The great English writer of the last century, G.K. Chesterton, said, “When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude.” It’s a good quote, but it’s much easier to glibly say than to implement on anything like a regular basis.
Suppose you buy a new television screen — larger, sharper, in every way better than what you had before. The first time you turn it on, it might knock your socks off. A month later, however, that feeling will have faded. A year later, it will have become simply the accepted norm. You’ll be taking those crisp images for granted.
So how do you hold onto that attitude of gratitude for the blessings you have? In another quote from Chesterton, he says, “The way to love anything is to realize that it might be lost.” He wrote those words in an essay called The Advantages of Having One Leg, in which he reflects on having a sprained ankle and, consequently, having to get around on one leg.
“In one of my feet I can feel how strong and splendid a foot is; in the other I can realise [sic] how very much otherwise it might have been. The moral of the thing is wholly exhilarating. This world and all our powers in it are far more awful and beautiful than even we know until some accident reminds us. If you wish to perceive that limitless felicity, limit yourself if only for a moment. If you wish to realise [sic] how fearfully and wonderfully God’s image is made, stand on one leg.”
Ten years ago, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. I survived the six months of chemo and came to appreciate anew having energy, having health, and especially having relationships with people I could depend on.
Then and still today I realize “how very much otherwise it might have been.” Had I lived in another century or been without quality healthcare, I might not have made it. I wouldn’t have seen the sun today shining across my lawn draped with autumn leaves. I wouldn’t have lived to hold my grandkids. I wouldn’t have been around to write this blog.
The experience of cancer taught me that tomorrow is not guaranteed and that each day is full of wonder. I am thankful for all the days I have had between then and now. I’m almost grateful for the cancer that taught me those lessons. No, no I’m not.
