One thing at a time

One thing at a time

I will never forget my reaction to the words “You have cancer.” There’s nothing in the world that can prepare you for that awful statement. I remember having my pity party for about two hours with many tears and fears that my life might end at 47 instead of 97. At the end of the party, my heart spoke clearly, assuring me that all was as it should be and directing me to take a one thing at a time approach. And that’s just what I did.

By making the effort to focus on one thing at a time, we learn to allow the journey to unfold as it should. There’s no need to force or resist whatever might be happening in your life at this moment. It’s better to break it down into small pieces you can handle rather than letting the overall situation overwhelm you. If you think about this, you’ll recognize the many opportunities you have in your life to practice the one thing at a time approach. The opportunities range from planning a big event or getting an education to the most simple everyday tasks. If I had allowed the cancer to dominate the big picture, instead of breaking it down into smaller manageable pieces, I’m not sure I would have learned firsthand that the longest journey starts with but a single step. Thank goodness my heart taught me the value of breaking it down to one day, one thing at a time.

“If someone asked you, “Can you swim a mile?” you’d say, “Nah.” But if you found yourself dumped out at sea, you’d swim the mile. You’d make it.” –Gert Boyle (1923- )

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