I’m Not Dead Yet (I.N.D.Y.)

Inspiration Redux

Posted on September 22nd, 2008 by Merle

At church yesterday, Vini, a woman who has been visiting our church, came up to me to tell me how much of an inspiration I have been to her. Those of you who know me probably can predict that my initial response was to discount her comment. Seriously, I am honored that people find my fight against cancer inspirational, but that is not my intention. I deal with my situation the only way I know how: dealing with it one day at a time; naming the problem; and having an open discussion with folks about how I am dealing with my illness.

Vini told me that her father had passed from pancreas cancer. She further explained that I was inspirational for exactly the reasons I just described: because I am willing to share how I am doing and dealing with my cancer openly and honestly. I’m not sure I believe that makes me inspirational, but at least it gave me something about which to think.

As I am apt to do in times like this, I went online to look for quotes about inspiration, and I thought I would share some (as well as some “inspirational” pictures. Enjoy:

“None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.” -Henry David Thoreau
“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.”-Friedrich Nietzsche
“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means.” -Albert Einstein
“The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up.” -Mark Twain
“In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It goes on.” – Robert Frost
“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” -Mahatma Ghandi
“If you’re going through hell, keep going.” -Winston Churchill
“In between goals is a thing called life, that has to be lived and enjoyed.” -Sid Ceasar
“You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face.” -Eleanor Roosevelt