I just read John Smith’s blog on living with cancer entitled “Back to the Future.” As with most poetics written by cancer patients or patients challenged with disease, this one is about life and love, compassion and a granddaughter “marching confidently into the future.” 

John has lived with multiple myeloma for eight years since diagnosis, and shares his trials and tribulations with the latest wonder drugs: the effects of neurotoxins, the “blunt club” of alkylating chemo and the brain scrambling that comes with steroids. 

John also shares his beautiful poetry and the wise words of others, including Lao Tzu, the Eastern Philosopher and father of Taoism. Just remain in the center, watching. And then forget that you are there. 

In a time when everyone seems to be using the word “mindful,” this quote from Tzu is particularly brilliant, since he lived during the sixth century B.C. 

I have met John Smith and read his blog to find out how he is doing, as well as to be inspired. For more information on living with multiple myeloma and living a “mindful” life, please visit John’s blog https://goodbloodbadblood.wordpress.com/