As we grow, we often let go of things – whether it’s a material object, a friendship, or something more. But do we know how to survive the loss?
For the first time in a while, I had no doubts that this was going to be an amazing year for me. I was finally consistent with exercising, meeting my friends more often and making new ones, and going on an exciting road trip to Houston, Texas.
Finally, the cherry on top was turning 21 years old. This milestone only made the year more special, as I would finally be considered an adult in every single corner in the world.
I was going to finish college early, get my first office job, go on a graduation trip to Vegas, and attend multiple concerts and festivals in town with friends. These are the typical kinds of plans you make whenever you reach a big milestone.
But one month later, my life turned 180 degrees. It all started when I went to get checked for a lump on my right breast.
At the beginning, the doctors were very optimistic that, depending on the biopsy, I could potentially live with the lump as my long-time companion. But even after an ultrasound, we realized it wasn’t possible.
As dramatic as it sounds, I had only two choices in front of me.
Option one: forget about surgery for now, and focus on my early graduation, the trip to Vegas, the concert season. For the moment, there wasn’t any pain – it was just the little lump – but one that can and almost certainly would double its size.
Option two: undergo surgery and be forced to put all plans on hold for a bit. Within a week, I’d have the results of what exactly was going on, but I would have to make peace with the changes in my body. If you are an independent person like me, this means learning how to ask for help during recovery.
Before I continue, imagine yourself in my situation. What you would have chosen to do, based on your dreams and plans ahead. Does that answer make you happy? Does it make you feel good about what’s about to come?