Tough and strong - nope, just giving 100 percent

Survivors of any disease or tragedy are considered 'tough' or 'strong' by others. This is a message that should shift. These are traits within each of us and when we give focus, attention to keep going. Our response to adversity shows ourselves and others our true effort of 100%. 

When my doctor confirmed I had cancer, I knew that I was in control to make decisions I thought and felt were right for me. Every case is different, because every person is different. My journey, to date, has been very conservative. My analytic side said make sure the data makes sense before going forward with any treatment. My heart said, keep still and not to go forward with any decision if it does not feel right.

This morning when I read the article about Angelina Jolie, I understand her reasons for taking steps to reduce risk and remove her ovaries. When I made the same decision, it was not all over the Internet, but many of the feelings she so freely expressed were shared by me and many of the other women. It is a tough decision and I had to make it if I wanted to see out my lifetime of events.

When you tell me I'm 'tough' or 'strong', just know this is when you are seeing me give my 100% down to the last drop. I do it because I am driven, loved and supported by people like you. While most say they could never be as strong as me, I shake my head and know that if you want something bad enough, you can achieve your goal.

Item # 855: Give 100% focus, attention, time or heart to someone or something you want and you will reap rewards you never knew were possible.

I love your guts!