M.D. Anderson Life Lessons

This time of year we all have many things to be thankful for, and family usually tops the list.

I went to work at M.D. Anderson straight out of college. I was young, idealistic, and death seemed far away. But God used my time there to teach me some valuable life lessons.

I worked with in-patients; most of them at the end of their lives. As I talked to them, God used those conversations to teach me some important truths about life.

During my six years there, I never heard:

  • I wish I’d spent more time at the office.
  • I wish I’d met my goal to be CEO of my company.
  • I wish I”d earned enough to have a bigger house or a Mercedes.
  • I always wanted to travel to Europe.

I did hear:

  • I wish I’d spent more time with my kids when they were growing up.
  • I wish I’d shown my wife how much I loved her.
  • I wish I’d been closer to my parents.
  • I wish I’d focused less on my career and more on my family.

Yes, I am thankful for my family.

  • For a marriage that’s built on the Lord as our solid foundation.
  • For the strong love my husband and I share during the ups and downs of life.
  • My husband who’s been a wonderful provider and companion. 
  • My two daughters who’ve grown to be such wonderful, responsible young ladies.
  • My two grandchildren who are my pride and joy. 
  • And, as silly as it sounds, the greyhounds who have shown me unconditional love.

And I am thankful for each of you. Without you, I would have thrown in the towel years ago! You are my friends – you encourage me, hold me accountable, and pray for me.

My prayers to you and your families and to all who are precious to you.

Photo credit: Gratitude via Creative Commons

Get in on the conversation

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

2 Comments

    The Conversation

  1. It's nice to hear what you're grateful for, Sherry, and to remember what matters most in life – people! The people at M.D. Anderson wished they had spent more time with people. Definitely something to remember to do. I hope you and your family had a great Thanksgiving!

  2. Sorry I didn't see your comment earlier, Katy. It's been crazy the last few days. I learned many valuable lessons at M.D. Anderson.
    We had a great Thanksgiving – time with family and close friends. I hope you had a great day, too.