NOVEMBER 18, 2016COACHVICKYLEAVE A COMMENT

Richard and I had breakfast the other day at a local restaurant.  As we finished a long time, former neighbor joined us to chat.  We had not spoken nor seen each other since my surgery in July.

It is evident that I look different.  It is not just the weight loss but also my hair is still pretty buzzed and, frankly, I move a little slower immediately after a chemotherapy treatment.

She never once asked how we or I were doing.  Some people just do not know what to say, so they say nothing or just move on.

Here is another example.  We were meeting with a new realtor and she asked if we could meet on a specific date.  I replied no because I had chemotherapy on that date.  Her response was to offer the next date.  Did she really think I would enter a six-month contractual relationship with such a superficial response?  I found the exchange awkward.

I once heard a Breast Cancer Speaker say to expect some friends will drop out of your life when you have cancer or other life changing challenges without explanation because they do not know what to do or say.  I found that comment strange but I do understand it … now.

Leaders … say something.

• Be aware of what your reactions are to those around you.
• Know that your omission may be interpreted as not caring.
• Do something in your action. At least say, “Is everything OK?”  The other person has the option to continue the conversation or not.

People always remember how they feel in your presence. Say something and contribute to another’s life!

-VhS