What Breast Cancer Taught Me About Art: Embrace Courage and Break the Norms When Possible

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My sister-in-law and a friend decided to join me for one of those trendy paint nights at a charming little art studio. You know the kind—an instructor guides everyone through a painting step by step, and by the end of the night, the entire class has produced a nearly identical piece of art. Mostly women gather there, sipping on wine, as they attempt to mimic the instructor’s brushwork.

As I glanced around, I noticed how meticulously everyone was trying to follow the guidelines. My sister-in-law’s and friend’s paintings were coming along beautifully. They had patience, skill, and a sprinkle of natural talent.

Then, something shifted in me. I suddenly felt a surge of defiance. Could I really break free from the rules? Smear my paint and start anew? Create my own interpretation of a tree? As someone who typically plays by the rules, this was a daunting thought. I swished my brush back and forth, mixing colors into a deep shade of black. Oh no. I caught the instructor casting a sideways glance at me.

But once I got past the initial panic of my artistic rebellion, a wave of relaxation washed over me. No one was kicking me out! I dove into my creative chaos and ended up with a dark sky—complete with stars and inexplicably, a sun—above a bare tree, with the words: “Be you.”

Now, this painting feels like a prophetic message. Am I losing it? Maybe. But I can’t shake the feeling that the tree represents me—post-chemo, stripped bare of everything, standing vulnerable against a dark sky. And that sun? It’s the glimmer of hope shining through the night. It’s a paradox, and yet, it makes perfect sense. Life has a funny way of presenting contradictions.

As October rolls in, I find myself grappling with a light sadness—not the heavy kind, more like a gentle breeze of nostalgia. I watch the trees surrendering their leaves, dancing gracefully to the ground, signaling change. This season, forever intertwined with memories of my cancer journey, also brings Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with pink ribbons popping up everywhere—even on my cereal box.

Yet this painting serves as a reminder that there’s always a “before.” We never know when life will take an unexpected turn. So be bold. Step outside the lines when you can. Listen to that little inner voice encouraging you to embrace your true self. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to do those monthly self-checks and schedule those mammograms.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For more information, check out The National Breast Cancer Foundation. And if you’re curious about starting a family, be sure to visit this insightful resource on home insemination.

In summary, my journey through art and breast cancer taught me the importance of courage in creativity and life. Embrace your uniqueness, and don’t hesitate to break the rules when it feels right.