It felt like I just had a conversation with a good friend after reading this book by my favorite street photographer, blogger and cancer survivor, Aaron Offord.
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, all the while, as I read his story, he was 'blessing' me with his words.
His life was filled with the 4 P's of Positivity (on p.28-):
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) Why am I here for? For what?
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 courage, hope, determination, grace... experiences, life lessons, personal freedom... the rest I leave 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.
To AARON OFFORD, THANK YOU VERY MUCH! ( *Note: Link to be Added )
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Blogs: Aaron Outward
FB page: Aaron Offord Photography
Twitter: @AaronOutward