Step 7: Examine the Meaning of Your Illness
Everyone, in their heart of hearts has a belief about their illness. . .
about a purpose or meaning of illness. By looking at the meaning or symbolism
of illness, you can gain valuable information that you won't otherwise have
access to.
Focus your attention on your illness. Concentrate on the thoughts, emotions
and physical sensations. Now allow an image to emerge that represents the
entire experience of cancer. Your image is a symbol, unique to you. It may
be real or abstract, alive or inanimate, liquid or solid, etc. Your unconscious
mind will show you the symbol that is perfect for you.
Here are some examples of symbolic images of cancer from some cancer patients:
"a big spider across my chest," "a lady in black," "a
smoky energy running through me," "an eagle." Once you are aware
of your symbol of cancer, you will have a much better idea how the entire
experience of cancer fits into your life as a whole.
