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Linda Hoenigsberg's avatar

Tarek...I may have told you about this before. I read Paul's book too. In some ways it reminded me of what happened to myself. I waited until I was 51 before starting college. I needed a Master's degree in order to pursue my chosen career. The summer after my four years of undergrad work, I was dx with a "terminal" brain tumor. I so strongly believed that becoming a psychotherapist was my one true purpose that I got a second opinion, had brain surgery two states away, and while lying in bed recovering I got my master's online. I couldn't even walk and my vision was so double that prism lenses didn't help. I graduated, pushed myself through internships and two years of working, and built a thriving practice. Three years later the tumor returned and I had to have the surgery all over again. I was devastated!! What happened to my one true purpose? I eventually went back to very part time work (from home) but it took three more years to process the meaning and purpose of it all. Finally, I realized that meaning and purpose didn't have to be static. These days finds me painting, reading, cooking, enjoying nature, and growing older. But I find my meaning and purpose in encouraging others and in loving my family. I may re-read Paul's book too. Thank you Tarek.

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Karina Ahrer's avatar

I'm always touched by those kinds of tragic stories because it makes me realize how fast life can go by and how much I still want to do.

I'm glad I took the chance to stop postponing my life 8 years ago, and now I'm here writing about my lessons learned so people wake up even earlier.

Now, I enjoy the present even though it's not the life I dream of yet.

Gratitude for what we have is all we have in this moment to be happy.

Thank you Tarek for sharing his story and reminding me of a big life lesson!

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