A few people we know recently were diagnosed with cancer. The news hit us hard. It’s difficult to hear the news as friends or family. I can’t imagine how it would feel to be the one receiving the news for myself. Shock, disbelief, denial, fear.
I’m sure I’d have a difficult time coping after the initial shock wore off. I imagine sleepless nights and second guessing life choices. Knowing me, I’d probably want to deal with the diagnosis on my own. It would be difficult for me to lean on others. But I know that’s exactly what not to do and surely not the healthiest way to face it. I’d have to let people in. I hope I become open to this if that time ever arrives.
Rave and Roll’s blog provides the playlist from David Marsden’s livestream. I enjoy reading the set whenever she posts it on her blog. Sometimes I look up new music or it triggers me to listen to songs/bands from my past. One of her recent posts sent me down a Housemartin’s rabbit hole. I listened to their entire first album. Because it was still fresh, I’ll Be Your Shelter came to mind. I particularly like the lyrics. It made me think that I should accept the same help I’m willing to give.
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For a complete playlist, please click here.
For the Spotify playlist, please click here.
In times when you're troubled
Seems more than you can afford
And you feel, you feel you need a friend
Someone to share the load
And when your skies grow cloudy
I want you to know got a friend that's true
Just like a shelter, in a time of storm
I'll see you through, that's what I'll do
When your dreams are scattered
Just like the wind blown sand
And you feel, you feel you need a friend
I'll be there, reach out your hand
And when the tempest is raging
I want you to know got a friend that's true
Just like a shelter, in a time of storm
I'll see you through, that's what I'll do
I'll see you through your bad times
I'll see you through your fears
I'll see you through your hang ups
Honey I'll dry all your tears
And when the tempest is raging
I want you to know got a friend that's true
Just like a shelter, in a time of storm
I'll see you through, that's what I'll do
I will see you through, I will see you through
I will see you through, I will see you through
When my load got heavy, did you see me through
When my load got to hard to bear, did you see me through
What would you do, what would you do
What would you do, what would you do
If you're living on the dole and there's no sugar in your bowl
All you need to do is give a little knock
Don't despair he'll be there with his loving and his care
Marx will work for us right around the clock
He's alright, he's alright
He's alright, he's alright
MyGenXerLife 
Thank you for the ping-back and super kind words–I’m glad the post led to a meaningful musical journey for you.
Just to add–I was one of those people diagnosed with cancer back in November 2023. It’s amazing how your brain protects itself by shutting down initially upon hearing the words…but then it rallies to find ways and means of coping. It was very difficult for me to accept offers of help from others, but then it became necessary as treatments and the “ick” from those treatments progressed. I learned that people can be wonderful and that the ones who step up to offer help are truly altruistic, wanting nothing in return–much like we are when we are the ones offering the help.
My advice to anyone unfortunate enough to have a similar diagnosis–accept gifts of help. You can always pay it forward when you feel up to it. What a great world it would be if we perpetuated this circle of genuine love and compassion.
And me? I’m 2 years cancer-free, and back to volunteering to help food-deprived families.
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Thank you so much for sharing your personal story. I’m so glad you are two years cancer free. Yes, learning to accept people’s kindness can be difficult, but so necessary. Although I tend to try to handle everything on my own, sometimes it’s too much for one person to cope with. People need people, especially during difficult times. Your message of paying it forward hit home. I appreciate your words. Thank you.
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💖
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A great post and thoughtful share on a difficult topic. I also feel for the folks who have no one to rely on when the bad news comes. Nice song choice.
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Thanks, Steve
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That is news no one wants to hear. The song brings to mind a song by Need To Breathe – Brother.
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That’s a new song for me. I really liked it. I see the parallels between them. Thanks for introducing new music to me.
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I came across them a few years ago. They do have good songs. Yaay, glad I could introduce you to them 😁. Your music knowledge is unmatched.
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So sorry about your friends with cancer diagnosis. It seems to be a common feature of one’s late fifties. I’ve found that some appreciate help, while others prefer privacy. It’s so hard to know what to do.
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It is difficult to know what to do. Especially since I can relate to those who prefer privacy.
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