Like any serious illness, cancer brings up the topic of mortality – a topic we don’t typically like to talk about. But, death is natural even if it’s devastating, and there’s something incredibly powerful that happens when we allow its reality to become a tool for living life to the full.

Crisis is never wanted, but it can be an opportunity to clarify what truly matters and grow a deeper appreciation for the life we already have. 

Here are a few ways to use the reality of our mortality for good.

Shifting Priorities

Death puts things into perspective so we can more easily move away from superficial concerns and focus on what really matters to us. We can find joy in everyday moments, strengthen meaningful relationships while letting go of toxic connections, and stop putting off our dreams and goals. To realize we don’t know how long we have is actually a gift.

Deepened Relationships

During difficult times, we can discover who our true friends are and build even stronger bonds with our loved ones. This can help us see different sides of friends and family, building newfound appreciation. Specific hardships lead to new connections, like finding unexpected friendships within the breast cancer community. Desperate times also teach us to accept the help and support from others, which can completely change our emotional wellbeing and outlook for the better.

Personal Growth

When challenges come, we have to try and swim even if we feel like we’re drowning. This is so hard but reveals our resiliency and strength and helps us discover a newfound confidence in ourselves and courage for others. In this confidence, we develop self-advocacy skills, giving voice to more of who we are and can be. And, while this is extremely uncomfortable, every challenge and crisis shows us we are not in control. Accepting uncertainty can help us love and be loved in deeper ways.

Redefining Life

While facing our mortality can help clarify what we want presently, it can also help create or develop a new sense of purpose to help others and leave a particular legacy. We can see that life is less about achieving and more about loving others and ourselves. As we see time differently, we can create new traditions and celebrate life more deeply while also embracing second chances with loved ones, ourselves, and life with and after cancer. 
If you know of someone facing their mortality because of a breast cancer diagnosis, consider giving them a For the Girls pink wind chime–the soothing melodies will remind them of your love and inspire them to enjoy the peace and beauty of the present moment.