The Fortress

The Fortress

Well, I have many tales left to tell about my trip to the Caribbean and the West Indies, but all of those have paled in comparison to the importance of our current situation.

Upon returning from my cruise, darling daughter, Dea, let me know that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer.  Immediately upon hearing the news, a magical phenomenon occurred.  Within moments, the walls of an impenetrable fortress started forming around Dea, the great stones rotating into alignment and slotting into place, as each one of our family and dearest friends heard the news and started to take action.  Nearly instantaneously, the initial fortress was built, and as the days go by before her treatment begins, it is becoming a sacred place in which she can live comfortably, safely, and protected by all of us to conquer this icky disease.  I’m beyond proud of this amazing village.

I have also had the honor to have occupied this protected space in the fortress, and I tell you, it is a beautiful feeling.  Knowing that within the walls of the fortress, when you are at your most vulnerable and broken, where you can howl at the moon, weep, wail, sing, laugh, dance, cry – and all will be held within, never to be flaunted or shared, is magical.  You can go through life-changing growth and pain, heal and regain strength in safety.

I’m beyond grateful that she and her beloved have spent the last several days with me in New Jersey – in The Sanctuary (the name of my home). They flew out the day after hearing the news.  Spending time with them together is showing me that she is in good hands, she is loved and safe. I’ve also seen her vulnerable side, the side which is scared and spooked, and afraid of what will happen once she starts undergoing treatment.  I love that side of her, my sweet little baby girl.  And then, in the blink of an eye, my baby is replaced by the warrior, who is ready to fight.  I love her too.

She will be just fine, my brave, strong girl.  She is already nesting inside her fortress, making plans, getting her duckies in a row, learning what to expect, and wearing a brave face.  She is Strong Like Ox, and she will fight this, with all of us fighting alongside her.  Always.