Who doesn’t need more distraction and fun right now? Games and sports can provide relief from news as we root for underdogs, enjoy odd match ups and find surprises. March madness is ending but brought great life and renewed spirit. Teams never meeting before, even Duke, UNC brought excitement. But there are some encounters in our week that may cause upset or surprise We can still handle those with grace and good sportsmanship. Always. For one instance, you don’t just slap people. What if patients came into the cancer center reached out and smacked me for giving them bad news? Could you imagine? Instead I am always impressed with how calm, composed and strong they are with information that can go from celebration to disaster.
What we know is that winning isn’t everything. The highest award doesn’t matter without decorum and generosity of spirit. How adorable was the St Pete’s basketball team even when they lost in the elite 8? They had true happiness for what they had accomplished, not anger for their opponents. They remind us that life offers a wide variety of encounters, and those that challenge us tend to be the most impactful.
For patients especially, it is very important to move from disappointment to determination and acceptance quickly and we do this every single day here. I am so fortunate because I find that everyone of my interactions with patients is magical. They may receive the toughest diagnosis or have been through years of therapy and pain, yet they inspire me. When we stand after delivering the news and making a plan, they reach out and hug me. Some in tears, some joy filled, some laughing through the anxiety, some terrified. But they all express gratitude for the encounter. While this is amazingly uplifting and I am moved, my own heart is relieved. Because I know with that attitude, they are accepting the responsibility for their own wellness and recovery. Happy to have a partner on their side. It’s as simple as that. They don’t have to go it alone, or be frustrated, angry or act out. There are people to help you as well. If you give it some notice, there may be random encounters with other patients, physicians and staff that can improve your day. Cherish every opportunity to extend yourself to them and they will return the favor.
Not every interaction will be positive, but you have the power to take the high road, demonstrate your strength and rise above. In turn you will become resilient. Even in adversity, be that person whose encounters inspire.