But what about the pain? That’s what scares us, ultimately. Even our ultimate fear of what’s on the other side of this life has more to do with the pain of getting there than the arrival. Pain and fear are wonderful motivators. That’s what mom has been facing as the effects of chemo and radiation at the same time are starting to kick in to high gear. We can do it as long as there is no pain involved, right?
My favorite scene in Rocky III is when the ringside interviewer asks Mr. T what his prediction is for his fight against Rocky Balboa. Mr. T answers "My prediction? Pain."
The ability to harness pain depends to a great extent on your personality. Introverts are interested in avoiding pain whereas extraverts are more concerned with possible rewards. An example is the introvert likely choosing the fat-free lunch option because he wants to avoid the pain of being overweight. Whereas the extravert will probably dive in to the chocolate cake because the reward now is far more exciting than the possible pain in the future! Everything we do is based on an economic mindset. I’m not talking finances but value. We always look to maximize our pleasure and minimize our pain.
When I was in the 6th grade my Sunday school class took a climb up a mountain. Technically it’s a butte but to me it was a mountain. Square Butte stands guard to the west as you cross Little Battle, Butte and Cowboy Steele Creeks to the east. six miles past the old town of Square Butte you cross Flat Creek right before you arrive in the town of Geraldine. And that’s where I was for the 6th grade.

My brother is an avid mountain climber and in 2005 he and some of his friends got to the summit of the Mt of the Holy Cross. And right before you get there, before the whole world opens up before you and you can see for miles and miles...this is what it looks like.

Lots of rocks to cut yourself on and trip over - lots of obstacles and, well, pain. But the view from the top...

This is a steep, hard, difficult climb for anyone going through cancer. Mom is battling it and my friend Leslee is just starting her battle. But we all need to remember, whether we are battling cancer or anything else in our lives –
the steeper the mountain,
the harder the climb,
but better the view
from the finishing line!
Hey Mom…and Leslee…SEE YOU AT THE TOP!
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