When Tragedy brings out the #StrengthOfHumankind

Today is a day when we see that tragedy unquestionably brings out the#StrengthOfHumankind. The symbolism, pictures, music and thoughts on Social Media from around the globe are collectively trying to decompress, make sense of, and  reach out to those who have suffered so needlessly after the tragic events that took place in Paris on Friday, November 13^th, 2015. We know that because one person lost a life or perhaps is maimed and scarred physically and emotionally for the rest of their days that it causes a caustic ripple and vortex of sadness and confusion. A family member injured or killed affects other members of the family; a sister, a husband, a wife, a child, a community…the world!

Tragedy and chaos does bring sadness, grief, and confusion but it also brings out a part of us that is the best of humankind; a hand reaching out, a phone call of support, flowers, a hug, time spent focusing on the individual in need, a meal, a song of comfort. I can’t help but draw parallels between the events in Paris to the chaos and confusion of a cancer diagnosis and the unbelievable community of support I felt and witnessed. I hear countless comments from survivors saying the words,

I couldn’t have done this without the support of my family and friends.

There is no greater positive influence on an individual, a family or even a nation than the spirit and #StrengthOfHumanKind . I have witnessed it firsthand in my own life and it has quite simply left me breathless at any given gesture and moment of kindness.

So today and each day I encourage each of you to put aside the seemingly urgent, daily task at hand and for a moment speak the words of, “I love you”. Reach out a physical hand of help. Make the phone call. Give someone a hug. Don’t speak but simply look them in the eye and say, “I understand. I’ll be here for you.”

#StrengthOfHumanKind  

Disclaimer

References made to my surgical group, surgeon and healthcare team are made because they are aligned with my values and met my criterion after I did research of their practices and success rates. Any other healthcare provider that displays the same skill, compassion education and outreach to patients will be given consideration and recognition on this website.  The information contained on this website is not a substitute for or should be construed as medical advice. Please consult a licensed physician for medical advice.