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.
Great piece Tarek. His story sounds so inspiring and a small wake up call we can all use to see the meaning in life RIGHT NOW. I’ve been prone to not always see the deep meaning in my own life because I’ve always wanted to have a family of my own but haven’t found the guy I wanted to marry (thought I did but…) I’m so grateful for faith that gives me meaning, and my writing and coaching work to help others live meaningfully and more freely
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.
Your story is SO inspiring Linda. You have never given up and neither should we.
Never give up!
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!
Thank you for reading and commenting Karina. You are making a difference!
Great piece Tarek. His story sounds so inspiring and a small wake up call we can all use to see the meaning in life RIGHT NOW. I’ve been prone to not always see the deep meaning in my own life because I’ve always wanted to have a family of my own but haven’t found the guy I wanted to marry (thought I did but…) I’m so grateful for faith that gives me meaning, and my writing and coaching work to help others live meaningfully and more freely
Inspiring Emily! My faith sustains me as well. You are a gifted writer who has much to share with the world!