Every once in a while, the universe sets things in motion in order for two paths to cross. And in the case of Pattie and I, the Universe had to put some things on the back burner, push up its sleeves and focus. Because I imagine it's not easy to get two people who are equally guarded and highly suspicious of others to meet. I've never been the type of person with tons of girlfriends who have girls-night-out and wine meetings. It may come across as snobby but that couldn't be farther from the truth. I'm socially selective. I have a hard time convincing people that I struggle with social anxiety.
Even though technology has become a basic way of life, I'm still amazed by the fact that I'm able to connect with people from all over the world. Which brings me back to Pattie. We met through this blog. And even though we've never shared the same physical space, I feel like we're from the same tribe. And a small tribe it is. We haven't sat down to compare whose childhood was more traumatic but it's understood that we've lived parallel lives. It's rare to find someone who "gets" my somewhat sinister sense of humor. But Pattie does. Her sense of humor is far more advanced than mine so I'm sure there are times when she mutters "Cave man" after reading some of my stuff. We can look at pictures like this and totally know what's going on:
So you can imagine how devastated I was when Pattie announced that she'd been diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after Christmas. I felt like someone had punched me in the gut. Then I got pissed. I wanted to make everything better. But seriously....what can you do other than offer unconditional love and support? So that's what I'm doing. Her strength and candor never cease to amaze me. I'm not sure I could be as strong as her if the roles were reversed. I'd like to think so.
In true 'n brave Pattie fashion, she's created a blog My Boobs Are Trying To Kill Me. She keeps it raw and real so don't expect flowers and candy. But I'm a big believer in the healing power of support. Even from complete strangers. So go on over there to Boobville and witness the bravery of a woman I'm proud to call friend and jackass. And if you don't mind, send out some positive vibes in her general direction. She might give you the stink eye but deep down she'll appreciate it.
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