We Can Do Hard Things 56. What to Do with Our Short, Precious Life with Kate Bowler
Dec 28, 2021
Kate Bowler, a New York Times bestselling author and professor at Duke University, shares her profound insights on life and mortality following her Stage IV cancer diagnosis. She emphasizes the need to discard toxic positivity phrases like 'Everything is possible' in favor of realistic coping. Kate finds joy in the holidays even amidst grief, and humorously discusses how swearing can reflect our true feelings. Together, they explore the importance of embracing both joy and sorrow, and building genuine connections in the face of life's uncertainties.
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Dismissed Pain
- Kate Bowler was repeatedly dismissed by doctors who attributed her physical pain to psychological issues.
- She was only taken seriously after demanding a scan, which revealed stage four cancer.
Love Near Death
- Nearing death can evoke a feeling of overwhelming love, not anger or fear.
- Kate Bowler felt this after her diagnosis, mirroring findings from a near-death experience study.
Don't Skip the End
- Kate sought advice from older colleagues, asking about life's benchmarks and meaning.
- Her friend advised her not to "skip to the end," emphasizing that there's no ultimate arrival or fulfillment.
