To the End & Back

The best thing about RE-reading a book is, the 'digging' ~ deepening part,  which comes after I have internalized the message the author wishes to convey and how it relates to my own life.

It felt like I just had a conversation with a good friend after I first read this book by my favorite street photographer, blogger and cancer survivor, Aaron Offord. 

I haven't visited him for a long time since I reposed from the social media sites, but I immediately took the opportunity to 'know' how he was doing after his transplant by reflecting on his book.

I took off my sandals as I entered his sacred space which he graciously shares with everybody.

He is, first of all, my friend. He has inspired me in many ways from the time I met him in 2011 through his blog Aaron Outward,  until now as I journey through his transition to a 'healed' Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia survivor.

It struck me that the book pulsates LIFE. As I read his story, he was 'blessing' me all throughout with his words. 

I highlighted several remarkable quotes in his book:

"The leukemia was just a part of my story, the real story is 

my journey in its entirety." (3)

"The only difference between a cancer diagnosis and any other challenge  in life is 

the topic of mortality." (7)

"Don't wait until a tragedy to make changes in your life... 

make your changes now." (12)

I chose them because they speak volumes. There are several others you could find in the book.

His life was filled with the 4 P's of Positivity (on p.28-):

Peace-Perspective-Passion-Purpose

His question reverberated my thoughts, "What is the purpose of my life?" (p.34) What am  I here for? 

I was bewildered at that part where Aaron wrote, "Who says we can't joke about cancer?" (p.7) I remembered an old acquaintance whom I met in the office. We didn't know how else to approach him when he was diagnosed of prostatic cancer. He warded off any greetings from us. Aaron threw me off with the perspective of a celebration when his hair was shaved off. 

I was amazed by his reactions ~ they were altogether human, emotionally inclined, and yet I sense that 'strong spirit' that thrives in him. He always had a 'goal' in mind.  Find out how his Mathematics Magic (p.36-37) works.

I acquiesce that 'you can't force anything' (p.34). He referred to momentary blocks that we encounter. I reflected on growth.  His solution: take that proverbial nap. This reminded me so much of Elijah when he fled to Horeb (1 Kings 19:1-5 NIV).

It is very edifying how he is always 'moved' to 'create' and take up 'new' hobbies in between. 

And finally, he led me to be more grateful to LIFE, for all that is.

There are so much more to share and say about this book. It speaks of faith, courage, hope, determination, grace... experiences, life lessons, personal freedom... the rest I leave up to you to add when you read this book.  

And hopefully, we could enrich each other with your own experiences as well. It is a book for everybody.

'To the End & Back' is a gift I'll treasure. 

My reflections did not end when I closed the book...  I opened my windows and breathed the opportunity that awaits me to live a better life.

The book is available at Aaron's blog, Aaron Outward: To the End and Back (ebook). 

To AARON OFFORD, dear friend, THANK YOU SO MUCH! 

*Aaron, it is great to be surrounded by 'loving' people. I admire them for being with you all throughout your journey. And I admire you for your openness and that capacity to embrace the challenge that was given you. God bless always!

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Blogs:      Aaron Outward

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FB page: Aaron Offord Photography

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