Jojo Meyer, Resident
It was a defining moment in 1994 when, at the age of 24, I received my first cancer diagnosis. I was overcome with fear. My goal was to survive for my son. At the time, I was not educated in self-care or a holistic approach for healing. Nor had I evolved to a level of consciousness to know the importance. In 2009, when I received my second cancer diagnosis, I didn’t feel fear. I had more “tools” in my belt and knew the importance of selflessly taking care of me. I allowed myself the grace to put myself first so that I could focus on surviving. Composing a game plan for survival was my focus.
I began praying for guidance with intention. It seemed as though my prayers were answered almost instantaneously. I felt as though all my senses had been awakened. Colors seemed brighter. Sounds were clearer, and scents more profound. Touch felt more detailed, and food was more palatable. I had an overwhelming desire to begin placing joy in my daily life. My eyes, mind, and heart were open in ways I never knew possible. I began journaling my experiences, and 15 years later, I wrote and published Tickled Pink Inspirations to offer hope and inspire others.
As I focused daily on seeking joy, life began to look different, as if seeing and experiencing things for the first time. Clouds appeared softer, and stars shined brighter. I watched in awe as the Nebraska farm fields transformed from vibrant shades of green to glorious hues of amber and gold in the fall. Those same snow-covered fields sparkled like diamonds in the winter sun.
All free gifts within nature. I scattered powerful words throughout the house such as “persevere” and “strength” and bible verses including Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not.” I was mindful of who was in my life and replaced the doom-and-gloom news with childhood ‘70s sitcoms. These small changes made cancer less of an energy vampire.
During this time, as uncertainties developed, I discovered that if I asked myself what’s the life lesson I’m supposed to be learning, it helps to keep life in perspective. Doing this left little room for negativity and kept fear at bay. This simplistic yet profound question has offered knowledge and growth for the last 15 years. I’m repeatedly shown that the most valuable life lessons come from the biggest life obstacles. We all have the choice to allow the roads along our journey to make us or break us. Even when life seems uncertain, we can choose to live a joyful existence. We must be open to seeing and believing the joy that surrounds us.
Jojo Meyer is a freelance writer. Her books Tickled Pink Inspirations: How I used faith, family, friends, and laughter to persevere through cancer twice and Love Bombed: Realistic Insights to Love Bombing In The Form of Truth & Poetry are available on Amazon.