Finding Gratitude Among Lemons

“Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation.” Brian Tracy

This weekend brings two events that hit personally with me, Mother’s Day and Relay for Life. Almost two years ago, I lost my mother to a battle with cancer.

This weekend from 9 a.m. May 11 to 9 a.m. May 12 is the Foothills Relay for Life that benefits the American Cancer Society.

I think about my mother almost every day, and on this Sunday I will hug my daughter a little tighter and give thanks for the wonderful people still in my life. I also give thanks to all those that spend 24 hours this weekend walking to fight cancer.  Foothills Relay For Life helps the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving mission by fighting back against a disease that has already taken too much. All monies collected help the American Cancer Society fund groundbreaking cancer research, provide up-to-date cancer information, advocate for all people to have access to screening and treatment, and offer free programs and services to improve the quality of life for people facing cancer. By being a part of Relay, you are joining a worldwide movement to help defeat cancer for future generations. Foothills Relay For Life is held at Clark Magnet High School and you can find information at foothillsrelayforlife.com. Their motto: Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back!

My mom, Carol Joy, always celebrated life and always taught me the power of positive thinking, happiness and gratitude! Growing up, my mom had a plaque in the kitchen that read, “If life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” My mom was given one of the ugliest “lemons” life can throw at you … cancer. And through multiple surgeries, devastating chemotherapy, immense radiation and more needles than any one person should have to endure … there was my mom, Carol Joy, with a smile on her face, still with an attitude of gratitude. Even after brain surgery in the hospital, I would ask her, “How are you doing, Mom?” and her response, with a smile, was “I am fine, how are you doing?”

A smile and a positive attitude can turn your day and many other people’s day into a great one. Strive to develop an attitude of gratitude and give thanks for everything that happens to you. Everything happens for a reason. My mom’s ugly cancer might have happened to remind me every day to be grateful.

Important dates:  May 11-12 – Relay For Life; June 10 – CV Chamber business mixer at Caspian Services.

Please contact our office for more details on any event. How to reach us: (818) 248-4957/ crescentachamber@aol.com / www.LaCrescenta.org / 3131 Foothill Blvd., Ste. D.

  julia rabago