Reflections

As I frantically try to organize some fun to ring in the new year, I am reminded of what I did or did not do last year at this time and why.  I remember the fog of fatigue and nausea that rolled me into 2011.  I remember the brain scan in January, the metastasis scare in February, the mastectomy in March, the biopsy in April, the last day of radiation in May, and finally the summer of recovery that led to the most glorious fall.    

My reflections reminded me of my favorite houseplant.  In college I started the plant from a cutting from home, and it moved with me from the dorms to apartments, from upstairs to downstairs, from North Carolina to Wisconsin.  But when the plant and I finally moved back to Iowa in April 2009, I mistakenly thought it would be okay on the porch overnight.  It froze.  It died.

Just when I was about to throw it out, I saw something amazing.    

It was growing again!  From the center of death and decay sprang a tiny, vibrant leaf.  Over the past two and a half years, this single leaf has given rise to my old favorite plant. 

I feel like the beginning of 2011 was the center of my death and decay.  But look what has sprung forth this year in my life:  from activism (three state proclamations in support of IBC awareness) to career accomplishments (five accepted publications) to family joys (two potty-trained darlings)!  I have overcome the trauma almost as effectively as my houseplant.

Here's to the end of a trying yet remarkable year.  Happy 2012 to all of you!