Ring The Bell EVERY DAY!
“You should always celebrate your successes because someone else will celebrate your failures.”
- Neil Tennant
One of my best friends, Kevin, was diagnosed with cancer a while back. Recently, he finished his treatment and rang the bell, which signified the end of his treatment.
I'll give you a little background for those who don’t know what “ringing the bell” means.
At many cancer treatment facilities, a simple but very powerful tradition marks a pivotal moment in a patient’s journey: ringing the bell at the end of treatment. This act signifies more than just the conclusion of chemotherapy; it embodies relief from daily struggles, an accomplishment against overwhelming odds, a tribute to all those who gave their energy and support, and hope for the future.
Kevin sent me a picture of him ringing the bell. That was a great moment. I sent him a message a week later asking “if he had rung his bell yet.” He responded that he had already rung the bell and reminded me that he had sent me the picture. I said, “I remember, but did you ring your bell for today?” It took a minute, but he finally understood my meaning.
I was looking at the act of “ringing the bell” in a broader sense. What if everyone learned to ring their own bells in life, celebrating personal victories and milestones?
Relief: The Weight Lifted
I felt a huge sense of relief when I finished my cancer treatment. The daily grind of chemotherapy and then radiation for days and weeks often involved physical discomfort and pain, emotional fatigue, and constant uncertainty. There wasn’t a bell for me to ring, but when I watch other people working through this part of their battle with cancer, it serves as a powerful moment.
In our everyday lives, we also face challenges that can feel insurmountable. Whether it's overcoming a personal setback, achieving a long-sought goal, or simply getting through tough times, recognizing these moments of relief is vital. Just as cancer survivors find solace in that triumphant chime, we too should celebrate our achievements—big or small—with our own bells. This could be as simple as treating ourselves after finishing a demanding project or acknowledging progress in our personal growth journeys.
Accomplishment: Celebrating Victories
Ringing the bell is not just about marking an end; it’s about celebrating an incredible journey filled with perseverance and resilience. Every ring symbolizes a battle fought—a confrontation with fear many would avoid at all costs. It is an acknowledgment of strength against adversity.
We all encounter moments in life when we must gather all our courage to face challenges. Whether completing an arduous task, launching a new business venture, or overcoming personal struggles, recognizing these accomplishments builds confidence and resets our personal narrative. Like those who ring their bells in celebration at cancer facilities, we should acknowledge our victories. You don’t have to ring a bell; you can create rituals highlighting your achievements.
Here are a few things that I do:
· Write about the experience: I find it very cathartic to write down the good (and the bad) I work through to understand them more deeply.
· Go out to dinner: Celebrating with friends and family helps to share the joy.
· Find Perspective: Understand the gift of your unconquerable soul.
Support: Acknowledging Our Quarters
The act of ringing the bell is not done in isolation; it acknowledges the immense support from family and friends throughout treatment. Those who are along with you on this journey provide encouragement during difficult times and celebrate alongside patients when they achieve this monumental milestone.
Having a strong support system is crucial in life's journey. Recognizing those who stand by us, our home team is essential during tough times during celebrations. They are also going through their struggles dealing with those who need their support. The time and emotional roller coaster are nearly as bad on them. We can appreciate their contributions by inviting them to our victory celebrations. Share your triumphs with those who have supported you; let them know how much their presence has meant to you on your journey.
Hope: So, Now What?
Perhaps most importantly, ringing the bell symbolizes hope—a promise of brighter days. For cancer survivors, this moment builds optimism for a future free from illness and filled with possibilities. It reminds us all that while darkness may be all we can see at times, light can always be found on the other side.
Cultivating hope is essential for resilience and forward movement in our lives outside of medical challenges. Whenever we face setbacks and hard times, remember that every ending opens up new beginnings. Know that things will improve, set new goals that reflect your dreams, get back to chasing your passion, and ring your bell when you achieve them!
Moving Forward
Ringing the bell at the end of cancer treatment highlights several ideas—relief from struggle, celebration of accomplishments, acknowledgment of support systems, and hope for what lies ahead. By recognizing these principles in our everyday lives, we can learn to ring our bells more often—not just during the end of a venture but whenever we make strides toward growth and resilience.
Take some time today and think about what bells you can ring! Celebrate your victories, big and small; acknowledge those who support you along your journey; find the good in the days ahead! Remember—the sound of your bell is waiting to echo through your life’s narrative—make sure it rings loud!
Have an amazing day!
