We spend most of our lives building toward something.
Whether that’s a future we can picture, a timeline we trust, a sense that if we show up fully and do the work, life will meet us where we're headed.
Most of us don't realize how much of ourselves we've built around that belief until the moment it's taken away.
I recently sat down with Bridget Bahl when she described the instant her life divided into before a cancer diagnosis and after. She was in a radiology office, mid-fertility treatment, her future already in motion, when she looked up and asked the only question that actually mattered to her at the time.
What followed was a complete dismantling of the self she had carefully constructed, one built on independence, self-sufficiency, and the conviction that she could carry life well enough not to need too much from anyone else.
Cancer asked her to let go of all of it.
What stayed with me most from our conversation was how she has learned to hold hope, not as certainty, but as a choice made without guarantees.
Bridget's story is one of the most honest and courageous I've had the privilege of sitting with. If you've ever found yourself holding more than you know how to carry, her words will reach you in a way that's hard to prepare for.
April's issue of On Purpose Magazine is available now.
Do you find it easy to ask for support?
The content in this newsletter is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as, and must not be taken as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing in this newsletter creates, or is intended to create, a physician–patient or other healthcare professional–patient relationship. You should always consult a qualified physician or other licensed healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition, your health, or any treatment options, and before starting, changing, or stopping any medication, treatment, or wellness program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this newsletter.
This AI experience generates responses based on training and prompting informed by Jay Shetty’s teachings, themes, and wisdom. It is provided for entertainment purposes only. It does not represent Jay Shetty as a person, does not create a coaching, therapy, doctor-patient, fiduciary, or other professional relationship, and is not a live human service. AI-generated content can be incomplete, misleading, or inaccurate, and may not reflect your circumstances. You should not rely on this experience as a substitute for professional medical care, mental health care, diagnosis, therapy, treatment, legal advice, tax advice, financial advice, or crisis intervention. Never use this service in an emergency or where someone’s safety may be at risk.
