Fast forward to Svensedammen and the first Aktiv for Andre class that Silje, Harald and I had the privilege of leading for three years. Nora Kaalstad was the star of that class, and when I led our Artifact Share (which I brought with me from Berkeley) on a hike in their first week of 8th grade she broke down in tears as she told us what it had been like to witness her mother get sick from - and survive - cancer. Three years later, at graduation, she and her navnesøster (Nora Evertsen) gave the valedictorian speech and moved the crowd, and the principal, to tears.
I've often wondered what it takes to create such emotional intelligence, such big-heartedness, such capacity for empathy, in teenagers. I've even joked with Anette that maybe a child experiencing a parent's cancer is what it takes, so Sunniva and Johannes will definitely turn out to be extraordinary people. Last week Sunniva came with us to the hospital and the radiation team were wonderful in including her and showing her how they're helping me. Norwegians are excellent at putting children first, meeting them on their terms, and we had prepared her beforehand by reading a children's book called De Gode Strålene, with kid-friendly illustrations.
She and Johannes are now in their third day of barnehage, and his adjustment is going very smoothly. Sunniva thinks it's wonderful to have her little brother there with her now, and proudly shouts out to all her friends whenever they meet each other on the playground. Anette and I are very grateful for the barnehage's support, and our parents', in helping us get through these six weeks of treatment. Mormor is going to drive me to the hospital for my final dose of radiation today, and then Anette and I are going out to dinner tomorrow night to celebrate our eight-year wedding anniversary. Fifteen years together, hopefully thirty more to come.
Celebrate we will
For life is short but sweet for certain
Hey! we climb on two by two
To be sure these days continue
