I finally get it! I really do believe I know how Santa feels just before Christmas Eve. He’s up there at the North Pole, co-ordinating the elves, sorting out presents, checking lists, keeping an eye on the naughty and nice, grumbling a bit and having a little rant now and again as he wonders if the plan is ever going to come together by the deadline.
Let me explain. The Supershoes office is moving, and I’m very aware that my brain is reaching capacity. There seems to be a million things to sort out. Some jobs need to be done in a specific order, and in the middle of that order, there’s an occasional “rogue elf” that chucks in some unforeseen glitch, as if to test me. It’s all rather stressful, although I know the end result will be worth it, and I have the most amazing team around me, ready, willing and more than able to help and support me. I’m really looking forward to our lovely, big office; it’s just that the getting there feels like a mountain to climb at the moment.
And then I remember. I remember why I’m doing this. I remember the families I’m in contact with on a daily basis. They are dealing with challenges that make mine look trivial in comparison, but it helps me relate to what they must be going through, and what they need.
When a child receives the devastating diagnosis of cancer, their life, and that of their family is turned upside down. There’s suddenly a whole world of arrangements to make, unexpected challenges, appointments, and emotional fallout that’s very unpredictable: who, when, how? Like all of us, these families need help, support and the occasional boost that makes everyone smile. A pair of Supershoes certainly ticks one of those boxes, as we’re always being told.
Life in the Supershoes office may be chaotic at the moment, but I know that by Christmas, it will be sorted (or almost!) and that life will get back to normal fairly fast. For children with cancer, “getting back to normal” is far less predictable. Treatment takes years, and with check-ups, often a lifetime.
So if you find yourself feeling a little overwhelmed at Christmas this year, imagine walking a mile in a Super brave child’s (Super)shoes. This is what I’m doing to get things into perspective, when I feel at capacity. I can switch off when I want to, or when others remind me to. It’s not that easy for everyone.
Wishing you all a very peaceful Christmas and may the New Year bring you happiness.
With peace, love and gratitude
Sarah x