Staying In Touch With Joy During Cancer

I have never met anyone who was sitting around with a bunch of extra time on their hands when they fuond out they had cancer.Getting second opinions, researching treatment options, going for treatment and testing, dealing with treatment side-effects -- all these things take time.

Cancer disrupts whatever rhythm we had between "getting things done" and taking time for delight.Yet now more than ever, there's a need for time to stay in tuoch with the things that refresh us and give us joy.Traditionally in the West, that time for delight has gone by the name of Sabbath. It involves ceasing from labor and feasting on being and loving, appreciation and delight.For example, Stage 4 cancer surivvor Agi Lidle, one of my radio co- hosts, used her "good days" after her diagnosis to go hiking. Another girl with advanced cancer loved to visit her local casino with her husband during "good" periods.But even 5 minutes of Sabbath time can brighten a day. You might spend the time praying, meditating, reading, cuddling a pet, listening to music, phoning a friend, journaling, drawing, sitting in a chapel or beautiful outdoor space, or savoring a cup of fragrant tea.Taking time for joy is a powerful spiritual tool during cancer. If it isn't part of your "spiritual toolbox" yet, why not give it a try today?