A Pantera shot just before sunset on Hutchinson Island. Photo by D. Paul Graham, “Golden Pantera”, circa 2016

“Monday 5 Things”™ ….. The “c” Word…..

Heaven’s car and track club got a new member last week. He was one of those people that had an electric smile, an over-the-top personality, and an even larger heart. The car community is a small world and last week cancer took one of the most enthusiastic ‘petrol heads’ that was known by anyone who shares a common passion for automotive design and speed. We have all been touched by, mourned over, been frightened by, and have felt anger by cancer. Far too many Grahams have faced the “c” word as I know your family and friends have as well. We have all known those that fought hard against it, those that refused to be identified with it, and those that maintained a positive attitude throughout their treatment. I don’t know the name of the author, but there is a short poem entitled “What Cancer Can’t Do.”  Walking along the river last night, I recalled the poem which inspired this morning’s M5T.

1. SMILES. Cancer can’t erase the memory of a genuine smile of someone we loved that is indelibly etched into our minds eye. Cancer can’t take away the ability to find joy in smallest of moments.

2. FRIENDSHIPS. Cancer can’t destroy a friendship. Cancer can’t diminish the impact and importance of positive memories. Cancer can’t erase the legacy and contributions that a person has made to their family, friends, and social circles.

3. SPIRIT. Cancer can’t mute the spirit of courage of a man, a woman, or a child. Cancer can’t take away the ability to laugh through adversity, nor can it take away the inner strength that is found when navigating through difficult times.

4. LOVE. Cancer can’t lessen the love and emotions that we feel for family and friends.

5. GOD. Cancer can’t change God’s plan for our lives, no matter how long or short our time on this side of eternity may be.

Michael Shortt, you impacted our lives with your passion, competitiveness, and zeal for cars and life. Your checkered flag may have dropped here on earth, but your heavenly green flag has been raised, waving you into eternity.

Here’s to keeping Joni Shortt in our prayers and to being reminded of the power of living a full life.

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For over 12 years, D. Paul Graham has published “Monday 5 Things” ™, also known to readers as M5T™.

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