something like, "I like your bright red blouse." or " It sure is hot today.", or just about anything but, "Oh my gosh, you look like *Hades*!"

That's a lot different from, "I noticed you're not feeling well, is there anything you need from the store or the pharmacy?"

This is true when we're having problems with our mental health issues as well as physical issues. If people would just remember to find some small thing to compliment someone who's sick, or even if they can't think of anything positive to say, say nothing.

I just finished talking to a well meaning, dear friend who told me not to be shocked if, (and I quote), "you're eaten up by cancer". Well, I sure feel good now! That surely gave me hope! (I hope you can hear the sarcasm dripping.)

Actually, I do feel a lot better than this morning, and I've worked my way back around to a decent mood, but I can't tell you the many people who've commented on how sick I look right now. Well meaning? Yes. Helping? No.

One day I was walking down the hallway in the hospital where the seats are placed for cancer patients waiting for radiation therapy. A little elderly lady was sitting there, all alone. She looked so sad that I sat down beside her and we had a really good time laughing and talking. We cheered each other up so that we both had a better day. Her husband was the one who was sick, and when he came out, she met him with a smile. It was so beautiful to watch.

I wish people irl would be as kind, cheering and compassionate as the members here at PC. There is so much love and support here. Sometimes it's easy to take it for granted, but it's so special.

Cheers,

Jan