapidly now that you are in your 6th
decade of life.
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