Being in the Present Moment With Multiple Myeloma

Ronald Chin received a diagnosis of multiple myeloma in January 2017 and has been in remission since October 2023. Catch up on all of Ronald's blogs here!

I take memoir writing classes to enhance my storytelling abilities, seeking to infuse my narratives with depth and emotion. In our most recent session, our group was presented with a unique challenge: to weave a tale using six evocative words as prompts. These words — mountain, curtains, finger, surprises, allowing, and bread — served as the foundation for my narrative.

What follows is the result of this creative exercise, inspired by a pivotal moment in my life. It recounts the time when I was first diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a diagnosis that felt like a dark cloud looming over me. Despite the weight of this revelation, I was determined to visit our newly leased office space — a charming third-floor walk-up. We had just signed a two-year lease, and it seemed fitting to bless the space with positivity and hope.

Here is my story:

I continued my journey up the mountain to my office sanctuary. The sun slowly set, casting a warm orange glow over the rocky terrain. My saffron robes were like curtains billowing in the breeze. As I ascended higher, the air grew thinner, and my breaths became more profound. Yet, I felt no fatigue. Instead, I was filled with peace and purpose, knowing I was nearing my spiritual home. My heartbeat steadily in my chest, like the rhythmic drumbeats of a distant ritual.

I could see my temple in the distance, its golden spires reaching towards the heavens. It was a sight that never failed to bring tears to my eyes.

As I approached the gates, I felt a sense of familiarity and comfort wash over me. This was where I belonged, where I had found my true calling. I walked through the carved archway and entered the courtyard. The quietness of the temple enveloped me, a soothing balm for my soul. I walked into my mancave. My heart overflowing with gratitude and reverence.

This was my sanctuary, my refuge from the chaos of the outside world.

As I descended from the mountain, I couldn't help but think about the wonders of technology. My finger glided effortlessly over my iPhone screen, tapping and swiping to share the delightful surprises that unfolded along my route.

I captured photos of the majestic scenery, eager to share them with my friends and family through social media. The thought of instantly connecting with loved ones from anywhere in the world still amazed me.

But as much as I appreciated technology, I also treasured the moments of solitude and reflection that came with disconnecting from it. The peacefulness of the mountain allowed me to fully immerse myself in my surroundings and connect with my inner self.

As I continued my journey, I couldn't help but wonder how different life would be without all these modern conveniences. Would we appreciate nature as much? Would we have more time for introspection and self-discovery?

But then again, technology was another form of spirituality for some. It connected us with others, provided us with endless information, and even helped us navigate our spiritual paths.

I smiled as I thought about how I allowed this technological device in my hand had become a tool for both sharing and experiencing moments of enlightenment. And as long as it didn't consume me completely, I was grateful for its existence.

I am focused on my journey, and my purpose is to experience the present moment fully. With each breath I take, I let go of any worries or distractions that may try to pull me away from this peaceful state.

As I reach a particularly level stretch of the path, I pause to eat some homemade bread. Looking down at my phone, I see notifications from various social media platforms. But instead of being tempted to check them, I simply acknowledge them and let them go.

There is no need for constant connection in this serene environment, where even technology seems to blend in with nature's beauty. Instead, I connect with myself — my thoughts, feelings, and surroundings — in a way that feels much more meaningful.

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