Pamela S

My late sister Pam Summerhayes was and will always be the greatest heroine of my life. Her 26 year battle with Cystic Fibrosis was extraordinary to witness and be part of. Here is part of her legacy to me and the world:

THE FIVE PILLARS OF PAM’S LEGACY

WE CAN’T CONTROL LIFE BY BEING AFRAID OF IT
So often we make our decisions from a place of fear. Fear separates us from our abilities. It does not protect us, nor will it alter an outcome. Being afraid is natural, but acting out of fear is not the same as using your survival instinct. When we choose to move forward despite our fear, our abilities are empowered, our faith is restored, and our hopes are renewed.

THE ONLY TRUE POWER WE HAVE IS THE POWER TO CHOOSE
When we cannot change what life sets before us we are challenged to change ourselves. Remember that we are defined by our possibilities, not our circumstances. At any given moment we can choose despair or hope, revenge or forgiveness, fear or faith. The choice is always ours to make, and therein lies our power.

JOY IS POSSIBLE EVERY DAY – NO MATTER WHAT
No matter what our circumstances, if we take the chance and opportunity of seeking out beauty in the world around us, there are moments in every day that can be treasured. These moments of joy may be small, but they are powerful. If you can’t find the beauty and joy in your day, create it.

THERE’S A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GIVING UP AND SURRENDER
Giving up is an act of anger or despair. It implies there’s still some fight left, some unfinished business to complete. Surrender is a release, a letting go. There is peace and contentment in knowing there is nothing more to give, or receive. Surrender can only be accomplished with forgiveness and love.

NEVER GIVE UP!
Become a Warrior on behalf of your own life!

Copyright 2008 Heather Summerhayes Cariou
Sixtyfive Roses: A Sister’s Memoir
www.sixtyfiverosesthebook. com

Submitted by Anonymous


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