Everyone handles “bad news” differently.
As a Rockford Police and Fire Chaplain, I have witnessed people responding to bad news. Yet, when it happens to me, I am left speechless. Reactions to bad news vary from person to person depending on status, experience and other factors.
For some, a trauma may be a broken coffeemaker first thing in the morning. For others, they learn they have cancer. I take bad news lightly, not really believing that it will be as bad as people report -- because, after all, I’m different.
Recently I received some news that will bring turmoil and disorder to my life: cancer. It’s as real as the sun that rises and sets each day, and it’s here in my body, waiting. I have choices in front of me, none of which I really like. However, I will chart a course and follow the path until I reach the journey’s end -- much like walking to DC in 2014.
I handle bad news one step at a time, breathing in and out. I will remain faithful to soul values, a healthy dose of good humor, and the loving care of family and friends. This is the recipe for muddling through hard times.
I am apprehensive. I am a weary traveler in the land called cancer, though I know over time I will find my way. As my knowledge expands and the love of family and friends cloak me, I will rest in the assurance that things work towards good -- even bad news.
I’m Lou Ness, and that’s my perspective.
