While watching, the thought kept going through my head about strong people becoming stronger. What really makes the difference between those that shrink from their difficulties, get angry and even blame others for their lot in life while others grow stronger, more loving, happier. Coach Pagano is one of those that became stronger and even motivated others around him in the process.
From Wikipedia...
Pagano was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia[4] in September 2012, and took an indefinite leave of absence of his coaching duties. He then underwent three months of treatment at the IU Simon Cancer Center in Indianapolis.[5] On November 5, doctors announced that Pagano's cancer is in remission. To support Pagano, two dozen of the Colts' players,[6] and two of their cheerleaders,[7] shaved their heads as part of a movement to support Pagano known as "CHUCKSTRONG". Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians led the Colts during the next 12 games. Pagano returned to his head coaching duties on December 24, 2012
Keeping the light on. That's a big key in the fight, whatever that fight may be. It was a friend and fellow coach who had the idea to keep Pagano's office light on while he was away but it was only an example of the light Pagano himself was keeping on. He wasn't going to give up and let cancer win. He had daughters weddings to dance at and trophies to win with his team. There was reason for him to live.
I've seen some give up those things most important because they were offended by someone or because life just wasn't fair, or what ever the reason. They just didn't keep the light on.
To me, keeping the light on isn't about living at all costs. It's about living for the right reasons even if that means dying. Having had doctors tell me that I had limited time to live gave so much clarity to life. Dying wasn't the worst thing that could happen. For me, life is about securing what was most important, despite how tough or unfair it may seem.
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I believe that through sacred covenants, or promises made with God, I can be with my husband and my children for eternity. Jesus Christ made it all possible through His perfect life, suffering for our sins, death on the cross, and His glorious resurrection. That is the light I keep on. It is a choice, one I hold to with all I have.
What light do you keep on?
