One Day at a Time

Our friend Tony had cancer from the first time we met him. He was a remarkable man, an expert in agriculture, a bull rider in his youth, and a faithful member of a 12-step recovery group. His favorite slogan, which I heard him say every time I was with him, was "One day at a time."

When his cancer recurred and radiation was required, he said, "It's one day at a time." When hip surgery was needed so that he could tour Europe with his wife and grandchildren, he said, "It's one day at a time." When chemo was administered, he said, "It's one day at a time." Then when other surgery was performed, he said, "It's one day at a time." When he had to walk with a cane, he said, "It's one day at a time." And when he had to be pushed in a wheelchair. . . .

Five months before he died, Tony and his wife Andra hosted a "gratitude party," to express their appreciation for the love and support of friends and family. 

The last time my husband and I spoke with him, two days before he died, he said, "I've come to the end of the road." There was no trace of resentment in his voice. It was simple acceptance.

Never resentment. No anger. His soul was clear. He had lived life on life's terms, one day at a time.